KTT Miaowu vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the KTT Miaowu and the Aflion Windy Shadow, both linear switches. The Miaowu switch from KTT is known for its enhanced stem stability and smooth keystroke action, thanks to its POK stem. It is described as bouncy and clacky, offering a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches are popular for their neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce from the extended spring, providing a comfortable medium-light feel with a 55g bottom-out. Categorized as low-pitched, mild, and neutral, the Windy Shadow switches offer a different typing experience compared to the Miaowu. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Miaowu and the Aflion Windy Shadow, it is evident that both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for RGB lighting effects. However, the Miaowu and Windy Shadow differ when it comes to their nylon bottom housings. Nylon, as a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast in bottom housing material may result in a noticeable difference in the overall typing experience between the two keyboards.
Despite the similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the KTT Miaowu and the Aflion Windy Shadow offer distinct sound profiles due to their different bottom housing materials. While the Miaowu features a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and rounder sound, the Windy Shadow also uses nylon for similar acoustic qualities. These differences in bottom housing materials can impact the typing experience, as the bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. It's important to consider how the combination of different housing materials contributes to the overall sound and feel of each keyboard.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard. Both the KTT Miaowu and the Aflion Windy Shadow utilize polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting effects. However, their use of nylon bottom housings results in distinct sound characteristics, with the Miaowu offering a deeper sound profile compared to the Windy Shadow. Understanding the impact of different housing materials on sound quality can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for typing experience.
Weight
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Miaowu has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Windy Shadow's bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, which is ideal for those looking for a smoother typing feel. The Miaowu may be preferred for those who prefer a lighter actuation force, while the Windy Shadow may be favored by those who prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled. The similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of key press feel and feedback when using either switch. Therefore, there is no noticeable difference in travel distance between the two switches, making them equally suitable for users looking for a key switch with a 3.5 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
The Aflion Windy Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Windy Shadow for $3.91.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the KTT Miaowu switch offers a clacky typing experience, with sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for a variety of users. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preferences and setup.
In terms of feel, the KTT Miaowu switch is known for its bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that gives a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Meanwhile, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch offers a mild typing experience, with a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Miaowu offering a more vibrant and bouncy feel, while the Windy Shadow provides a softer and approachable typing feedback.
Overall, the KTT Miaowu and Aflion Windy Shadow switches offer unique characteristics in both sound and feel. While the Miaowu switch provides a clacky sound with a bouncy feel, the Windy Shadow switch offers a low-pitched and mild typing experience. Depending on individual preferences and typing style, users can choose between these switches to find the one that best suits their needs. With both switches falling into the linear category, users can expect similar results in terms of smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation, regardless of the specific sound and feel differences outlined.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider the nuances of each switch. Opt for the Miaowu if you prefer a lighter 50g bottom-out force, a clacky sound profile, and a bouncy feel thanks to its POK stem technology. On the other hand, go for the Aflion Windy Shadow if you prefer a slightly heavier 55g bottom-out force, a neutral and low-pitched sound profile, and a mild typing experience with a distinctive bounce from the extended spring. Ultimately, the choice between the Miaowu and Windy Shadow will depend on your personal preferences for key feel, sound profile, and bottom-out force, so choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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