Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Silent Red and Aflion Windy Shadow both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The MX Silent Red is a linear switch that is best known for its silent operation, providing a quieter typing experience compared to its MX Red counterpart. With characteristics like being 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', this switch is ideal for those in noise-sensitive environments who still want a satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow is a linear switch that offers a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring mechanism. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', these switches have a comfortable 55g bottom-out weight, making them suitable for users who prefer a medium-light typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
One key difference between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Aflion Windy Shadow is the material used for their respective top housings. The MX Silent Red features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Windy Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The choice of material significantly affects the overall sound produced by each switch, with nylon providing a duller and rounder sound compared to the clear and resonant sound from polycarbonate.
While both the MX Silent Red and the Windy Shadow have nylon bottom housings, their top housings differ in material composition. Nylon bottom housings contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches due to the material's softer nature and sound absorption properties. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of each switch allows for different qualities to be felt and heard depending on whether the key is pressed down or released. This split design creates a unique experience for users in terms of sound and feel when typing on the switches.
In cases where the top and bottom housings of a switch are different, users can expect a combination of the qualities each housing material brings to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced during the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when a key is released. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly affect the typing experience for users, with nylon and polycarbonate offering distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback when used in combination for switches like the Cherry MX Silent Red and Aflion Windy Shadow.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, there are some distinct differences. The Cherry MX Silent Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to type quickly and lightly. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow has an unknown actuation force, but a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Both switches offer their own advantages; the MX Silent Red is preferable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while the Windy Shadow is ideal for users who prefer a more forceful keystroke for added feedback. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the perfect match for their typing style.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for gamers seeking faster response times. The Cherry MX Silent Red is the longer option, providing a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow offers a slightly quicker actuation due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 Cherry MX Silent Red offers a muted and thocky typing experience with a low-pitched tone, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards and providing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow features a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for a variety of applications. Ultimately, the MX Silent Red will provide a quieter typing experience, while the Windy Shadow will offer a more versatile sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red is known for its textured characteristics, providing a slightly heftier and scratchier typing experience compared to smoother switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow offers a mild typing experience, with a more gentle feel that falls into a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, but the MX Silent Red may appeal more to those who enjoy a textured feel while the Windy Shadow may be preferred by those looking for a smoother touch.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference. If a quieter typing experience is desired, the MX Silent Red is the way to go. On the other hand, if a more versatile sound profile and a gentle typing feel are preferred, the Windy Shadow would be the better option. Regardless of the choice made, both switches offer high-quality performance and a satisfying typing experience that will meet the needs of most users.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you are in a noise-sensitive environment and require a significantly quieter typing experience, the MX Silent Red would be the ideal choice with its muted and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce and medium-light bottom-out force, the Aflion Windy Shadow would suit your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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