Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch to the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is important to note that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The New North Pole V2 stands out for its polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience, made possible by the removal of the rubber dampener and the retention of its hallmark seamless glide. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow from Aflion boasts a low-pitched, mild, and neutral sound profile, coupled with a distinct bounce from its extended spring and a comfortable 55g bottom-out weight. While these general descriptions give a glimpse into the qualities of each switch, further exploration is needed to determine the best fit for individual preferences. 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The New North Pole V2 and the Aflion Windy Shadow both use polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. This material is known for being relatively stiffer, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. Despite both switches using the same material for their top housing, the individual design and construction may still give them unique sound qualities.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 is also made of polycarbonate, providing consistency in sound profiles between the top and bottom of the switch. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. This difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall sound experience of the switches, with the New North Pole V2 offering a sharper sound and the Windy Shadow providing a softer, more muted typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in the sound profile and feel of the typing experience. While both the New North Pole V2 and the Aflion Windy Shadow use polycarbonate for their top housing, they diverge in their bottom housing material, with the New North Pole V2 maintaining consistency with polycarbonate and the Windy Shadow opting for nylon. This difference results in distinct sound profiles, with the New North Pole V2 offering a sharper, more resonant sound and the Windy Shadow delivering a deeper, fuller sound. Ultimately, the selection of housing materials should align with the user's preferences for sound and aesthetic appeal when choosing a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, there are notable differences. The New North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. In contrast, the Windy Shadow has an unspecified actuation force, but a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, categorized as medium-light. The New North Pole V2 offers a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while the Windy Shadow is lighter and may be preferred for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier keystroke feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is clear that the New North Pole V2 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Windy Shadow's 3.5 mm. The New North Pole V2 offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Windy Shadow falls on the shorter end of the spectrum. Gamers may prefer the Windy Shadow for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial key press may opt for the New North Pole V2. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron New North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch offers a neutral and potentially low-pitched profile. This can result in a moderate sound level suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch is known for its low-pitched tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can cater to different preferences, with the Windy Shadows possibly having a slightly more distinct sound due to its extended spring.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is praised for its polished and creamy typing experience. This indicates a smooth and refined finish, potentially enhanced with factory lubrication. The frictionless typing feel of the New North Pole V2 can contribute to a seamless keystroke experience. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle ground. Both switches provide a comfortable typing feel, with the New North Pole V2 potentially having a slightly slicker and smoother key travel due to its polished nature.
Considering all the available information, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer unique qualities that can appeal to different preferences. While the New North Pole V2 focuses on a frictionless and polished typing experience with potentially neutral sound, the Windy Shadow highlights a low-pitched sound profile and a mild feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, regardless of which switch is chosen, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with smooth key travel and a comfortable level of sound.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider the bottom out force and the typing experience you prefer. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force at 62.5 grams and a polished, creamy, or frictionless feel, then the New North Pole V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force at 55 grams and a neutral sound profile with a mild feel, then the Aflion Windy Shadow could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so make your decision based on your personal typing style and preferences.
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