Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Aflion Windy Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique typing experiences. The Cream switches from Kailh are recognized for their heftier linear feel and deep sound profile, providing a textured and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow switches from Aflion offer a more neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from their extended spring, providing a mild and comfortable typing experience at a 55g bottom-out. While both switches have their own advantages, such as the Cream switches for their buttery feel and the Windy Shadow switches for their medium-light touch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing the best switch for your needs. 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
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
Both the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Aflion Windy Shadow have unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Kailh NovelKeys Cream features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Aflion Windy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate material used in the Windy Shadow's housing leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in sound can be attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound compared to POM.
In terms of the bottom housing, the NovelKeys Cream uses a POM material, similar to its top housing, while the Aflion Windy Shadow utilizes a nylon bottom housing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Windy Shadow contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This contrast between the two housing materials showcases how different materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
When comparing the overall qualities of the housing materials used in the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Aflion Windy Shadow, it is evident that each material brings unique characteristics to the switches. While the POM housing in the NovelKeys Cream creates a more subdued sound profile, the polycarbonate housing in the Windy Shadow produces a sharper and crisper sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing in the Windy Shadow offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the NovelKeys Cream. Overall, both switches offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences due to the differences in their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences. The NovelKeys Cream has a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams and a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing for extended periods of time. Both switches offer unique advantages based on individual preferences, with the NovelKeys Cream being the heavier option and the Windy Shadow being the lighter one. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on whether one values a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Gamers may prefer the Windy Shadow switch for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the NovelKeys Cream switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, with the Cream switch providing a more traditional and deeper key press, while the Windy Shadow switch offers a quicker and more responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Cream for $6.25.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Cream offers a low-pitched and resonant typing experience, providing a deep and immersive auditory sensation. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow delivers a neutral and low-pitched sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users with its moderate tone. Both switches offer a pleasant typing sound, but the Cream has a slightly deeper tone compared to the Windy Shadow.
In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Cream provides a buttery and invigorating typing experience, with smooth and uniform key presses that offer a satisfying feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow offers a mild typing experience, with gentle characteristics that are approachable to most users. While the Cream switch focuses on providing a more pronounced and textured feel, the Windy Shadow aims for a smoother and milder typing sensation.
Taking into consideration the sound profiles and typing experiences of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and Aflion Windy Shadow switches, both options offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cream switch provides a deeper sound and more invigorating feel, ideal for those who prefer a heavier and textured typing experience. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow switch offers a neutral sound and mild feel, making it suitable for a wider audience looking for a smoother and gentler typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for sound and feel, ensuring that you get the best mechanical keyboard switch that suits your typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a deep sound profile, the NovelKeys Cream is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce, the Aflion Windy Shadow would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you find most comfortable and enjoyable.
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