Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Oil King and the Aflion Windy Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are notable differences to consider. The Oil King is revered for its buttery smooth feel and dark chocolate-like sound profile, offering a blend of qualities such as being low-pitched, creamy, silky, and bassy. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow by Aflion stands out for its neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce from an extended spring, providing a comfortable medium-light bottom-out at 55g. While both switches have their own unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences, such as the Oil King's polished feel versus the Windy Shadow's mild and neutral sound, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing the best switch for your mechanical keyboard setup. 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
65g
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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King and the Aflion Windy Shadow have different housing materials for both the top and bottom parts of the switch. The Oil King utilizes nylon for its top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Windy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing that results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, the Windy Shadow's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile like its top housing.
Furthermore, the difference in materials used for the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Oil King and Aflion Windy Shadow impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Oil King's nylon top housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound when releasing the key, while the Windy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound upon key release. On the other hand, the bottom housing of each switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the key. Despite their differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the blend of materials used for their housing components.
In conclusion, the contrasting housing materials of the Gateron Oil King and the Aflion Windy Shadow provide distinctive sound profiles and typing experiences for users. The softer nylon top housing of the Oil King creates a fuller sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Windy Shadow produces a crisper and higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the differences in bottom housing materials impact the overall feel and sound characteristics of each switch. Despite these variations, both switches offer quality typing experiences based on the unique blend of materials used in their housing components.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Oil King linear switch to the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Gateron Oil King has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. The lighter actuation force of the Windy Shadow may appeal to individuals looking for a more effortless typing experience, while the heavier bottom out force of the Oil King provides a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with lighter switches being suitable for extended typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more pronounced typing feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Windy Shadow has a shorter travel distance compared to the Oil King. Gamers looking for a faster response time might prefer the Windy Shadow due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key might opt for the Oil King. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, catering to different preferences for keyboard users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 Gateron Oil King linear switch provides a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, offering a deep and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch delivers a low-pitched and neutral sound, which is more moderate and suitable for various typing scenarios. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Oil King switch is known for its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches offer a comfortable medium-light 55g bottom-out force, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users.
Overall, while the Gateron Oil King and Aflion Windy Shadow switches have some differences in sound and feel qualities, they both offer a smooth and satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer a deeper, bassy sound profile or a more neutral sound, and whether you enjoy a creamy, buttery keystroke feel or a gentler typing experience, both switches can provide excellent performance for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, choosing between the Gateron Oil King and Aflion Windy Shadow switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing characteristics you desire.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it really comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a switch. If you are looking for a slightly heavier bottom-out force and enjoy a low-pitched, bassy sound profile with a creamy, silky feel, then the Oil King may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and neutral, low-pitched sound profile with a mild typing experience, then the Windy Shadow could be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision.
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