Outemu Blue vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue and the Aflion Windy Shadow offer unique experiences for users. The Outemu Blue switch is well-known for its clicky feedback, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy tactile typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow, a linear switch, stands out for its neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce from the extended spring, providing a smooth typing experience. While the Blue switch is categorized as clicky, the Windy Shadow falls under the categories of low-pitched, mild, and neutral. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Blue and Aflion Windy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for RGB lighting. The nylon bottom housings of both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
However, the key difference between the two switches lies in the bottom housing material. The Blue uses a nylon bottom housing, while the Windy Shadow also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. This means that while both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the nylon material, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will vary slightly between the two switches. The top housings, on the other hand, being made of the same polycarbonate material, will have a similar impact on the sound when letting go of a key for both switches.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Outemu Blue and Aflion Windy Shadow play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of the switches. While both switches have polycarbonate top housings that produce a sharp and clear sound, the nylon bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller sound profile. The slight difference in bottom housing material may result in a subtle variation in the bottom-out sound and feel between the two switches, but overall, the use of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of these switches contribute to their unique sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Blue clicky switch to the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force are quite different. The Outemu Blue clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Outemu Blue clicky switch has none provided, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Outemu Blue clicky switch for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who prefer a heavier bottom out force may opt for the Aflion Windy Shadow for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Blue switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Windy Shadow switch. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Blue switch is more traditional, offering a deeper key press experience. On the other hand, the 3.5mm travel distance of the Windy Shadow switch provides a more shallow and quicker key press response. Gamers may prefer the Windy Shadow switch for its shorter travel distance, resulting in faster response times. However, those looking for a more substantial key press may opt for the Outemu Blue switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience one desires.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Blue switch is well-known for its satisfying clicky noise that is reminiscent of typewriters, making it popular among those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, providing a more mellow and bass-heavy tone compared to other switches. While the Blue switch may be preferred for those who enjoy a more pronounced click sound, the Windy Shadow switch is a great option for those seeking a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Blue switch provides a tactile bump and audible click during actuation, giving typists a tactile feel with each keystroke. Conversely, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. The extended spring in the Windy Shadow switch adds a distinctive bounce to the typing experience, making it a comfortable choice for those who prefer a smoother linear feel.
Overall, the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Blue switch excels in providing a satisfying click sound and tactile feedback, the Windy Shadow switch stands out with its low-pitched sound profile and mild typing experience. Depending on whether you prioritize auditory feedback or a smoother typing feel, both switches provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, you should consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a clicky switch with no bottom out force specified and a distinct click sound, the Outemu Blue may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-light linear switch with a neutral sound profile and a mild typing feel, the Aflion Windy Shadow could be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing experience.
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