Outemu Brown vs. Aflion Windy Shadow

Overview

When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Brown, a tactile switch, and the Aflion Windy Shadow, a linear switch. The Outemu Brown switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump when pressed. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow is emerging as a noteworthy manufacturer in the mechanical keyboard market, offering a linear switch with a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from its extended spring. While the Outemu Brown switch falls under the tactile category, the Aflion Windy Shadow is categorized as low-pitched, mild, and neutral. If you prefer a tactile typing experience, the Outemu Brown may be the way to go. However, if you value a smooth and consistent keystroke with a light bottom-out force, the Aflion Windy Shadow could be the better choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Brown Tactile

Aflion Windy Shadow Linear

$3.10 per 10

$5.50

$3.91 per 10

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Housing materials

The Outemu Brown and the Aflion Windy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches where a clear housing is desired for RGB lighting effects. However, the nylon bottom housings of the Brown and Windy Shadow differ slightly in terms of sound characteristics. The nylon bottom housing of both switches offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the top housing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall.

Despite the similarities in the top housing material between the Outemu Brown and the Aflion Windy Shadow, the differences lie in the bottom housing material and how it affects the overall sound profile of each switch. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing will provide a different tactile experience compared to switches with a polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing material, polycarbonate in this case, will impact the sound when releasing a key, creating a sharper and more resonant sound.

In conclusion, while both the Outemu Brown and the Aflion Windy Shadow utilize polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile, the differences in their nylon bottom housing material lead to variations in the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of both switches offers a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more sound and creating a duller tone. Understanding how the material composition of each switch affects the sound profile can help users choose the switch that aligns with their preferred typing experience and sound preferences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, there are clear differences in weight. The Outemu Brown has a higher actuation force of 53 grams compared to the Windy Shadow's unknown actuation force, making the Brown switch feel slightly heavier. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Brown switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly heavier to press all the way down. These differences in weight cater to different preferences among users, with some enjoying the lighter feel of the Windy Shadow for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the more substantial typing experience provided by the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Outemu Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirement.

Travel distance

The Outemu Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional option. 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 for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Outemu Brown. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, catering to individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize speed or depth in your typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Brown switch is known for providing a subtle and muted typing experience, which is ideal for environments where noise may be a concern. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, allowing for a smooth typing experience with a hint of bounce from the extended spring. Both switches are suitable for a variety of uses, but the Windy Shadows may appeal more to those who prefer a slightly more distinctive sound.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Brown switch is recognized for its tactile feedback, giving typists a noticeable bump when the key is actuated. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel with a moderate actuation force requirement. While the Brown switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile response, the Windy Shadows linear switch offers a safe middle-ground option that is likely to be comfortable for most users.

Overall, whether you choose the Outemu Brown tactile switch or the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, you can expect a reliable and enjoyable typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Brown switch offering a subtle sound and tactile feedback, while the Windy Shadows linear switch provides a low-pitched sound and a mild typing feel. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider the differences in bottom-out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams, the Outemu Brown tactile switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch may be more suitable. Additionally, the Outemu Brown switch is best known for its tactile feedback, while the Aflion Windy Shadow switch is known for its neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for bottom-out force and sound characteristics.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Aflion Windy Shadow Linear

$5.50

$3.91 per 10

Learn more