Outemu Cold Plum vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Cold Plum and the Aflion Windy Shadow, both linear switches but offering their own unique features. The Outemu Cold Plum stands out for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, providing a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound that appeals to typing enthusiasts looking for a distinct typing feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow offers a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce thanks to its extended spring, making it a comfortable medium-light option for those who prefer a softer touch. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Cold Plum and the Aflion Windy Shadow differ significantly in terms of their sound profiles. The Cold Plum's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Windy Shadow's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound because of its stiffer plastic composition, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Aesthetically, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Windy Shadow also allows for RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal that the Cold Plum's opaque nylon housing lacks.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, both the Cold Plum and the Windy Shadow utilize nylon material. As a result, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, with the nylon material providing a deep and full sound due to its softer plastic composition. This means that while the top housings of the switches play a significant role in determining the overall sound profile, the similarity in bottom housing material ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound when using either switch.
In summary, the choice between the Outemu Cold Plum and the Aflion Windy Shadow ultimately comes down to personal preferences in sound profile and aesthetics. Those who prefer a deeper and fuller sound with a duller and rounder tone may lean towards the Cold Plum with its nylon housing, while users who prioritize a sharper, crisper sound with clear visibility for RGB lighting may find the polycarbonate housing of the Windy Shadow more appealing. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer a reliable typing experience, thanks to the shared use of nylon in their bottom housings.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Cold Plum has a higher actuation force of 60 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the Windy Shadow's actuation force is unknown. However, the Cold Plum has a higher bottom out force of 70 grams, compared to the Windy Shadow's lower bottom out force of 55 grams, making the latter a medium-light switch. This means that the Cold Plum requires more force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow offers a lighter typing experience with less required force for both actuation and bottoming out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Overall, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize quick and responsive keystrokes. Gamers especially may prefer these shorter travel distances for faster response times. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the Windy Shadow with its slightly longer travel distance more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Cold Plum 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is best known for its thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying and distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments. The choice between the two would ultimately come down to personal preference and the overall sound profile desired by the user.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offers a smooth keystroke and satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch provides a mild typing experience, aiming for a gentle and approachable feel for most users. Both switches fall in the medium-light actuation force range but may cater to different preferences based on the level of feedback and resistance desired.
Overall, both the Outemu Cold Plum and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cold Plum excels in providing a thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, the Windy Shadow focuses on a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a mild typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users will be pleased with either choice as both switches deliver a distinct and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique typing experience with a thocky sound profile and medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce and a medium-light bottom out force, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a satisfying sound and smooth keystroke (Cold Plum) or a moderate sound profile and comfortable typing feel (Windy Shadow). Consider what qualities are most important to you in a keyboard switch and choose accordingly.
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