Outemu Lotus vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Lotus and the Aflion Windy Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are key differences to consider. The Lotus is known for its smoothness, while the Windy Shadow is making a name for itself as an emerging manufacturer with their Windy Shadows linears. The Lotus falls into the category of 'starter switches', while the Windy Shadow is categorized as 'low-pitched, mild, neutral'. The Windy Shadow offers a unique bounce due to its extended spring and a comfortable 55g bottom-out, providing a medium-light touch. When deciding between the two, one may prefer the Lotus for its simplicity, while opting for the Windy Shadow for its emerging technology and distinct feel. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
pom
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
The housing materials of the Outemu Lotus and the Aflion Windy Shadow differ significantly in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Lotus features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Windy Shadow comes with a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This means that typing on the Lotus will offer a more subdued and muted sound experience compared to the clearer and resonant sound of the Windy Shadow.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Lotus and the Windy Shadow use nylon, resulting in a similar typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound due to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound. Therefore, despite the differences in the top housing materials, users can expect a consistent sound and feel when typing on either the Lotus or the Windy Shadow, thanks to the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Lotus and the Aflion Windy Shadow ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding the sound profile and typing experience. The Lotus, with its nylon top housing, offers a more subdued and muted sound, while the Windy Shadow, with its polycarbonate top housing, provides a clearer and resonant typing experience. Both switches feature nylon bottom housings, resulting in a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether you prefer a softer and more absorbent sound or a sharper and crisper sound, both options cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is clear that the Lotus is the lighter option. The Lotus has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Windy Shadow has an actuation force of an unknown amount and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which makes it slightly heavier than the Lotus. The actuation force of the Windy Shadow is not specified, so it is difficult to directly compare it to the Lotus in terms of how much force is required to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel despite the slight difference in weight. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is clear that the Lotus has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Windy Shadow has a longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the slight difference of 0.2 mm between the two switches may not be significant for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for responsiveness versus a more substantial feel when pressing the keys.
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 Lotus 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 Lotus switches do not have a specific sound profile associated with them, while the Windy Shadow switches are known for their low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The low-pitched sound of the Windy Shadow switches provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone, making them suitable for a variety of environments. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, but the Windy Shadow switches may be preferred for those who enjoy a more subdued sound while typing.
In terms of feel, the Lotus switches do not have a specific feel associated with them, while the Windy Shadow switches are described as mild. The mild feel of the Windy Shadow switches offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. With their middle-ground qualities, the Windy Shadow switches provide a comfortable typing experience that is not too harsh or too soft. Both switches offer a smooth and consistent keystroke, but the mild feel of the Windy Shadow switches may be preferred by users looking for a more subtle tactile response.
Overall, the Outemu Lotus linear switches and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lotus switches do not have specific characteristics mentioned, the Windy Shadow switches are known for their low-pitched sound and mild feel. Depending on personal preferences, users may find the neutral sound profile and comfortable medium-light bottom-out of the Windy Shadow switches to be appealing. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, and users can expect similar results in terms of performance and reliability.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, you should consider the bottom-out force, sound profile, and feel that best suit your preferences. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force, the Lotus at 50g may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer bottom-out force at 55g and enjoy a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the Windy Shadow is a great option to consider. Additionally, if you prefer a mild typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone, the Windy Shadow may be the more suitable choice for you. Ultimately, consider your typing style and preferences to decide which switch will enhance your overall typing experience.
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