Outemu Milk Peach vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Peach and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Milk Peach and Aflion Windy Shadow both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Milk Peach is a linear switch that is best known for its smooth keystrokes and lack of tactile bump, while the Windy Shadow, also a linear switch, stands out as an offering from the emerging manufacturer Aflion. The Windy Shadow switches are praised for their neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce provided by an extended spring mechanism. Additionally, they have a comfortable 55g bottom-out force, making them medium-light switches. The Milk Peach, on the other hand, is categorized as a linear switch without any specific standout features. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Milk Peach and the Aflion Windy Shadow, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. The similarities in their top housing material indicate that users can expect similar sound profiles and visual appeal when using either switch.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Milk Peach's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow also features a nylon bottom housing, providing similar acoustics and tactile feel as the Milk Peach. This shared bottom housing material ensures that users will experience a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel between the two switches.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Outemu Milk Peach and Aflion Windy Shadow gives users a well-rounded typing experience. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings allows for a dynamic sound profile upon both pressing down and releasing a key. Whether using the Milk Peach or the Windy Shadow, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of sharpness, depth, and roundness of the sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences. The Milk Peach has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes quickly. However, the bottom out force is unknown, which may vary the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow has a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. The actuation force for the Windy Shadow is unknown, but based on the bottom out force, it can be assumed that it offers a slightly heavier actuation than the Milk Peach. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Milk Peach being lighter for longer typing sessions and the Windy Shadow offering a more substantial keystroke feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Milk Peach 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. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Milk Peach is slightly shorter than the Windy Shadow, making it potentially more appealing to those seeking a quicker and more responsive typing experience. However, some individuals may find the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Milk Peach to be too abrupt, and may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Windy Shadow for a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing style.
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 Milk Peach 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 Milk Peach linear switch does not have a distinct reputation, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile. Low-pitched switches like the Windy Shadow typically offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, making them pleasant to the ears. The neutral sound profile of the Windy Shadow means it is suitable for a wide range of users and environments, whether you're a beginner or an experienced user.
Moving on to feel, the Milk Peach switch does not have a specific feel associated with it, whereas the Windy Shadow linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience. Mild switches like the Windy Shadow offer a gentle feel while typing, making them comfortable for extended use. These switches strike a balance that should appeal to a broad range of users due to their approachable sound and feel.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a linear switch with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, as well as a mild typing experience, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch would be a suitable choice. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Windy Shadow stands out for its specific sound and feel characteristics. Keep in mind that sound and feel preferences can be subjective, so it's always a good idea to test out different switches before making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a light touch and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Milk Peach would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a unique bounce from an extended spring, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch might be more your style. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and sound profile. Consider what factors are most important to you and choose the switch that aligns best with your needs. Happy typing!
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