Outemu Milk Tea vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Tea and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch with the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The Milk Tea is best known for its tactile feedback, making it a popular choice for typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow from Aflion is gaining recognition for its smooth and quiet linear action, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. The Milk Tea falls into the category of tactile switches, while the Windy Shadow is classified as a linear switch with a 55g bottom-out weight. 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
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
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Milk Tea and the Aflion Windy Shadow feature unique combinations of housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Milk Tea's Ly top housing offers a bright and resonant sound signature, providing a satisfying clack when typing. In contrast, the Windy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer nature that produces a clearer and more resonant sound. While both materials excel in enhancing sound quality, the Milk Tea's Ly top housing may be preferred for those seeking a brighter typing experience, while the Windy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for those looking for a sharper and higher-pitched sound.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Milk Tea and the Windy Shadow feature nylon materials that result in a deep and full sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound that is favored by many typists. As a result, whether you choose the Milk Tea or the Windy Shadow, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and feel. The nylon bottom housings provide a consistent and enjoyable typing experience, making them a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts who prioritize sound and tactility.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Milk Tea and Aflion Windy Shadow comes down to personal preference and desired sound profile. While the Milk Tea offers a brighter and resonant typing experience with its Ly top housing, the Windy Shadow provides a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing. However, both switches feature nylon bottom housings that enhance sound quality and create a deep and full typing experience. Whether you prefer a brighter or sharper sound, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that showcases the unique qualities of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is clear that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Milk Tea has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while the Windy Shadow has a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams. As a result, the Milk Tea provides a smoother typing experience with less resistance, which may be preferable for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, giving users a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Milk Tea has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Windy Shadow. The Milk Tea's 4 mm distance is considered more traditional, while the Windy Shadow's 3.5 mm is slightly shallower. Gamers may prefer the Windy Shadow for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a deeper press may prefer the Milk Tea. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what feels more comfortable for the user.
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 Tea 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 Tea tactile switch may offer a quiet and subtle typing experience, as the sound profile is not specified. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch is noted for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This means that the Windy Shadow switches provide a deeper, bass-heavy tone compared to higher-pitched switches while still maintaining a moderate sound level suitable for various environments.
In terms of feel, the Milk Tea switch does not have a specific description provided. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience. This indicates that the Windy Shadow switches provide a gentle feel during typing, falling into a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of tactile feedback and actuation force. This quality makes them approachable to most users, regardless of their typing preferences.
Overall, while the subjective qualities of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch remain unknown, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch is known for its low-pitched, neutral sound profile and mild typing experience. If you are looking for a switch that offers a comfortable medium-light actuation force and a subtle, bass-heavy sound, the Aflion Windy Shadow switches may be a suitable choice for you. Remember that personal preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch, so it is essential to consider factors such as sound, feel, and typing experience when making your decision.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch or the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, you should take into account your preferences for bottom out force. If you prefer a switch with no bottom out force, the Milk Tea would be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, then the Windy Shadow switch would be more suitable. Additionally, if you are looking for a switch with a low-pitched sound profile and a mild typing feel, you may lean towards the Windy Shadow. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual preferences and typing style.
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