Outemu Silent Green vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Green and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Silent Green and Aflion Windy Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that they both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Silent Green is a linear switch that is best known for its silence and lack of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow, also a linear switch, stands out for being produced by the emerging manufacturer Aflion, and it offers a mild and neutral typing experience with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring, providing a medium-light feel at 55g bottom-out. While the Silent Green may appeal to those seeking a quiet typing experience, the Windy Shadow may be preferred by individuals looking for a subtle tactile feel without sacrificing comfort. 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
60g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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
The Outemu Silent Green and Aflion Windy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This material is great for switches that plan to use RGB lighting as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects. However, the Aflion Windy Shadow stands out with its nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing which also contributes to a clear and resonant sound but in a sharper tone. The difference in bottom housing material between the two switches brings distinct typing experiences for users.
In terms of sound characteristics, the top housing of both switches plays a significant role in shaping the sound when a key is released. The polycarbonate material in both Silent Green and Windy Shadow top housings creates a sharp and crisp sound. On the other hand, the bottom housing material impacts the bottom-out sound and feel during typing. The Aflion Windy Shadow's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile, contrasting with the clearer and resonant sound produced by the Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing. These differences highlight the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience.
Overall, while both the Outemu Silent Green and Aflion Windy Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile, their differing bottom housing materials provide unique typing experiences. The Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound, while the Windy Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound characteristics is crucial for keyboard enthusiasts looking to tailor their typing experience to their preferences. Regardless of the differences, both switches provide high-quality sound profiles that cater to different preferences in key feel and sound.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that the Silent Green has a lighter actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Windy Shadow, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Windy Shadow is lighter at 55 grams compared to the Silent Green's 60 grams. The Silent Green provides a medium feel in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, while the Windy Shadow offers a slightly lighter touch with a medium-light bottom out force. This means that typing on the Silent Green switch may have a slightly heavier and more substantial feel compared to the Windy Shadow, which would offer a lighter touch. Both switches provide a different typing experience, catering to those who prefer either a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Green linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Windy Shadow may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Silent Green could be preferred by those who prefer a more substantial keypress experience. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the slight variation may make a difference depending on individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to whether you prioritize a shorter, quicker press or a slightly longer, more deliberate keystroke.
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 Silent Green 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 comparing the sound of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch to the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is clear that the Silent Green's sound profile is unknown, while the Windy Shadow is described as low-pitched and neutral. Low-pitched switches typically have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, making them pleasant to the ears. Neutral switches, on the other hand, provide a moderate sound profile suitable for various settings. However, it's essential to consider that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel, the Outemu Silent Green switch's sensation remains unknown. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch is defined as mild. This means that Windy Shadow switches offer a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The sound and feel of these switches fall within a safe middle ground, making them suitable for a wide range of preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, while specific details about the Outemu Silent Green switches are not available, we can infer that they may offer a different experience compared to the Aflion Windy Shadow switches. The Windy Shadow switches are known for their low-pitched and neutral sound profile, along with a mild feel that provides a comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches would depend on personal preferences in terms of sound and feel, as both options offer their unique qualities that cater to different user preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Silent Green or the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is important to take into account your preference for bottom-out force. If you prefer a slightly lighter touch, the Windy Shadow with a 55g bottom-out force may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force, the Silent Green with a 60g bottom-out force may be the better option. Additionally, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, the Windy Shadow may be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of bottom-out force, sound, and feel.
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