Akko Penguin vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Penguin's tactile switches are perfect for those seeking a silent typing experience, making them ideal for office environments where noise reduction is a priority. These switches offer a rounded tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback with each keystroke, all while maintaining a quiet profile. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches stand out with their neutral sound profile and extended spring that gives them a distinctive bounce. With a 55g bottom-out weight, they offer a comfortable medium-light feel. While the Akko Penguin is polished, muted, and subtle, the Aflion Windy Shadow is low-pitched and mild. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The primary difference between the housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Aflion Windy Shadow lies in the material used for the top housing. The Penguin utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow employs polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffer plastic that leads to clearer resonance. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, the nylon of the Penguin provides a rounder sound compared to the more defined sound produced by the polycarbonate of the Windy Shadow.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Akko Penguin and the Aflion Windy Shadow feature nylon as their material of choice. This classic switch housing material results in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, contributing to the overall typing experience provided by these keyboards. Both switches benefit from the qualities of nylon in their bottom housings, ensuring a consistent tactile experience for users who prefer a deeper and rounder sound profile.
When examining the impact of having different housing materials for the top and bottom housings, it becomes clear that each component plays a crucial role in the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. The qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent during key presses, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel that users experience. In contrast, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key, shaping the overall typing experience. Despite the differences in material between the Akko Penguin and the Aflion Windy Shadow, their housing materials work together to deliver a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force differ between the two. The Akko Penguin has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Aflion Windy Shadow which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Akko Penguin has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Aflion Windy Shadow has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Akko Penguin may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while the Aflion Windy Shadow may be better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing for extended periods. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile 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, which are favored by gamers for their faster response times. The Akko Penguin has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Aflion Windy Shadow, which may result in a slightly quicker response when typing or gaming. However, the difference of 0.2 mm between the two may not be noticeable to all users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for the level of depth and tactility in key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
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.
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 Akko Penguin tactile switch offers a muted and neutral profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience suitable for office environments. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch emits a low-pitched and neutral sound, with a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. Both switches cater to a moderate sound profile, making them versatile for various settings.
In terms of feel, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance. This results in reduced friction, smooth key travel, and reduced finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience with approachable qualities that fall within a safe, middle-ground zone. Both switches prioritize comfort and ease of use, making them suitable for prolonged use.
Overall, the Akko Penguin tactile switch and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches provide a moderate sound profile suitable for most environments and a gentle typing experience that prioritizes comfort and reduced fatigue. Whether you choose the Akko Penguin for its quiet and rounded tactile bump or the Aflion Windy Shadow for its distinctive bounce and low-pitched sound, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider the environment and feel you prefer. If you are looking for a quiet switch for office use that provides a satisfying tactile bump and medium weight for prolonged typing sessions, the Akko Penguin is a solid choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a neutral sound profile, low-pitched sound, and a comfortable medium-light bottom-out force, the Aflion Windy Shadow is worth considering. Ultimately, choose the switch that best fits your typing needs and preferences, whether it be for work or leisure.
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