KTT Phalaenopsis vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Aflion Windy Shadow stand out as top choices for users seeking different typing experiences. The Phalaenopsis, a tactile switch, offers a light actuation force of 37g and a satisfying tactile bump of 50g, making typing effortless and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow, a linear switch, provides a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from its extended spring, with a comfortable 55g bottom-out. While the Phalaenopsis is known for its 'Bassy', 'Stepped', and 'Thocky' characteristics, the Windy Shadow is classified as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on personal preferences, 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Aflion Windy Shadow contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches in different ways. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting for an aesthetically pleasing look. However, the Phalaenopsis differs from the Windy Shadow in its polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Windy Shadow utilizes a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Windy Shadow results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound.
While both the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Aflion Windy Shadow share a polycarbonate top housing, their differences lie in the bottom housing material. The split qualities of the housing materials affect the overall typing experience of the switches. When pressed, the bottom housing of the Windy Shadow with its nylon material provides a more impactful and deep bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the top housing of the Phalaenopsis, with its polycarbonate material, influences the sound when releasing a key. These differences in housing materials demonstrate how the design choices impact the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While both the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Aflion Windy Shadow utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the differences in their bottom housing materials lead to distinct sound profiles. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the Phalaenopsis contributes to a sharper sound, while the softer nylon material in the Windy Shadow results in a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting switches for their keyboards.
Weight
The KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Windy Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams in comparison to the Phalaenopsis' 50 grams. Both switches provide different typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces. The lighter actuation force of the Phalaenopsis may be preferable for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it requires less effort to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the Windy Shadow offers a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces to achieve the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Windy Shadow has a shorter travel distance compared to the Phalaenopsis. Shorter travel distances are often favored by gamers for quicker response times, while longer travel distances are preferred by those who enjoy a deeper keystroke experience. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately depends on personal preference when deciding between the two. The shorter travel distance of the Windy Shadow may provide a faster typing experience, while the longer travel distance of the Phalaenopsis may offer a more deliberate and satisfying keystroke feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is known for its bassy and thocky characteristics, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles, with the Phalaenopsis offering a deeper and richer sound, while the Windy Shadow delivers a more moderate and neutral sound that is suitable for various environments.
In terms of feel, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is described as having a stepped feel, providing a two-stage tactile experience that is milder compared to hypertactile switches. This allows for a more nuanced typing experience with some pre-travel and post-travel sensations. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. The Windy Shadow's qualities fall within a safe middle-ground zone, making it versatile for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Phalaenopsis excels in providing a deep and rich sound profile with a stepped tactile feel, while the Windy Shadow delivers a neutral sound profile with a mild and approachable typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, as both switches offer distinctive characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch or the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, you should take into account your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize a light actuation force and a satisfying tactile bump that minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, the Phalaenopsis switches may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce and a slightly heavier bottom-out force, the Windy Shadow linear switches could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by your individual typing style and preferences to ensure a seamless and enjoyable typing experience.
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