Outemu Phoenix vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the Outemu Phoenix and the Aflion Windy Shadow. The Phoenix is a clicky switch, featuring a unique under-skirt click mechanism that sets it apart from other switches on the market. Known for its crystalline and sparkling sound profile, it falls into the categories of 'Crunchy' and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow is a linear switch that offers a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce thanks to its extended spring. With a 55g bottom-out, it provides a comfortably medium-light typing experience and falls into the categories of 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that may appeal to different 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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 Phoenix and Aflion Windy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share the same top housing material, the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a similar sound profile to its top housing. In contrast, the Windy Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a different sound experience from its polycarbonate top housing. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt more, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. This difference in housing materials can affect the overall typing experience and sound signature of the switches.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Phoenix and Aflion Windy Shadow would come down to personal preference in sound profile. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound with RGB lighting capabilities, the Phoenix with its polycarbonate housings would be a suitable option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper and fuller sound with a softer touch, the Windy Shadow with its nylon bottom housing may be more to your liking. Both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, providing different typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that they both have a light actuation force, with both requiring None grams of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Phoenix is slightly heavier with a 62 gram force compared to the Windy Shadow's 55 gram force, making the Windy Shadow the lighter option overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to avoid fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming, the Windy Shadow would be the better choice. On the other hand, the Phoenix may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are often favored by gamers for quicker response times. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference - if you prefer a slightly shallower key press, the Phoenix may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bit more depth in your key presses, the Windy Shadow may be the way to go. Either way, both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing a more responsive typing experience.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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
The Outemu Phoenix clicky switch produces a unique and crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, providing a more mellow and bass-heavy tone suitable for various environments. When it comes to feel, the Phoenix switch offers a polished and refined typing experience, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience, falling in a safe middle-ground zone suitable for most users. Overall, both switches offer distinct qualities in sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Whether you prefer the unique clicky feel of the Phoenix or the gentle linear feel of the Windy Shadow, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience depending on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to deciding between the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a unique and distinctive typing experience with a medium bottom-out force of 62 grams, the Phoenix clicky switch would be your best choice. Its under-skirt click mechanism provides a crunchy sound profile that stands out from the crowd. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile with a medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch would be the way to go. Its low-pitched sound and mild feel offer a comfortable typing experience suitable for various environments. Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on your preference for sound profile, bottom-out force, and typing feel.
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