SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is important to note their key differences in terms of typing experience and sound profile. The Polaris Purple is favored for its exhilarating tactile typing experience with a big tactile bump, making it suitable for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback while typing. In contrast, the Windy Shadow linear switch from Aflion offers a smoother typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from its extended spring, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. 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
67g
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
Gold plated
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Polaris Purple and Aflion Windy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, the Windy Shadow has a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches.
When both the top and bottom housings are different, as in the case of the Polaris Purple and Windy Shadow, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. This means that the Polaris Purple and Windy Shadow will offer a slightly different typing experience due to their housing materials. Despite this difference, both switches offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences based on their housing materials.
In conclusion, the Polaris Purple and Windy Shadow showcase the impact of housing materials on the sound profile and feel of mechanical switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound, the Windy Shadow stands out with its nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound. The split between top and bottom housing qualities contributes to a distinct typing experience for each switch, emphasizing the importance of housing materials in mechanical keyboard design.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Polaris Purple has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Windy Shadow has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is medium-light. The actuation force for both switches is unknown, but we can infer that the Polaris Purple may require a heavier actuation force compared to the Windy Shadow due to its higher bottom out force. This means that the Polaris Purple may provide a more substantial typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow's lighter bottom out force may appeal to users who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, we find that the Polaris Purple has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Windy Shadow's 3.5 mm. The Polaris Purple offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper keypress feel, which may be preferred by some users. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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
Overall, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a distinctive bounce with a neutral sound profile and a comfortable 55g bottom-out. In terms of sound, the Polaris Purple provides a neutral sound profile, while the Windy Shadow offers a low-pitched and neutral sound. When it comes to feel, both switches are described as providing a mild typing experience, making them approachable to most users. Additionally, the Polaris Purple is noted for its polished feel, ensuring smooth key travel. In conclusion, both the Polaris Purple and Windy Shadow switches offer unique qualities in sound and feel, catering to different preferences. Whether you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a neutral sound profile or a linear switch with a distinctive bounce and low-pitched sound, both options provide a satisfying typing experience for users.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump and snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce and a lighter bottom-out force, the Windy Shadow could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you want your typing experience to feel and sound, whether it be exhilarating and tactile with the Polaris Purple or smooth and light with the Windy Shadow. Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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