Gateron Quinn vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Quinn and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Quinn, a tactile switch, and the Aflion Windy Shadow, a linear switch, offer unique experiences for users. The Quinn switches are celebrated for their crisp tactility and deep, resonant sound, creating a typing experience that is both immersive and full of character. On the other hand, the Windy Shadows linears from Aflion provide a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from their extended spring, offering a comfortable typing experience at a 55g bottom-out. Each switch has its own qualities that appeal to different preferences - whether you prefer the tactile feel and rich sound of the Quinn switches or the smooth typing experience of the Windy Shadows. 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
59g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Quinn and Aflion Windy Shadow both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Quinn utilizing nylon for both parts while the Windy Shadow opts for polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom. The Quinn's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. In contrast, the Windy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer composition, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the use of polycarbonate in the Windy Shadow's top housing allows for better RGB lighting due to its translucency.
While both the Quinn and Windy Shadow use nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, the difference in their top housing materials leads to distinct sound characteristics. The split in housing materials between top and bottom impacts the overall feel and sound of the switch - the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. The combination of nylon and polycarbonate in the Windy Shadow allows for a clearer and sharper sound upon release, whereas the Quinn maintains a consistent duller and rounder sound throughout the typing experience.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron Quinn and Aflion Windy Shadow ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. While both switches offer a deep and full sound due to their shared nylon bottom housing, the Quinn's consistent sound profile may appeal to those looking for a more uniform typing experience. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow's blend of polycarbonate and nylon creates a dynamic sound profile with sharper tones, particularly noticeable upon key release. Whether you prefer the softer, absorbent nature of nylon or the stiffer, clearer characteristics of polycarbonate, both switches provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Quinn has a higher actuation force of 59 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Windy Shadow has an unknown actuation force, but a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light option. The Quinn offers a more substantial typing feel with its heavier forces, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow provides a lighter touch, perfect for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons where fatigue may be a concern. Overall, the Quinn is the heavier option while the Windy Shadow is the lighter option, catering to different preferences in keyboard switches.
Travel distance
The Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches may not be significant in terms of feel or performance, as it falls within the realm of personal preference. Some users may find the Quinn's slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm more to their liking for quick and precise keystrokes, while others may prefer the Windy Shadow's slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm for a more substantial key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 Gateron Quinn tactile switch is characterized by a deep and resonant profile, offering a rich and immersive auditory experience with a clacky and low-pitched tone. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch provides a more neutral and low-pitched sound, making it suitable for a variety of environments. While the Quinn switch leans towards a bass-heavy and crisp sound, the Windy Shadow switch offers a moderate sound profile that is versatile for different users. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is renowned for its snappy and polished typing experience, delivering a precise and responsive feedback with a distinct bounce. Additionally, the Quinn switch is described as having a buttery and creamy feel, indicating a smooth and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch is characterized as providing a mild and gentle typing experience, suitable for users looking for a more subtle feel without overwhelming characteristics. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback that caters to different preferences, whether you prefer a more pronounced or approachable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch each bring distinctive qualities to the table. The Quinn switch excels in providing a crisp and rich sound profile with a responsive and polished feel, while the Windy Shadow switch offers a neutral sound with a comfortable medium-light feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can cater to different typing styles and environments. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you value the most.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Quinn tactile switch or the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a unique tactile feedback and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Quinn switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a neutral sound profile and a comfortable typing experience, the Windy Shadow switches would suit your needs better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what aspects of a mechanical switch are most important to you in order to optimize your typing experience.
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