HC Studio Roselle vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Roselle and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HC Studio Roselle and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches stand out as top contenders. The Roselle is renowned for its remarkably smooth and wispy sensation, with a slight, low-pitched sound when typing. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow by Aflion offers a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce due to its extended spring, offering a comfortable 55g bottom-out force. While the Roselle excels in its bassy and frictionless attributes, the Windy Shadow provides a mild and neutral 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Y3
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HC Studio Roselle and the Aflion Windy Shadow, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their respective materials. The POM top housing of the Roselle produces a deep and muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Windy Shadow creates a sharper and more high-pitched sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users depending on their preference for a deeper or crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Windy Shadow allows for RGB lighting effects, adding a visual element to the switch that is not present in the Roselle.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the POM bottom housing of the Roselle generates a pleasing deep sound, whereas the nylon bottom housing of the Windy Shadow produces a fuller and rounder sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller sound profile compared to the harder POM material. This difference in sound profiles can affect the overall typing experience, with some users preferring a deeper sound while others prefer a fuller sound. The choice between the two materials can greatly impact the overall feel and sound of the switch.
Overall, while the Roselle and Windy Shadow have different housing materials for both the top and bottom, the qualities each material brings to the switch are complementary. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt more on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. By understanding the unique qualities of POM and nylon for the bottom housing, as well as polycarbonate and POM for the top housing, users can make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound profile and typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is clear that the Roselle is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. The Roselle has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Windy Shadow has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall under the category of medium-light in terms of force required. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Roselle may be the preferred choice. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a slightly heavier push, the Windy Shadow would be the better option. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 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, making them suitable for those who prioritize quick response times, such as gamers. However, the Roselle has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Windy Shadow, which may appeal to users who prefer a bit more depth and tactility when typing or gaming. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance that can provide a responsive and efficient typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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 HC Studio Roselle linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy typing experience, with a unique smoothness that contributes to an ethereal feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch provides a neutral and low-pitched sound profile with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring design. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience with their respective sound signatures.
In terms of feel, the Roselle linear switch is known for its frictionless and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless key press with minimal resistance. In comparison, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch also offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. Both switches prioritize a comfortable typing feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone for a pleasant overall experience.
In conclusion, while the HC Studio Roselle and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches differ slightly in sound and feel characteristics, both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users. Whether you prefer the unique smoothness of the Roselle or the distinctive bounce of the Windy Shadow, you can expect similar levels of comfort and satisfaction from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Conclusion
Overall, when deciding between the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, there are specific factors to consider based on your preferences. If you value an extremely smooth and frictionless typing experience with a subtle, low-pitched sound profile, the Roselle may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from an extended spring and a slightly higher bottom-out force, the Windy Shadow could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider how you prioritize these attributes when making your choice between the Roselle and the Windy Shadow.
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