TTC Silent Red vs. Aflion Windy Shadow

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Silent Red and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches stand out as popular options. The Silent Red offers a smooth and silent typing experience, making it ideal for office environments or shared spaces. It provides a consistent feel from top to bottom, with a padded bottom-out for added comfort. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow switches are known for their neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce from the extended spring, offering a comfortable medium-light 55g bottom-out. While the Silent Red focuses on a muted and polished typing experience, the Windy Shadow provides a mild and low-pitched alternative. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Silent Red Linear

Aflion Windy Shadow Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

$5.50

$3.91 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the TTC Silent Red and the Aflion Windy Shadow are quite similar in terms of both having polycarbonate top housings. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through for a visually appealing effect. Since both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, users can expect to experience a similar typing experience in terms of sound and aesthetics.

However, a key difference between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Silent Red features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. In contrast, the Windy Shadow also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering users a similar typing experience with a deep and fuller sound profile. Both switches leverage the unique acoustic properties of nylon to enhance the overall typing experience.

Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in both the TTC Silent Red and the Aflion Windy Shadow contributes to a well-rounded typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance between a sharp and resonant sound when pressing down on a key and a deeper, fuller sound when releasing it. Whether it's the unique sound profiles created by the different housing materials or the visual appeal of translucent polycarbonate, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, significant differences can be observed. The Silent Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Windy Shadow has an actuation force of an unknown amount and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. The Silent Red requires a lighter initial touch to register a keystroke compared to the Windy Shadow, but it demands a heavier force to fully press the key down. This means that the Silent Red may provide a smoother typing experience for extended periods, while the Windy Shadow may offer a more tactile feel during keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch both offer relatively short travel distances compared to traditional switches, with the Silent Red at 3.7 mm and the Windy Shadow at 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that have become popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. In this case, the Windy Shadow has the shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the Silent Red offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial key press experience for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall key press experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Silent Red offers a muted experience, producing a softer and quieter sound that is ideal for office or shared living spaces. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring mechanism. Both switches aim to minimize noise while still providing a satisfying typing experience, so you can expect similar results in terms of sound from both options.

In terms of feel, the TTC Silent Red switch offers a buttery and polished typing experience, with a mild and uniform sensation throughout. The Aflion Windy Shadow, on the other hand, provides a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. Both switches aim to provide a smooth and comfortable typing experience, so you can expect a similar level of comfort and satisfaction when typing on either one.

In conclusion, both the TTC Silent Red and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a switch with a muted sound profile and a smooth, consistent feel, the TTC Silent Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a low-pitched sound and a mild typing experience, the Aflion Windy Shadow could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific qualities that you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider your priorities. If you value a smooth and quiet typing experience, especially for use in an office or shared environment, the Silent Red may be the better choice with its medium-heavy bottom out force and muted sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a distinctive bounce and a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Aflion Windy Shadow could be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize noise reduction and comfort (Silent Red) or a unique typing experience with a moderate actuation force (Windy Shadow). Choose the switch that best aligns with your preferences and needs for an optimal typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

Aflion Windy Shadow Linear

$5.50

$3.91 per 10

Learn more