Akko V3 Silver Pro vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Silver Pro and Aflion Windy Shadow both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The V3 Silver Pro is tailored for gamers, boasting a light actuation force and shortened travel distance that can give players a competitive edge. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow switches from Aflion provide a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from their extended spring, making them a comfortable choice for everyday use. While the V3 Silver Pro is praised for its creamy feel and high-pitched sound, the Windy Shadow stands out for its mild and low-pitched characteristics. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
13.8mm spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Aflion Windy Shadow both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, both switches produce a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, the polycarbonate top housing of these switches is quite similar.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Akko V3 Silver Pro boasts a nylon bottom housing, while the Aflion Windy Shadow also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing. In this aspect, both switches share the same bottom housing material and therefore offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and feel.
Overall, while both the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Aflion Windy Shadow share a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharp and clear sound profile, they differ slightly in their bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a deeper and fuller sound experience, creating a duller and rounder sound that absorbs more noise. Despite this difference, both switches offer a unique typing experience that is influenced by the combination of their top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch to the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, the main difference lies in their bottom out force. The V3 Silver Pro has a relatively light bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Windy Shadow has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches have a light actuation force, with the V3 Silver Pro requiring 40 grams and the Windy Shadow having an unspecified actuation force. This means that the V3 Silver Pro will feel lighter to type on compared to the Windy Shadow, which provides a slightly more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or slightly heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Silver Pro linear 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, making them suitable for those looking for a quicker response time. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Silver Pro for its faster key press registration. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Windy Shadow with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key press feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is known for its high-pitched and bassy sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, producing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various purposes. The choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, with the V3 Silver Pro offering a more high-pitched and energizing sound while the Windy Shadow provides a more neutral and subdued auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is recognized for its easy-to-press and creamy typing experience, offering minimal resistance and a smooth sensation with each keystroke. The switch is described as feathery and polished, providing a comfortable and low-impact typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In comparison, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch is characterized as mild, offering a gentle typing experience without pronounced characteristics. This means that the Windy Shadow switch provides a more approachable and middle-ground typing feel that may suit a wider range of users.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches have their own unique sound and feel characteristics, both switches are designed to provide a smooth and enjoyable typing experience for users. The V3 Silver Pro excels in offering a high-pitched sound and creamy feel, ideal for those seeking a more energizing and luxurious typing experience. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow provides a neutral sound profile and mild feel, catering to users who prefer a more balanced and gentle typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver satisfying results for different user preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is important to consider your specific needs and preferences. If you are a gamer looking for a switch with a light actuation force and shortened travel distance to gain a competitive edge, the V3 Silver Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and a medium-light bottom-out force for a comfortable typing experience in various settings, the Aflion Windy Shadow could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch, whether it be for gaming, typing, or a combination of both.
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