Dareu Sky POM vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky POM and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Sky POM and the Aflion Windy Shadow both offer unique features to consider. The Dareu Sky POM switch stands out for its premium quality made from POM material, providing a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force. Categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Silky', this switch may be ideal for those seeking a smooth and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches offer a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from their extended spring. At a 55g bottom-out, they provide a comfortably medium-light feel. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', this switch might be suitable for those looking for a reliable and comfortable typing sensation. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Sky POM and the Aflion Windy Shadow, we can see some distinct differences. The Sky POM features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Windy Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The Sky POM's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Windy Shadow also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, creating a similar effect. Overall, the use of different materials for the top and bottom housings in each switch can influence the overall sound and feel when typing.
One key difference between the Sky POM and the Windy Shadow is the material used for the top housing. The POM top housing of the Sky POM provides a unique sound profile that is more muted, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Windy Shadow produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the Windy Shadow. Both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is more round and dull compared to harder plastics. Despite these differences, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of each switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Sky POM and the Aflion Windy Shadow will come down to personal preference in sound and feel. The POM top housing of the Sky POM will provide a more muted and unique sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Windy Shadow creates a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches feature nylon bottom housings for a deeper and fuller sound profile. The split between the top and bottom housings impacts the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key. Regardless of the differences in materials, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with unique sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, we see that the Sky POM has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Windy Shadow, whose actuation force is unknown. However, the Windy Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, while the bottom out force of the Sky POM is not listed. For those who prefer a light typing experience, the Sky POM would be the choice, as it requires less force to activate a keystroke. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Windy Shadow's heavier bottom out force would provide a satisfying push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Sky POM offers a bit more depth with its 3.8 mm travel distance, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow's 3.5 mm travel distance may appeal to users looking for a slightly quicker actuation point. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference regarding travel distance and desired level of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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 Dareu Sky POM switch offers a low-pitched and clacky sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone for a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch also features a low-pitched sound, but with a more neutral profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced. The sound of both switches will also be influenced by additional factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Sky POM switch is praised for its buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and uniform sensation with each keystroke. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch provides a mild typing experience, gentle and approachable to most users, falling in a safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel. Both switches aim to deliver a comfortable and satisfying typing feel, ensuring an enjoyable user experience.
Overall, while the Dareu Sky POM and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches may have some differences in sound and feel, they both provide premium quality and smoothness in typing. Whether you choose the Dareu Sky POM for its clacky sound and buttery feel, or the Aflion Windy Shadow for its neutral sound and mild feel, you can expect a high level of performance and satisfaction from either switch. Ultimately, selecting between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Sky POM linear switch or the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a switch with a low-pitched sound profile, a buttery and creamy feel, and a gentle actuation force, the Dareu Sky POM may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, a mild feel, and a medium-light actuation force, the Aflion Windy Shadow could be the ideal choice. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, your typing experience will be greatly influenced by the switch you choose, so take your time to weigh the pros and cons of each before making a decision.
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