Dareu Sky V4 vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V4 and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Sky V4 and Aflion Windy Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches known for their unique characteristics. The Sky V4 stands out for its use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action that offers a rich and satisfying typing experience. Categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy', this switch is popular among typists looking for a unique feel and sound. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch is praised for its neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce thanks to its extended spring. With a 55g bottom-out, these switches provide a comfortably medium-light typing experience. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Windy Shadow offers a different feel compared to the Sky V4. 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
55g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
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
The Dareu Sky V4 and the Aflion Windy Shadow both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall feel and sound of the switches. The Sky V4 utilizes POK material for its top housing, providing smoothness, durability, and a clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Windy Shadow incorporates polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound and an aesthetically pleasing translucent look ideal for RGB lighting. While both materials offer distinct characteristics, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience for users.
Regarding the bottom housing, both the Sky V4 and the Windy Shadow opt for nylon material. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This choice suggests that both switches prioritize providing a satisfying typing experience by focusing on the bottom-out sound and feel. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, the switches may still offer slightly different experiences based on other design factors and overall construction.
Overall, the Dareu Sky V4 and the Aflion Windy Shadow showcase how housing materials can impact the typing experience differently. While the Sky V4 emphasizes smoothness, durability, and a clacky sound with its POK top housing, the Windy Shadow prioritizes a sharper, higher-pitched sound and a clear aesthetic with its polycarbonate top housing. However, both switches share a commitment to enhancing the overall sound and feel of typing through the use of nylon bottom housing, indicating a common goal of providing a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
The Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch both have a bottom out force of 55 grams, making them equally medium-light in terms of pressure needed to fully press the key. However, the Dareu Sky V4 has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Aflion Windy Shadow's actuation force is unknown. This means that the Dareu Sky V4 is lighter in terms of the force needed to initially trigger a keystroke compared to the Aflion Windy Shadow. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Dareu Sky V4 more suitable for longer typing sessions, while individuals who prefer a slightly heavier push feel may lean towards the Aflion Windy Shadow for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 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 favored by gamers for their quicker response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users, with the Sky V4 offering a slightly deeper press compared to the Windy Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a slightly longer or shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky V4 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 V4 for $4.76.
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 Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile that is rich and satisfying to the user. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound experience, with a distinctive bounce due to its extended spring. Both switches have a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users depending on personal preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is known for its bouncy sensation, providing a lively and elastic feedback when typing. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch offers a milder typing experience, catering to those who prefer a more gentle feel while still maintaining a sense of responsiveness. Both switches fall within a comfortable middle ground in terms of typing feel, ensuring a satisfactory typing experience for most users.
Overall, the Dareu Sky V4 and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Sky V4 excels in providing a deep and thocky sound along with a bouncy typing feel, whereas the Windy Shadow presents a low-pitched sound and a mild typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel, both switches offer a satisfying experience that caters to a wide range of users. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider the following: choose the Sky V4 if you prefer a more thocky and low-pitched sound profile with a bouncy feel. The innovative POK material in the Sky V4 delivers a deeper sound and smooth linear action that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Windy Shadow if you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a more mild typing experience. The extended spring in the Windy Shadow provides a distinctive bounce while maintaining a comfortable bottom-out force of 55 grams. Overall, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your typing experience.
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