KTT Strawberry vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Strawberry and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Strawberry and the Aflion Windy Shadow both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Strawberry, a linear switch, is beloved for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. With a categorization of 'Low-pitched', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', 'Buttery', and 'Polished', the Strawberry switch is ideal for those who prioritize a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow, also a linear switch, stands out for its neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce from its extended spring. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', these switches boast a 55g bottom-out that provides a comfortably medium-light touch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style; 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Strawberry and the Aflion Windy Shadow, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that promotes clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate is also beneficial for switches using RGB lighting. However, the bottom housing material differs between the two switches, with the Strawberry featuring a polycarbonate bottom housing and the Windy Shadow utilizing nylon. The use of nylon in the Windy Shadow's bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound.
Despite using different materials for their bottom housings, the KTT Strawberry and the Aflion Windy Shadow both benefit from the unique qualities of their respective materials. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Strawberry contributes to a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound and feel, while the nylon bottom housing of the Windy Shadow enhances the overall sound with a deeper and fuller tone. The top housing material in both switches plays a significant role in the sound profile, with polycarbonate creating a clear and resonant sound when releasing a key. The differences in bottom housing materials result in distinct typing experiences between the two switches.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials in the KTT Strawberry and the Aflion Windy Shadow showcases how each material impacts different aspects of the switch's sound and feel. The bottom housing material has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. The use of polycarbonate in both switches' top housing results in a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile, while the variation in bottom housing materials adds unique characteristics to their respective typing experiences. Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Strawberry linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that the Strawberry has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Windy Shadow, whose actuation force is unknown. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Windy Shadow requires 55 grams of force, while the Strawberry demands 62 grams, making it the heavier of the two. In terms of weight, the Windy Shadow is considered medium-light, while the Strawberry falls into the medium category. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Windy Shadow for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may lean towards the heavier bottom out force of the Strawberry for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Strawberry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Windy Shadow may provide a faster response time, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Strawberry may offer a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Both switches offer slightly different travel distances, providing users with options depending on their individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 per 10 switches.
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, both the KTT Strawberry and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches offer a low-pitched profile, resulting in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, the Windy Shadow also provides a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and preferences. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the KTT Strawberry switch is known for its frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished qualities, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience, standing in a safe middle-ground zone that many users may find approachable. Both switches prioritize comfort and smooth key travel, making them ideal choices for individuals seeking a pleasant typing experience.
In conclusion, both the KTT Strawberry and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Strawberry switch excels in providing a silky and polished feel, while the Windy Shadow switch focuses on delivering a mild and gentle typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of comfort and reliability.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Strawberry linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider your preference for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force at 62 grams and enjoy a smooth, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience with a low-pitched sound, then the KTT Strawberry switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force at 55 grams and enjoy a neutral, low-pitched sound with a mild typing feel that is approachable and gentle, then the Aflion Windy Shadow switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and how you want your keyboard to feel and sound while using it.
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