Gazzew U4 vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4 and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gazzew U4, a tactile switch, and the Aflion Windy Shadow, a linear switch. The U4 is renowned for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, accompanied by a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation that sets it apart. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow from Aflion offers a neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce from its extended spring, providing a unique typing experience. While the U4 is categorized as muted, low-pitched, and sharp, the Windy Shadow falls under low-pitched, mild, and neutral. Both switches have their own distinct advantages depending on your preferences, whether you prioritize a tactile typing experience or a smoother linear feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Gazzew U4 and the Aflion Windy Shadow lies in the type of plastic used. The U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing made of a soft "boba plastic," which creates a rich and deep sound profile. In contrast, the Windy Shadow has a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the transparency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice for gamers and enthusiasts looking to customize their keyboards with colorful lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the U4 and the Windy Shadow also differ. The U4 utilizes the same proprietary Gazzew blend as the top housing for its bottom housing, resulting in a consistent rich and deep sound profile throughout the switch. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the typing experience and the overall sound signature of the switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Gazzew U4 and the Aflion Windy Shadow aim to enhance the sound profile of the switch. The use of specialized plastics in each housing component contributes to the overall acoustic experience, whether it be a rich and deep sound from the Gazzew blend or a sharper and crisper sound from the polycarbonate and nylon combination of the Windy Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and feel, as well as aesthetic considerations such as the ability to incorporate RGB lighting effects.
Weight
The Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Aflion Windy Shadow's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the U4 requires 62 grams while the Windy Shadow needs 55 grams, making the Windy Shadow slightly lighter in this aspect. Both switches fall into the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balance between a light typing experience and a more substantial feel. For those looking for a lighter switch to type on for longer periods, the Windy Shadow may be more suitable, while the U4 may appeal to those who prefer a bit more resistance for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Windy Shadow for faster response times, while those who prefer more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the slightly longer travel distance of the U4. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a muted and low-pitched profile, ensuring a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch also has a low-pitched sound but is described as neutral, providing a moderate sound profile suitable for various settings. Depending on personal preference and setup, both switches offer a different auditory experience that can cater to different needs.
Moving on to feel, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback, offering a distinct and intense tactile bump with each keypress. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch provides a milder typing experience, with a gentler feel that appeals to a wider range of users. While the U4 offers a more pronounced tactile sensation, the Windy Shadow provides a safer middle ground for those looking for a more approachable typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gazzew U4 tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The U4 provides a sharp tactile bump and a plush bottom-out sensation with a whisper-quiet sound profile, while the Windy Shadow offers a neutral sound with a distinctive bounce and a comfortably medium-light 55g bottom-out weight. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, newcomers can choose between the sharp and intense experience of the U4 or the gentler and more approachable feel of the Windy Shadow. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gazzew U4 tactile switch or the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, you should take into account your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force at 62 grams and enjoy a sharp, exhilarating tactile bump with a felt-like bottom out sensation, then the U4 would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force at 55 grams and value a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from an extended spring, then the Windy Shadow may be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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