Durock Blue Lotus vs. Aflion Blue Sky
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Aflion Blue Sky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The world of mechanical keyboards is filled with a multitude of options, each tailored to suit specific preferences and typing styles. Two such options that stand out are the Durock Blue Lotus and the Aflion Blue Sky switches. The Blue Lotus switches are coveted for their tactile intensity and swift responsiveness. With a slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, these switches provide a marked tactile feel, making them ideal for those who appreciate a satisfying keypress. Additionally, the detachable light column of the Blue Lotus offers vibrant RGB illumination, combining performance with captivating visual appeal. On the other hand, the Blue Sky switches by Aflion offer a crystal clear linear typing experience. Their long pole stem ensures a smooth push feel, complemented by a sparkling sound profile. With a categorized description of 'High-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Blue Sky switches exquisitely deliver both auditory and haptic satisfaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
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 long spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Aflion Blue Sky switches differ in terms of their top housing. The Blue Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend top housing, which gives it a unique and premium feel. On the other hand, the Blue Sky utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate material is translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. While both switches have different top housings, they both prioritize delivering an exceptional sound experience, albeit with distinct characteristics.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Blue Lotus and the Blue Sky share the use of nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is achieved because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a duller and rounder sound when typing. Despite having the same bottom housing material, the unique design and construction of each switch may lead to subtle variations in the way the sound is produced. However, the fundamental benefits of using nylon in the bottom housing remain consistent for both the Blue Lotus and the Blue Sky switches.
Considering the impact of different housing materials on the overall switch experience, it is important to note that when pressing down on either the Blue Lotus or the Blue Sky switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will predominantly influence the bottom-out sound and feel. The bottom housing, being made of nylon in both cases, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when keys are pressed. Conversely, when letting go of a key, the top housing material will have more of an impact on the sound. The Blue Lotus with its modified PC and UPE blend top housing will offer unique and premium sound characteristics, while the Blue Sky's polycarbonate top housing will result in a sharper and crisper sound. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable and immersive typing experience, with the bottom housing emphasizing the act of pressing down and the top housing shaping the release of the key.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch, their actuation and bottom out forces reveal some similarities and differences. The Blue Lotus has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Blue Sky's 50 grams, making it slightly heavier to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Blue Lotus requiring 65 grams and the Blue Sky requiring 60 grams. This means that when pressing all the way down, both switches will provide a similar level of resistance and typing experience. In terms of weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Blue Sky, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Blue Lotus may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Overall, both switches offer medium actuation and bottom out forces, but the Blue Lotus leans towards the heavier side while the Blue Sky is slightly lighter.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, both switches fall within the range, with 4 mm being the more common option. However, shorter travel distances have become popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. In this case, the Durock Blue Lotus with its 3.7 mm travel distance would be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keystroke experience may find the 4 mm travel distance of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision boils down to personal preference and the level of responsiveness or depth desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Blue Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Lotus for $4.57.
The Aflion Blue Sky has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Sky for $4.07.
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 Durock Blue Lotus switches have a deep and rich sound profile, offering a bassy tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Aflion Blue Sky switches produce a sharp and crisp sound, described as high-pitched. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound, the Blue Lotus switches would be the preferred choice. However, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Blue Sky switches would be more suitable. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switches are described as accented, which means they provide a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. These switches are also snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience. Additionally, they are categorized as stepped switches, providing a mild tactile feel with pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Blue Sky switches offer a mild and gentle typing experience. These switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction. Overall, the Blue Lotus switches provide a more tactile and responsive feel, while the Blue Sky switches offer a smoother and more gentle typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switches and the Aflion Blue Sky linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Lotus switches have a deep and rich sound profile with a marked tactile feel, making them a suitable choice for those who enjoy more pronounced characteristics. On the other hand, the Blue Sky switches have a sharp and crisp sound with a mild and gentle typing experience, offering a safe middle-ground for most users. It is important to consider individual preferences and desired typing experience when choosing between these two switches. However, both switches provide high-quality performance and captivating visual appeal, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you enjoy a marked tactile feel and vibrant RGB illumination, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch would be a great choice for you. With its slightly reduced travel and medium-heavy bottom-out force, these switches offer a snappy and intense typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a crystal clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is a perfect option. With a medium bottom-out force and a long pole stem, these switches deliver an exquisitely smooth push feel. In terms of sound, the Blue Lotus provides a deep and rich bassy sound, while the Blue Sky offers a sharp and crisp high-pitched sound. As for the feel, the Blue Lotus is described as accented, snappy, and stepped, providing a medium tactile experience with two stages. The Blue Sky, on the other hand, offers a mild and polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for tactile intensity, sound profile, and typing feel.
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