Aflion Blue Sky vs. TTC Bluish White
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the TTC Bluish White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may come across two popular options: the Aflion Blue Sky and the TTC Bluish White. The Blue Sky is a linear switch known for its crystal clear linear typing experience. With a long pole stem, these switches offer an exquisitely smooth push feel and a sparkling sound profile. On the other hand, the Bluish White is a tactile switch that provides a satisfyingly poppy typing experience. It offers a snappy sound profile and is categorized as buttery, stepped, and subtle. While these general descriptions give you an idea of what to expect, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Blue Sky and the TTC Bluish White share similar housing materials in terms of both their polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced, making it an ideal choice for switches with RGB lighting capabilities. Similarly, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches.
However, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ in a switch, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom portions of the switch. Pressing down on the switch will primarily expose the characteristics of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will play a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Blue Sky and the Bluish White may have the same housing materials, the distribution of these materials within the switch may result in slight variations in their overall performance and sound profiles.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Blue Sky and the TTC Bluish White utilize polycarbonate for their top housings and nylon for their bottom housings. These choices contribute to a sharper, crisper sound profile and enhanced RGB lighting capabilities due to the translucency of polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon fosters a deeper and fuller sound experience. However, differences in the distribution of these materials within the switches can lead to variations in sound and feel, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and the top housing influencing the release sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the TTC Bluish White tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Blue Sky has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Bluish White's lighter 42 grams. This means that the Blue Sky switch requires a bit more force to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches have a medium level of bottom out force, with the Blue Sky requiring 60 grams and the Bluish White requiring 50 grams. This indicates that once the keys are pressed fully, there is a similar level of resistance in both switches.
In terms of weight, the lighter actuation force of the Bluish White switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. This can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions where fatigue can become a factor. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Blue Sky switch may be preferred by individuals who desire a more substantial and deliberate push when typing. This can provide a satisfying typing experience with a greater sense of tactile feedback.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Those seeking a lighter feel may opt for the Bluish White while those who prefer a heavier touch may lean towards the Blue Sky. Both switches, however, offer a comparable level of resistance when fully pressed, ensuring that users will achieve similar results in terms of bottoming out.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Comparatively, the Blue Sky has a slightly longer travel distance than the Bluish White. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Bluish White's travel distance of 3.5 mm is shallower, making it a preferred choice for gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation, which can be beneficial in gaming scenarios. However, it is important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. For those who prefer a more hearty, substantial depth to their typing experience, the Blue Sky's longer travel distance would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is best known for its crystal clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile. These switches have a high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. They offer a mild typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek and polished typing experience. The feel of the Blue Sky switches is approachable and gentle, standing in a safe middle-ground zone. They have reduced friction and smooth key travel, thanks to either the materials used or factory lubing.
On the other hand, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is best known for providing a satisfyingly poppy typing experience. The switch has a low-pitched sound, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. In terms of feel, the Bluish White switches provide a buttery and smooth keystroke experience, giving a seamless and uniform typing sensation. They also have a mild typing experience, making them approachable to most users. The switches are polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Some users may also notice a slight pre-travel or post-travel sensation, as the switch is stepped.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the TTC Bluish White tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Blue Sky switch provides a crystal clear linear typing experience with a high-pitched sound and a mild, polished feel. On the other hand, the Bluish White switch offers a poppy typing experience with a low-pitched sound and a buttery, mild, and stepped feel. Each switch has its unique qualities that appeal to different preferences. If you are looking for a high-pitched sound and smooth push feel, the Blue Sky switch would be a suitable choice. If you desire a low-pitched sound and a smooth, buttery typing experience, the Bluish White switch would be a great option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a crystal clear, linear typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Aflion Blue Sky switches are the perfect choice for you. These switches offer a sparkling sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel. The high-pitched sound produced by these switches is sharp and crisp, making it ideal for those who prefer a more crisp sound profile. Additionally, the mild and polished feel of the Blue Sky switches ensures a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you desire a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a light bottom out force, the TTC Bluish White tactile switches are the way to go. These switches provide a snappy sound profile with a low-pitched, more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The buttery and mild feel of the Bluish White switches offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Furthermore, the stepped and subtle characteristics of these switches make them suitable for shared spaces, as they maintain a gentle resistance and a non-resonant sound signature.
Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switches and the TTC Bluish White tactile switches depends on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile. Consider whether you prioritize a crystal clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile or a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a snappy and mellow sound profile. By understanding your preferences, you can make an informed choice that suits your needs and enhances your overall typing experience.
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