Aflion Blue Sky vs. TTC Brother
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the TTC Brother switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and the TTC Brother offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Blue Sky is a linear switch known for its smooth push feel and crystal clear typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Brother is a clicky switch that stands out for its lightweight nature and satisfyingly crunchy sound signature. While the Blue Sky is categorized as 'High-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished', the Brother is labeled as 'Crunchy', 'Easy-to-press', 'Stepped'. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference 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
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
17.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blue Sky and the TTC Brother both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This makes them ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows the light to shine through. The similarities in the top housing material of these switches indicate that users can expect a similar sound profile and aesthetic experience when typing on either the Blue Sky or the Brother.
Where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Blue Sky utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the Brother also features a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the importance of the material in impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the TTC Brother play a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switches. While both switches share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, the differing nylon bottom housing on each switch provides a unique typing experience. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch can help users choose the option that best suits their preferences and typing style.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch, we can see that the Blue Sky has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Brother's 37 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Blue Sky at 60 grams surpasses the Brother's unknown force. This means that the Blue Sky switch requires a bit more force to start typing but provides a more consistent push feel throughout the keystroke. On the other hand, the Brother switch may offer a lighter typing experience overall, but without the specific bottom out force, it's hard to determine. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Brother switch, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for the Blue Sky switch. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, catering to the preferences of different users.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the TTC Brother clicky switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a different feel when pressed down, with the Blue Sky providing a slightly deeper travel distance. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Brother switch for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Blue Sky. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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 Blue Sky linear switch offers a high-pitched sound profile that produces a sharp and crisp noise when pressed, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced sound. On the other hand, the TTC Brother clicky switch provides a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature that recreates the delightful feeling of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, perfect for clicky switch lovers. Both switches offer distinctive sound experiences, catering to different preferences in sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Sky switch offers a mild typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek and approachable typing feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of tactility. In contrast, the TTC Brother clicky switch provides an easy-to-press typing experience with minimal resistance and a light actuation force, making typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue. The Brother switch also features a stepped tactile feel, offering a more subtle keystroke experience compared to more pronounced tactile switches. Both switches provide unique tactile experiences, appealing to users with different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch offer distinctive sound and feel experiences that cater to different preferences. The Blue Sky switch excels in providing a high-pitched sound profile and a mild typing experience with a polished finish, while the Brother switch stands out with its crunchy sound signature, easy-to-press feel, and stepped tactile feedback. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. If similar results in sound and feel are desired, both switches offer exceptional quality in their respective categories.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a smooth and linear typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Blue Sky switch may be the right choice for you. Its high-pitched sound profile and mild feel offer a refined and polished typing experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a light actuation force and a crunchy sound signature, the Brother switch might be more up your alley. Its easy-to-press nature and stepped tactile bump provide a satisfying and low-impact typing feel. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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