Aflion Blue Sky vs. Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch to the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, there are distinctive features that set them apart. The Blue Sky is praised for its crystal clear linear typing experience, offering a smooth push feel and sparkling sound profile. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is favored for its budget-friendly yet high-quality tactile sensation, providing a poppy and clacky sound alongside a smooth texture. While the Blue Sky is categorized as 'High-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished', the V3 Cream Blue Pro falls under 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Polished'. Both switches have their unique strengths and appeal to different preferences, whether you prioritize a linear typing experience or enjoy a lively tactile feedback. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
While both the Aflion Blue Sky and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, they offer slightly different aesthetics due to variations in design and color choices. However, in terms of sound profile, both switches will provide a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper typing experience thanks to the use of polycarbonate. The translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making both switches visually appealing for gamers and enthusiasts looking to customize their keyboards.
In contrast, when it comes to the bottom housings of the Blue Sky and the V3 Cream Blue Pro, they both feature nylon materials. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder typing experience. Despite the differences in color and design between the two switches, the use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both the Blue Sky and the V3 Cream Blue Pro offer a similar overall typing sound and feel, emphasizing a satisfying tactile experience for users.
Overall, while the Aflion Blue Sky and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro may differ in terms of their top housing aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in both switches ensures a consistent sharp and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the shared nylon bottom housing material provides a consistent deep and full typing experience across both switches. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a satisfying and tactile typing experience with either the Blue Sky or the V3 Cream Blue Pro.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, we find that the Blue Sky has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the V3 Cream Blue Pro with 45 grams. However, both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Blue Sky at 60 grams and the V3 Cream Blue Pro at 55 grams. This means that while the Blue Sky may require a bit more force to initiate a keystroke, the overall typing experience in terms of bottoming out will be similar between the two switches. The lighter actuation force of the V3 Cream Blue Pro may be preferred by those looking for a lighter touch, while the slightly heavier actuation force of the Blue Sky may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Blue Sky the longer of the two switches. The difference in travel distance may not seem significant, but it can have an impact on the overall feel and response of the switch. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Blue Pro, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Blue Sky. Both switches offer a different typing experience, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when deciding between them.
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 Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a high-pitched profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch provides a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, giving users a lively and audible feedback. Both switches offer different sound experiences, catering to users with varying preferences in keyboard sounds. 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 chosen.
In terms of feel, the Blue Sky switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel during use. In contrast, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is characterized by its accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel, providing a medium tactile feedback that is spring-like and responsive. While the Blue Sky switch falls in the middle ground in terms of typing experience, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switch offers a more lively and tactile sensation, making it appealing to users who enjoy a prominent amount of tactility without it being overwhelming.
Overall, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different user preferences. Whether you prefer a high-pitched linear experience or a poppy and clacky tactile feel, both switches provide distinct typing experiences that can enhance your overall keyboarding experience. It is important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, it all boils down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. If you value a crystal clear linear typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile and a polished feel, then the Blue Sky switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a budget-friendly option with a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, combined with a creamy tactile sensation and features such as a bouncy, snappy, and polished feel, then the V3 Cream Blue Pro switch might be more suitable. Consider your typing style, noise preferences, and desired typing experience when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your needs.
Mentioned in this article
