Aflion Blue Sky vs. KTT Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Cream Yellow are two popular options worth considering. The Blue Sky, a linear switch, is known for its long pole stem that offers a crystal clear linear typing experience. This switch selection not only provides a sparkling sound profile but also an exquisitely smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch, also a linear option, is designed to deliver a distinctively clacky sound. Its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem contribute to resonant audio feedback. Additionally, the lengthened spring gives it a uniquely bouncy typing feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Cream Yellow both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This shared material brings about similar characteristics in sound production. The stiffness of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the effective use of RGB lighting in both switches. Thus, users can expect comparable sound experiences and visual effects when using these switches.
In terms of their bottom housing material, the Blue Sky features a nylon construction, while the Cream Yellow also incorporates nylon as its bottom housing material. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches deliver a similar typing experience, with the nylon bottom housing contributing to the overall sound characteristics of the switches.
When considering the impact of the different housing materials on the switches, it is important to note that the qualities of the bottom housing primarily influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. In contrast, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, despite the variations in housing materials, users can still expect some similarities in the overall sound profile and typing experience between the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Cream Yellow.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, we find some similarities between the two. Both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is equal for both. This ensures that users can expect a similar level of responsiveness when using either of these switches.
However, there is a slight difference when it comes to the bottom out force. The Blue Sky has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Cream Yellow has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that the Cream Yellow switch requires a slightly lighter touch to fully depress the keys compared to the Blue Sky switch.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch to enable longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. In this case, both the Blue Sky and Cream Yellow switches offer a medium weight that strikes a balance between a lighter feel and a more substantial typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences. Those seeking a slightly lighter touch for key bottoming out may opt for the Cream Yellow switch, while others who prefer a slightly heavier feel may lean towards the Blue Sky switch. Nonetheless, both switches offer similar actuation forces, ensuring comparable results in terms of responsiveness.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is 4 mm, while the travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is 3.5 mm. This means that the Cream Yellow has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Blue Sky. The Blue Sky, with its 4.0 mm travel distance, falls into the more traditional range, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow's 3.5 mm travel distance is on the shallower end, making it preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances too abrupt, and may prefer the longer travel distance of the Blue Sky for a more satisfying keystroke depth. In summary, if you prioritize faster response times, the Cream Yellow with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice, while those who prefer a more substantial tactile feel may lean towards the Blue Sky with its longer travel distance.
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 KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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. It offers a high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This switch has a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for most purposes. In terms of feel, the Blue Sky switch provides a mild and approachable typing experience. It has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch delivers a distinctively clacky sound. Its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem contribute to a resonant audio feedback, giving the keys a crisp, bright, and percussive sound when pressed. The Cream Yellow switch also offers a bouncy typing feel, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation.
Overall, if you prefer a higher-pitched sound and a smooth typing experience, the Aflion Blue Sky switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you desire a clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow switch would be more appropriate. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. It is important to consider other factors, such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps, which also contribute to the overall sound and feel experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a crystal clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and exquisitely smooth push feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch would be your ideal choice. With its moderate actuation force requirement and neutral sound profile, it is suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings, whether at home or work. Additionally, the Blue Sky offers a mild and polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a distinctively clacky sound with resonant audio feedback and a bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch would suit your preferences. It delivers a sharp, snappy, and percussive sound when pressed. The Cream Yellow switch stands out with its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, providing a unique and lively typing experience.
Ultimately, your choice between the Aflion Blue Sky and KTT Cream Yellow hinges on your desired sound profile and typing feel. Consider the characteristics that align with your preferences and prioritize the overall user experience that suits your needs. Experimenting with different switches can also help you discover your preferred keyboard feel.
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