Aflion Blue Sky vs. KTT Darling
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Darling switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Darling both offer unique typing experiences. The Blue Sky is known for its linear typing experience with a long pole stem, providing a smooth push feel and a sparkling sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Darling offers a more substantial and chewy typing sensation, with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound upon bottoming out. While the Blue Sky is categorized as 'High-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Darling is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', and 'Resonant'. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities that appeal to different preferences. 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
53g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Darling feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. This material is particularly advantageous for switches with RGB lighting as its translucency allows for the illumination to shine through. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of switches results in a more resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, both the Blue Sky and the Darling are likely to provide a similar experience with their polycarbonate top housings.
In contrast, the Blue Sky utilizes a nylon bottom housing while the KTT Darling also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile in switches, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, which can be particularly appealing to those seeking a more muted typing experience. Despite having the same material for their bottom housings, the Blue Sky and the Darling may have slightly different sound profiles due to other factors such as switch design and keycap material.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Darling respectively offer a unique typing experience. The split qualities of the housing materials result in a key press feeling influenced by the bottom housing, while the sound produced upon key release is influenced by the top housing. Whether you prefer a crisper and clearer sound profile with polycarbonate or a deeper and fuller sound with nylon, both switches provide their own distinctive characteristics for users to enjoy.
Weight
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the KTT Darling linear switch with 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Sky requires 60 grams while the Darling only needs 53 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range, providing a balanced typing experience. The weight of the switches is crucial as it can impact typing endurance and the overall feel of the keyboard. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Darling for extended typing sessions, while others may enjoy the more substantial push feel of the Blue Sky. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the KTT Darling linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Sky has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Darling which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Although both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the slight variation may be noticeable to some users. The longer travel distance of the Blue Sky may provide a more substantial keypress feel, which some users may prefer for a more robust typing experience. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Darling may appeal to users looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 that delivers a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Darling linear switch provides a clacky and resonant sound, bringing a sharp and snappy experience with a higher-pitched tone. Each switch offers its unique auditory feedback, with the Blue Sky leaning towards a more neutral sound while the Darling delivers a more engaging and dynamic sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blue Sky switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and smooth feel that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the KTT Darling switch is characterized by a bouncy sensation, providing a springy and elastic feedback that gives a lively feel to each keystroke. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences, with the Blue Sky focusing on a refined and polished feel while the Darling emphasizes a lively and bouncing sensation.
Overall, the Aflion Blue Sky and KTT Darling linear switches offer contrasting yet equally satisfying typing experiences. The Blue Sky excels in providing a clear and linear typing experience with a high-pitched and neutral sound profile, coupled with a mild and polished feel. In contrast, the KTT Darling delivers a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a clacky and resonant sound profile, enhanced by a bouncy and springy feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch or the KTT Darling linear switch, there are a few factors to consider. If you value a crystal clear, linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel, the Blue Sky may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a typing sensation that feels chewy and substantial, with bouncy and springy responsiveness, along with a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, then the Darling switch could be the one for you. Ultimately, your decision may come down to whether you prefer a medium or medium-light bottom out force, as well as the specific sound and feel characteristics that best suit your typing preferences.
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