Aflion Blue Sky vs. Aflion Foggy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and the Aflion Foggy Shadow present two distinct options for users. The Blue Sky is a linear switch known for its crystal clear typing experience, thanks to its long pole stem that provides a smooth push feel and a sparkling sound profile. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow is a tactile switch that offers a light tactile bump and a 63.5g bottom-out force, striking a balance between weight and performance. While the Blue Sky is categorized as 'High-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished', the Foggy Shadow falls under 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and advantages, but ultimately, the choice between them will depend on individual preferences and typing habits. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Blue Sky and Aflion Foggy Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This material is also ideal for switches with RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housings.
While the top housings of the Blue Sky and Foggy Shadow are identical in material and properties, the difference lies in their bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of both switches brings a unique sound profile when typing, with a deeper and fuller sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing. This split in housing materials allows for a balanced typing experience, where the qualities of both materials can be felt and heard depending on the phase of the keystroke. The impact of the bottom housing is more noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky and Aflion Foggy Shadow offer a mix of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials to create a unique typing experience. While the top housings are the same with polycarbonate for a sharper sound profile, the difference in bottom housings with nylon provides a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This combination allows for a well-rounded sound experience, with each housing material playing a distinct role in the overall sound profile of the switches.
Weight
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Sky requires 60 grams while the Foggy Shadow requires 63.5 grams, making it slightly heavier. Both switches fall under the medium category in terms of actuation force, but the Foggy Shadow is considered medium-heavy for bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the Blue Sky may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, while the heavier bottom out force of the Foggy Shadow provides a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Blue Sky switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Foggy Shadow switch. A longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper keypress, while a shorter travel distance can offer quicker response times for tasks such as gaming. Both switches offer different advantages depending on individual preferences, with the Blue Sky switch providing a deeper keypress and the Foggy Shadow switch offering a slightly quicker response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user values a longer or shorter 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 Aflion Foggy Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Foggy Shadow for $3.91.
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 Blue Sky linear switch offers a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more vibrant typing experience. In contrast, the Foggy Shadow tactile switch provides a low-pitched, bass-heavy, and mellow tone, giving a soothing typing sound that may appeal to users aiming for a quieter environment. Both switches fall under the neutral sound category, making them versatile options suitable for various settings.
In terms of feel, the Blue Sky linear switch delivers a mild and polished typing experience, maintaining a gentle feel with a smooth push that caters to a wide range of users. On the other hand, details regarding the feel of the Foggy Shadow tactile switch are unspecified, leaving room for interpretation based on its light tactile bump and medium weight. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and balanced typing experience, showcasing Aflion's dedication to creating switches that meet diverse preferences.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch stands out for its high-pitched sound and mild, polished feel, offering a crystal clear linear typing experience with a smooth push. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch features a low-pitched sound and a light tactile bump, emphasizing a quieter and softer typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup with distinct characteristics that cater to different typing styles.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a smooth and linear typing experience with a medium bottom-out force, the Blue Sky switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light tactile bump and a slightly heavier bottom-out force, the Foggy Shadow switch would be better suited to your typing preferences. Additionally, take into account the sound profile you prefer, as the Blue Sky offers a high-pitched sound while the Foggy Shadow provides a low-pitched tone. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and preference for sound and tactile feedback.
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