Aflion Blue Sky vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow, both of which belong to the linear switch category. The Blue Sky is renowned for its long pole stem, offering users a crystal clear linear typing experience. This switch selection boasts a sparkling sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is known for being a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. Typing on these switches produces a higher pitched clacky sound profile and a fairly bouncy type feel. While these general descriptions can give you an idea of what to expect, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best switch choice for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow share many similarities. Both switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when comparing the top housings of these two switches.
However, when we turn our attention to the bottom housings, the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow differ in materials. The Blue Sky features a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's relatively softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow incorporates a nylon bottom housing as well, boasting similar qualities in terms of sound profile. Thus, whether it is typing on the Blue Sky or the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, users can expect to experience a more immersive sound due to the characteristics of the nylon bottom housing.
In terms of the overall impact on the switch's performance, the housing materials of both the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow play specific roles. While the bottom housing contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel when the user presses down on the key, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of both switches ensures a clear and resonant sound when the keys are released, while the softer nylon bottom housing enhances the typing experience by creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, whether users opt for the Blue Sky or the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, they can expect a superior auditory experience due to the thoughtful combination of different housing materials in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, we find some similarities and differences. Both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams, meaning the force required to trigger a keystroke is identical. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of responsiveness and sensitivity. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a distinction between the two switches. The Blue Sky has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls into the medium category, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch requires slightly more pressure to fully depress the key compared to the Blue Sky switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Blue Sky switch may be more suitable, as it offers a lighter bottom out force. On the other hand, if a user prefers a sturdier and more substantial keystroke, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance. The travel distance is the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, and in this case, both switches have been designed to provide a consistent and equal travel experience. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance when using either the Aflion Blue Sky or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 Blue Sky linear switch is best known for its crystal clear linear typing experience, offering a sparkling sound profile and exquisitely smooth push feel. It has a high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with a safe middle-ground feel and reduced friction for smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is renowned for its budget-friendly excellence. When typing on these switches, they produce a higher pitched clacky sound profile and a fairly bouncy type feel. The sound profile is high-pitched and resonant, offering a sharp and immersive auditory experience. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow also has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, it offers a creamy sensation, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience.
Based on the available information, the Blue Sky and G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches differ in their sound profiles, with the Blue Sky offering a high-pitched and neutral profile, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a high-pitched and resonant sound profile. In terms of feel, both switches share a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Blue Sky offers a mild typing experience, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a creamy sensation for a smooth and buttery feel.
Overall, while the Blue Sky and G Pro 3.0 Yellow have distinct sound profiles, they share similarities in their polished feel. The Blue Sky offers a crystal clear linear typing experience, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out as a budget-friendly option. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide satisfying typing experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a crystal clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and exquisitely smooth push feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is the one for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile. The Blue Sky switch is also described as having a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that still delivers excellent performance, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is a great choice. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a fairly bouncy type feel and a higher pitched clacky sound profile. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is also described as having a polished and creamy feel, providing a sleek typing experience with smooth and buttery key presses.
Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you prioritize a crystal clear typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel, the Blue Sky is the way to go. If you are on a budget and prefer a higher pitched clacky sound profile with a polished, creamy feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the better option. Consider your typing style, desired auditory experience, and overall typing comfort when making your decision.