Aflion Blue Sky vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and TTC Gold Brown Pro present two distinct options for users seeking different typing experiences. The Blue Sky linear switch provides a clear and smooth typing experience, with a high-pitched sound profile and a neutral feel. In contrast, the Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offers a subtle tactile bump, allowing for a more nuanced typing experience with a low-pitched and understated sound profile. While the Blue Sky switch is ideal for those who prefer a polished and linear feel, the Gold Brown Pro switch caters to individuals who value a subtle and immersive typing experience. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches using RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this material for their top housings, they may differ in other aspects like the bottom housing material.
Both switches also feature nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This combination of a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound and a nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound creates a unique typing experience for both the Blue Sky and Gold Brown Pro switches. The split qualities of the top and bottom housing materials further enhance the overall sound and feel of these switches.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, the Aflion Blue Sky and TTC Gold Brown Pro switches may produce similar results in terms of sound and feel due to their shared polycarbonate top housing. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, combined with the influence of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key, creates a well-rounded typing experience for enthusiasts and professionals alike. Overall, both switches offer a blend of materials that contribute to a high-quality and impressive typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, it's evident that the Blue Sky requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gold Brown Pro's 45 grams. This means that the Blue Sky will provide a slightly more resistant feel when typing. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Sky has a higher force of 60 grams, while the Gold Brown Pro's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Blue Sky can be considered as the heavier option, which may appeal to users looking for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro's lighter actuation force could be preferable for those aiming for longer typing sessions with less finger fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Gold Brown Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Blue Sky. The 0.2 mm may seem like a small difference, but for some users, it can make a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. Those who prefer faster response times may opt for the Gold Brown Pro, while users who enjoy a more substantial keypress may be more inclined towards the Blue Sky. Both switches provide a decent balance between travel distance and responsiveness, so choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 and sharp sound profile, providing a crisp typing experience that is distinct and noticeable. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch produces a thocky and low-pitched sound, creating a deep and rich auditory feedback that is pleasing to the ears. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various settings and preferences, ensuring that whether you prefer a more high-pitched or low-pitched sound, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and enhances the overall typing feel. Meanwhile, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch boasts a polished and silky feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance and ensures a comfortable typing feel. Both switches also have mild and subtle characteristics, creating a gentle typing experience that is suitable for most individuals who prefer a middle-ground tactile sensation.
Overall, while the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both excel in providing a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer a high-pitched linear switch with a crystal clear sound profile or a low-pitched tactile switch with a thocky sound profile, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal taste in sound and feel, but rest assured that you will get similar levels of quality and performance regardless of your decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a crystal clear linear typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a high-pitched sound profile, the Blue Sky may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle tactile bump with a gentle typing feel and a low-pitched, thocky sound profile, the Gold Brown Pro could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize smooth linear typing or nuanced tactile feedback in your mechanical keyboard switches. Consider these factors to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences.