Aflion Blue Sky vs. TTC Gold Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Blue Sky and the TTC Gold Red, both of which are linear switches. The Blue Sky switch is praised for its crystal clear linear typing experience, thanks to its long pole stem. With a sparkling sound profile and exquisitely smooth push feel, it falls into the categories of high-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished. On the other hand, the Gold Red switch offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. Its snappy sound profile adds a modest touch of personality without being too ostentatious. Categorized as thocky, low-pitched, neutral, mild, silky, subtle, and polished, these switches have their own distinct qualities. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your keyboard setup.

By the numbers

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

TTC Gold Red Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the TTC Gold Red share many similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and visual effects from both the Blue Sky and Gold Red switches due to their polycarbonate top housings.

However, where these switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Blue Sky utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Gold Red also features nylon as its bottom housing material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the bottom housing of each switch will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a distinct typing experience.

In summary, the Aflion Blue Sky and the TTC Gold Red share similar properties when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings, ensuring a consistent sound and visual experience. However, their differences lie in the nylon bottom housings, with the Blue Sky offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nylon material. Overall, while both switches may produce satisfactory results, the choice between the Blue Sky and Gold Red will depend on the user's preference for the specific sound characteristics provided by the bottom housing material.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Blue Sky switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gold Red switch's 43 grams, making it a bit more resistant to accidental keystrokes. Similarly, the Blue Sky requires a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Gold Red only requires 50 grams to fully depress the key. This means that the Blue Sky switch provides a slightly more substantial typing experience due to the higher forces required.

However, if one prefers a lighter switch, both options still provide similar results. The Gold Red switch is considered to be on the lighter side in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. On the other hand, the Blue Sky switch is slightly heavier in comparison.

Considering weight is important as it can affect the typing experience. Some individuals prefer a lighter switch as it allows them to type for longer periods without fatigue, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. Those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces. Overall, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky and TTC Gold Red switches will depend on personal preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Aflion Blue Sky and TTC Gold Red linear switches have similar travel distances of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent and comfortable typing experience with their equal travel distances.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is known for its high-pitched sound profile. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which is ideal for those who prefer a more vibrant and bright sound. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is described as having a thocky sound profile. This means that the Gold Red switches produce a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock". Additionally, the Gold Red switches are considered to have a low-pitched sound, which adds a more bass-heavy and mellow tone to the typing experience. It is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

In terms of feel, both the Aflion Blue Sky and TTC Gold Red switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that the typing feel of these switches is gentle and approachable for most users. Both switches fall within a safe middle-ground zone when it comes to their characteristics. Additionally, both switches are described as being polished. This indicates that they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel of these polished switches further enhance the overall typing feel.

Based on the available information, it can be concluded that the Aflion Blue Sky and TTC Gold Red linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of their sound and feel. The Blue Sky switches provide a high-pitched sound profile, while the Gold Red switches have a thocky sound profile with a low-pitched tone. When it comes to feel, both switches offer a mild typing experience and a polished finish for smooth key travel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and desired typing experience. However, if you prefer a similar sound and feel, both switches fall within the neutral category in terms of their sound profile, offering a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for most intents and purposes.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a crystal clear typing experience, the Aflion Blue Sky switch is the right choice for you. Its long pole stem provides a smooth push feel and the sparkling sound profile adds a touch of elegance to your keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a buttery smooth typing experience, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is the way to go. Its light-medium level of resistance and snappy sound profile add a subtle personality to your keyboard. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your preference for bottom out force, typing experience, and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

TTC Gold Red Linear

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

Learn more