Aflion Blue Sky vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the Aflion Blue Sky and the TTC Gold Red Pro, both of which are linear switches. The Blue Sky is celebrated for its long pole stem, providing users with a crystal clear linear typing experience that is complemented by a sparkling sound profile and a smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro is praised for its versatility, offering a seamless typing experience with an ease of press that caters to users of all preferences. While the Blue Sky is categorized as 'High-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Gold Red Pro falls under categories such as 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Silky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Subtle'. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your specific needs and 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the TTC Gold Red Pro are quite similar, with both featuring polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. Both switches offer a similar sound experience due to their polycarbonate top housings.
However, where they differ is in their bottom housings. The Blue Sky features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches, with the Blue Sky offering a deeper sound compared to the Gold Red Pro.
Overall, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky and the TTC Gold Red Pro may come down to personal preference in sound profile. While both switches offer the sharp, higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate top housings, the Blue Sky's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Gold Red Pro. Whether you prefer a clearer and resonant sound or a duller and rounder sound may influence your decision between these two switches.
Weight
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the TTC Gold Red Pro's 43 grams, making the Gold Red Pro the lighter of the two. However, the bottom out force for the Blue Sky is 60 grams, while the Gold Red Pro's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Blue Sky requires a bit more force to fully press down the key compared to the Gold Red Pro. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Gold Red Pro for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the stronger push feel of the Blue Sky for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch both have relatively short travel distances compared to traditional mechanical keyboard switches. The Blue Sky has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gold Red Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches offer a quick and responsive typing experience favored by gamers and those looking for fast response times. The slightly shorter travel distance of the Gold Red Pro may appeal to those seeking an even quicker key press, while the Blue Sky's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a bit more depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Red 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 Red 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 is known for its high-pitched profile, offering a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch provides a neutral sound signature, neither too pronounced nor too muted, making it suitable for any auditory environment. While the Blue Sky switch caters to those who prefer a more distinct sound, the Gold Red Pro switch appeals to a wider audience with its versatile and harmonious sound profile.
In terms of feel, both the Blue Sky and Gold Red Pro switches are described as polished switches, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Blue Sky switch offers a mild and polished feel, positioning itself as a safe, middle-ground option for most users. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro switch adds a silky and subtle touch to its typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance during key presses. Both switches provide a comfortable and gentle typing experience that is sure to please a variety of users.
Overall, while the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch stands out for its high-pitched sound profile and polished yet mild feel, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch shines with its versatile, neutral sound signature and smooth, silky typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, either switch offers a top-quality linear typing experience with unique characteristics that cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. With either option, users can expect a satisfying typing experience that meets their specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, you should consider your preference for the typing experience and sound profile. If you are looking for a switch with a crystal clear linear typing experience and a high-pitched sound profile, the Blue Sky switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a versatile switch with a neutral sound profile and a thocky, low-pitched sound, the Gold Red Pro switch could be the better option. Additionally, if you prioritize ease of press and adaptability, the Gold Red Pro switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific environment or usage scenario in which you will be typing.
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