Aflion Blue Sky vs. TTC Ice
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the TTC Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, users often find themselves torn between options that cater to different preferences, and two compelling choices in the realm of linear switches are the Aflion Blue Sky and the TTC Ice. The Blue Sky is renowned for its long pole stem, delivering a uniquely smooth and polished typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile that adds a touch of sparkle to each keystroke. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a well-defined auditory feedback along with top-tier responsiveness. In contrast, the TTC Ice boasts a stunning transparent design that not only looks striking but also offers a smooth, tactile feel accompanied by a satisfying bottom-out sound. This makes it a prime option for both gamers and everyday typists seeking a premium experience. Although both switches present their own unique advantages—one focusing on a crystalline sound and polished feedback, and the other on visual appeal and well-rounded performance—each serves different user preferences perfectly. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal typing or gaming style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the TTC Ice, notable similarities and differences emerge that influence both sound and aesthetic qualities. Both the Blue Sky's and the Ice's top housings are constructed from polycarbonate, a material recognized for its stiffness. This similarity ensures that both switches produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile during usage. The inherent translucency of polycarbonate also enhances the visual experience, particularly for users who employ RGB lighting, making both switches ideal choices for aesthetically appealing builds. The clarity of sound and light diffusion provided by polycarbonate is thus a shared attribute that contributes positively to the overall performance of both switch models.
However, the housing materials diverge significantly in their bottom components, which are crucial to the overall sound and feel of a switch. The Blue Sky utilizes a nylon bottom housing, allowing for a deep and full sound profile. This is largely due to nylon’s softer and more absorbent nature, which dampens sound waves and creates a more rounded auditory experience. Conversely, the Ice features a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing, leading to a sound profile that mirrors the crispness of the upper housing. As a result, while both switches may share a similar sonic clarity in their upper registers due to their polycarbonate tops, the Blue Sky benefits from a richness provided by its nylon base, contrasting sharply with the Ice's more consistent high-pitched deliverance.
The impact of these materials becomes especially apparent when considering the mechanics of switch function. The nylon bottom housing of the Blue Sky amplifies the sound and feel of the bottom-out experience, offering a unique tactile sensation that enhances typing feedback and comfort. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom of the Ice reinforces the top housing’s character, creating a harmonized sound profile that may feel brighter but lacks the depth associated with nylon. Thus, while both switches can produce satisfying auditory experiences, the tactile and auditory dynamics will differ significantly due to the contrasting bottom housing materials, underscoring the important relationship between housing compositions and user experience.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, the actuation and bottom-out forces highlight some interesting distinctions. The Blue Sky switch features an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Ice switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Ice switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke, making it a more suitable option for users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing sessions or gaming. Both switches have the same bottom-out force of 60 grams, indicating that the amount of force needed to press the switch down completely is identical, which provides a similar tactile return upon bottoming out. In summary, for those seeking a lighter touch, the TTC Ice switch would be preferable due to its lower actuation force, while both offer a comparable bottom-out experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, we can observe a notable difference. The Aflion Blue Sky features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the more traditional switch characteristics, offering a deeper and heftier feel for those who appreciate a more substantial actuation. In contrast, the TTC Ice switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to gamers and users who favor quicker key presses for faster response times. This shorter travel distance can lead to a more responsive typing or gaming experience, although some users may find it feels a bit abrupt compared to the Blue Sky's longer throw. Ultimately, if you are seeking a switch with a more profound actuation, the Aflion Blue Sky is the better choice, while the TTC Ice appeals to those who prioritize speed and agility in their keystrokes.
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 Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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 switch stands out with its high-pitched and neutral sound profiles. The high-pitched aspect produces a sharp and crisp sound that many users find appealing, especially if they prefer a lighter, more airy auditory experience over heavier, bassier sounds often found in other switches. This makes it particularly suitable for those who might want to avoid overwhelming noise while typing in quieter environments. In contrast, the TTC Ice switch does not have specific sound descriptions available. However, sound characteristics can also vary based on the keyboard build and keycap material, meaning the Ice switch's actual auditory performance may also be influenced by those factors.
In terms of feel, the Blue Sky switches are characterized by a mild and polished sensation. The mild setting allows for a gentler typing experience that remains approachable for both beginners and seasoned typists. Meanwhile, the polished aspect indicates a smooth and refined finish, reducing friction and allowing for sleek key travel that users might appreciate during extended typing sessions. The specific feel qualities of the TTC Ice switch are not provided, leaving a gap in direct comparison, though it's likely that both switches aim for a responsive and enjoyable typing experience.
Overall, while the Aflion Blue Sky switch offers specific sound and feel characteristics that appeal to a wide audience, the TTC Ice switch's unique qualities remain more ambiguous. For anyone looking for a smooth linear switch experience, both options will likely provide satisfying results, but the Blue Sky’s clarity in sound and feel gives it a slight edge for those who prioritize these aspects. The choice ultimately depends on personal preference, and potential users may find that both switches deliver enjoyable performance depending on their specific typing conditions and styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and intended use. If you favor a switch that provides a crystal clear typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile, and you appreciate a polished feel that is smooth yet gentle, the Blue Sky would be an excellent choice. This switch is particularly suitable for those who use their keyboard in quieter environments, such as office settings, where sound might be a consideration. Conversely, if you seek a switch that balances responsiveness with a satisfying bottom-out sound, the TTC Ice is a strong contender. Its transparent design enhances the aesthetic of your keyboard while maintaining a solid typing experience, making it ideal for both gaming and everyday use. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by how each switch aligns with your typing habits, sound preferences, and the setting in which you’ll be using your keyboard.
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