Aflion Blue Sky vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Kang White are two notable options to consider. The Blue Sky is renowned for its long pole stem, providing a crystal clear linear typing experience. With a sparkling sound profile and exquisitely smooth push feel, this switch falls into the categories of high-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished. On the other hand, the Kang White stands out as a poppy linear switch, offering a dazzling typing sound. What sets it apart is its self-lubricating material, which ensures an unparalleled smoothness while typing. Categorized as low-pitched and neutral, the Kang White provides a unique sensory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on which switch is best suited for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Kang White switches share many similarities, particularly in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Both switches benefit from the translucent nature of polycarbonate, making it ideal for RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic benefits from the switches' polycarbonate top housings.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Blue Sky utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Kang White also employs nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This means that typing on the Kang White switch will elicit a more round and dull sound, compared to the Blue Sky's nylon bottom housing which offers a deeper and fuller sound experience.
Considering the impact of the housing materials on the switch's sound and feel, it's important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ, the qualities of each material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. Pressing down on the switch will primarily showcase the characteristics of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a more prominent influence on the sound when a key is released. Therefore, users can expect differences in the sound and feel of the Aflion Blue Sky and KTT Kang White switches, particularly in terms of their bottom-out and release sounds.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, there are a few key similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, both switches fall into the medium category, with the Blue Sky having an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Kang White has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Kang White switch would be the better option, as it requires slightly less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. This lighter actuation force can be beneficial for prolonged typing sessions or extensive gaming, as it reduces the strain on the fingers and allows for more comfortable usage over extended periods.
On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience might lean towards the Blue Sky switch. With a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force, this switch provides a stronger push feel, making each keystroke feel more deliberate and satisfying. This can be particularly appealing to those who enjoy a more responsive and tactile typing sensation.
In summary, while both the Aflion Blue Sky and KTT Kang White switches fall into the medium category in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, the Kang White is slightly lighter, while the Blue Sky offers a heavier and more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for either a lighter or heavier push feel while typing.
Travel distance
When comparing and contrasting the travel distance of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, we find that both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, the distance you feel will be the same. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.
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 KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Blue Sky 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 bright and clear typing sound. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches, however, have a neutral sound profile, which means they offer a moderate actuation force requirement and are suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and regardless of where you plan to use them. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps you choose to pair them with.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Blue Sky switch offers a mild typing experience. This means that it provides a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls within a safe middle-ground zone, making it suitable for most users. Additionally, the Blue Sky switch is described as polished, which indicates a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, thanks to either the materials used or factory lubing. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the feel of the KTT Kang White switch.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky and KTT Kang White switches have some notable differences in their subjective qualities. The Blue Sky switch is known for its high-pitched sound profile and mild, polished feel, offering a crystal clear linear typing experience with a smooth push. On the other hand, the Kang White switch has a low-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow typing sound. While information about the feel of the Kang White switch is not available, both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. Ultimately, it's important to consider your personal preferences and the specific characteristics you are looking for in a switch in order to make the best choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, both the Aflion Blue Sky and KTT Kang White switches are great options. The Blue Sky switches offer a crystal clear linear typing experience and a sparkling sound profile, making them suitable for those who prefer a high-pitched sound. These switches also provide an exquisitely smooth push feel and have a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Kang White switches are known for their poppy linear switch and dazzling typing sound. They have a low-pitched sound profile and self-lubricating material, resulting in unparalleled smoothness when typing. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and can be used in various settings, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Blue Sky and KTT Kang White switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel.