Aflion Blue Sky vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Laurel. Both switches fall under the linear category, providing a smooth keystroke experience. The Blue Sky switch is renowned for its crystal clear linear typing experience, thanks to its long pole stem. With a sparkling sound profile and exquisitely smooth push feel, it offers a high-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished sensation. On the other hand, the Laurel switch is known for its medium-light weighted feel and full POM housing, striking the perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort. Notably, it provides a subtly low-pitched sound profile, contributing to a snappy typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and KTT Laurel switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Blue Sky utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is particularly beneficial for switches with clear housing, as its translucency allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Laurel features a POM top housing, which produces an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. The sound profile is deeper and relatively more muted compared to polycarbonate.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Blue Sky incorporates a nylon material, known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Laurel employs a POM bottom housing, which shares similarities with the POM top housing, creating an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. The sound profile is deep and relatively more muted as well.
While both switches have distinct characteristics based on their housing materials, it's important to note the impact of these materials on keypresses. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing materials come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing materials have a more prominent effect on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Blue Sky and Laurel differ in their housing materials, resulting in slightly different sound profiles, their overall performance and user experience may yield similar results due to the split qualities between the top and bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. Firstly, in terms of weight, the Blue Sky switch is heavier than the Laurel switch. The Blue Sky requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a medium level of force. On the other hand, the Laurel switch has a lighter touch, with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Laurel switch would be the better choice as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. This can be advantageous for individuals who type for extended periods, ensuring less strain on their fingers. Alternatively, users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Blue Sky switch, which offers a stronger push feel due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces.
In summary, while the Aflion Blue Sky switch offers a slightly heavier typing feel with its medium actuation and bottom out forces, the KTT Laurel switch provides a lighter touch experience with its lower actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on an individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, it is clear that the Blue Sky has a longer travel distance at 4 mm compared to the Laurel's 3.5 mm. The Blue Sky's 4.0mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, providing a deeper and more satisfying feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Laurel's 3.5 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, appealing to gamers who value quicker response times. These shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular in recent times, catering to those who prioritize speed and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - if you prefer a more hearty and deeper feel, the Blue Sky with its longer travel distance would be a better fit. However, if you prioritize faster response times, the Laurel with its slightly shorter travel distance would 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 Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is best known for its crystal-clear linear typing experience. It offers a sparkling sound profile, described as high-pitched, which produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This sound profile is suitable for those who prefer a more rich and bassy tone in their keyboard switches. The Blue Sky also provides a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, the Blue Sky switch is a great option for those looking for a linear switch with a clear sound and approachable feel.
On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. It features a full POM housing and a short travel distance, allowing for quick and precise keystrokes. The Laurel switch provides a subtly low-pitched sound profile, which means it has a more mellow and bass-heavy tone compared to higher-pitched switches. While the exact sound may also depend on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps, the Laurel switch offers a pleasing auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Laurel switch is described as snappy, indicating its super responsiveness. This is achieved through longer or dual-staged springs, providing a typing experience that feels more alive.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky and KTT Laurel linear switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Sky offers a high-pitched sound profile, delivering a sharp and crisp sound, while the Laurel has a low-pitched sound profile with a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. The Blue Sky provides a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction, while the Laurel is snappy and highly responsive. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. It is worth noting that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. Therefore, it is recommended to consider these factors as well when making a decision.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and a sparkling sound profile, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its long pole stem, you can expect a crystal clear linear typing experience. Additionally, the Blue Sky switch offers a smooth push feel and a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for most intents and purposes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a subtly low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Laurel linear switch would be a better fit. With its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, the Laurel switch strikes the perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort. The low-pitched sound profile of the Laurel switch offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Sky switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. It offers a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, thanks to its smooth and refined finish. On the other hand, the Laurel switch is known for its snappy feel. The responsiveness of the Laurel switch, often attributed to longer or dual-staged springs, brings a more alive typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Laurel switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium bottom out force, sparkling sound profile, and a polished typing experience, the Blue Sky switch would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a lighter switch with a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy feel, the Laurel switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your typing preferences and the characteristics offered by each switch to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard.
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