Aflion Blue Sky vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offer unique typing experiences worth considering. The Blue Sky switch is praised for its crystal clear linear typing experience, featuring a long pole stem that provides a smooth push feel and a sparkling sound profile. On the other hand, the Lavender Purple Pro switch stands out for its satisfying tactile bump and higher-pitched sound profile, offering a delightful typing experience for enthusiasts. While the Blue Sky switch may appeal to those seeking a neutral and mild typing experience, the Lavender Purple Pro switch is ideal for those looking for a bouncy and snappy feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
The Aflion Blue Sky and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a clear and resonant sound when typing on switches with polycarbonate top housings. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting. However, the nylon bottom housing of both switches offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings.
While both the Blue Sky and the V3 Lavender Purple Pro share similar qualities in their top and bottom housings, the different materials used for each housing create distinct sound profiles when typing on the switches. The Blue Sky's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing allows for a balance between sharpness and depth in the sound produced. In comparison, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's use of polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom results in a similar contrast between clarity and fullness in sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for sound characteristics.
In terms of construction, the Blue Sky and the V3 Lavender Purple Pro showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the acoustics of a switch. The split between top and bottom housings means that each material contributes different qualities to the overall typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when bottoming out keys, influencing the sound and feel at that moment. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. By understanding the properties of each housing material, keyboard enthusiasts can choose switches that best suit their desired sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, we find that the Blue Sky requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Lavender Purple Pro's 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Blue Sky also requires a higher force of 60 grams compared to the Lavender Purple Pro's 55 grams. The Blue Sky linear switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, while the Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch provides a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing feel. ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for lighter or heavier typing experiences.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm. This makes the V3 Lavender Purple Pro slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the Blue Sky. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Blue Sky being slightly on the longer side. Gamers may prefer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Blue Sky with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 linear switch is characterized by a high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp noise when pressed, perfect for those who prefer a more vibrant auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch's sound profile is not explicitly stated, so it may offer a different sound experience. When it comes to feel, the Blue Sky switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering gentle keypresses with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and also polished, indicating a tactile feedback that is prominent but not overwhelming, with keys that feel lively and responsive.
Overall, while the Blue Sky and Lavender Purple Pro switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, both switches seem to provide a polished typing experience with smooth key travel. Depending on personal preferences for sound profile and tactility, individuals can choose between the high-pitched linear experience of the Blue Sky switch or the potentially more tactile and bouncy feel of the Lavender Purple Pro switch. Ultimately, both switches promise an enjoyable typing journey for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a refined and smooth typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a crystal clear linear typing experience with a medium bottom out force 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 delightful tactile typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force and a satisfying tactile bump, the Lavender Purple Pro switch might be more appealing. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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