Aflion Blue Sky vs. Durock Light Tactile

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Blue Sky, a linear switch, and the Durock Light Tactile, a tactile switch. The Blue Sky switch is best known for its long pole stem, offering a crystal clear linear typing experience. With a sparkling sound profile and exquisitely smooth push feel, it falls into the category of being high-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch from Durock stands out for its super gentle tactility, which provides a refreshing contrast to sharper tactile switches on the market. Users can enjoy an angelic tactility and a jelly-like sound signature with this switch, which is categorized as neutral, mild, and polished. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

Durock Light Tactile Tactile

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Durock Light Tactile are quite similar. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a relatively stiffer plastic, creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the top housing's translucency is ideal for RGB lighting enthusiasts. Ultimately, both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the switches differ. The Blue Sky utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Light Tactile also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that typing on both switches will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile, further emphasizing the similarities between the two switches.

Considering the impact of the different housing materials, the qualities they bring to the switches are divided between the top and bottom. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while both switches may have similar top and bottom housing materials overall, the distribution of these materials affects the specific characteristics of pressing down and releasing keys, giving each switch its unique touch and sound experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, there are noticeable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, both switches fall under the medium category. The Blue Sky has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. The slightly higher actuation force of the Light Tactile may provide a marginally stronger push feel compared to the Blue Sky, but both switches offer a similar typing experience within the medium range. Those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming might find the Blue Sky more suitable. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing sensation may lean towards the Light Tactile with its slightly heavier forces. Overall, depending on personal preference, both switches offer reliable actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different typists' needs.

Travel distance

The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch have identical travel distances of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys, both switches will travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. Therefore, users can expect to experience a similar feel and tactile feedback when using either of these switches. Whether it is for gaming or typing purposes, both switches offer the same level of comfort and responsiveness in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a high-pitched sound profile. This means that when pressed, these switches produce a sharp and crisp sound. If you prefer a keyboard switch with a more rich and bassy sound profile, the Blue Sky might not be your best choice. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile which is suitable for most intents and purposes. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, or if you plan to use the switch at home or work, the Light Tactile switch will offer a comfortable sound experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, both the Aflion Blue Sky and the Durock Light Tactile switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of these switches will be approachable to most users as they stand in a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating that they have a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The materials used and/or factory lubing contribute to the polished feel of these switches.

In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky and Durock Light Tactile switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Sky switch provides a high-pitched sound profile, which produces a sharp and crisp sound. It also offers a mild and polished typing experience, ensuring smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch from Durock has a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various uses. It also provides a mild and polished typing experience, making it comfortable to use. While each switch has its own unique characteristics, they both offer a similar mild and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch, you would want to choose it for its crystal clear linear typing experience. These switches offer a sparkling sound profile and exquisitely smooth push feel, making them a great option for those who prefer a clean and linear typing experience. Additionally, if you prefer a high-pitched sound when typing, the Blue Sky switches would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a gentle and angelic tactility, along with a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch would be the way to go. With its super gentle tactility, these switches offer a welcome contrast to the sharper tactile switches in the market. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. Furthermore, both switches provide a mild and polished typing experience, ensuring that the sound and feel are approachable to most users. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky and Durock Light Tactile switches depends on personal preference for linear typing experience or gentle tactility.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

Durock Light Tactile Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more