Aflion Blue Sky vs. KTT Lightning

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Lightning offer distinct experiences. The Blue Sky, a linear switch, is best known for its long pole stem, which provides a crystal clear linear typing experience. With a sparkling sound profile and exquisitely smooth push feel, this switch selection falls into the categories of 'High-pitched,' 'Neutral,' 'Mild,' and 'Polished.' On the other hand, the Lightning, also a linear switch, is renowned for its approachable "speed" switch qualities. Perfect for situations where milliseconds can determine victory or defeat, the Lightning offers a slick typing feel with a clacky sound profile. It falls into the categories of 'Clacky,' 'High-pitched,' 'Chirpy,' 'Subtle,' and 'Polished.' However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your preferences.

By the numbers

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

KTT Lightning Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$3.41 per 10

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Housing materials

The Aflion Blue Sky and KTT Lightning both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. It is worth noting that the use of polycarbonate in clear housings is a common practice, making it more likely for both switches to feature this material. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it especially suitable for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using the polycarbonate top housing in both the Blue Sky and Lightning.

However, where these switches differ is in their choice of material for the bottom housing. The Blue Sky utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, while the Lightning also incorporates nylon in its design. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, users will experience a duller and rounder sound when typing on both the Blue Sky and Lightning switches. In this aspect, the two switches share similarities in terms of the sound produced due to the common use of nylon in their bottom housings.

It is important to note that the qualities brought by the housing materials of the Blue Sky and Lightning switches are divided between their respective top and bottom housings. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more pronounced, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the qualities of the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound produced. Therefore, while the overall design and balance may differ, users can anticipate similar results in terms of sound experience, influenced by the combination of different housing materials in the Blue Sky and Lightning switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Blue Sky switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Lightning switch's lighter actuation force of 43 grams. This means that the Blue Sky switch requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Blue Sky switch is also slightly heavier at 60 grams compared to the Lightning switch's 50 grams. Therefore, when it comes to typing experience, the Blue Sky switch offers a more substantial feel with its slightly heavier forces.

However, it is important to note that both switches fall within the medium range for actuation and bottom out forces. This means that even though the Blue Sky switch is heavier, the difference may not be significant enough to provide a drastically different typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter weight and ease of typing, the Lightning switch with its lighter forces may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if a person prefers a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, they may opt for the Blue Sky switch with its slightly heavier forces.

Considering the weight aspect, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue, which is ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, others may find a heavier push more satisfying, providing a sense of stability and precision. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

In terms of travel distance, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm. The Blue Sky switch offers a more traditional travel distance of 4.0mm, which is generally preferred by those who seek a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Lightning switch provides a shallower travel distance of 3.0mm, which is favored by gamers looking for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Lightning switch would be the preferable choice due to its shorter travel distance. However, if you prefer a more robust and tactile typing experience, the Blue Sky switch with its longer travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is best described as having a high-pitched and neutral sound profile. The high-pitched nature of the switch produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more vibrant and clear sound. The neutral sound profile means that it falls in the middle ground in terms of tone and is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced. However, it is important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch offers a clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy sound profile. The clacky nature of the switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving it a crisp, bright, and percussive tone. The high-pitched characteristic also adds to the sharpness and clarity of the sound. Additionally, the switch has a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches. This makes the KTT Lightning a good choice for those who prefer a more distinctive and lively sound experience.

In terms of feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. The mild nature of the switch offers a gentle typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes it more approachable to a wider range of users. The polished finish of the switch ensures a smooth and refined typing experience. This is achieved through materials used and/or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smoother key travel.

Similarly, the KTT Lightning linear switch offers a subtle and polished typing experience. The switch has a gentle resistance, providing a light typing feel that is not overly feather-light. The subtlety of the switch makes it suitable for shared spaces as the sound signature will not be resonant. Like the Blue Sky switch, the Lightning switch also features a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Sky switch provides a high-pitched and neutral sound profile along with a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning switch offers a clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy sound profile, as well as a subtle and polished typing experience. Depending on personal preference, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. It is important to consider other factors such as keyboard board and keycap choices in order to fully optimize the sound and feel of the switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force switch with a crystal clear linear typing experience and a sparkling sound profile, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is the way to go. These switches offer a smooth push feel and a high-pitched sound profile, making them suitable for those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound when typing. Additionally, the Blue Sky switch provides a mild typing experience and a polished finish, resulting in a more gentle and refined typing feel.

On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and need a lighter bottom out force, the KTT Lightning linear switch is the better choice. These switches are designed for situations where every millisecond counts and milliseconds can determine the outcome of your performance. With a slick and clacky type feel, the Lightning switches offer a crisp and bright sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. Furthermore, the Lightning switch provides a subtle typing feel and a polished finish, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction.

Overall, when choosing between the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Lightning linear switches, consider factors such as bottom out force preference, desired sound profile, and preferred typing experience. Whether you prioritize a crystal clear linear typing experience or require a speed-oriented switch, both switches offer unique qualities tailored to different preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

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KTT Lightning Linear

$3.41 per 10

Learn more