Aflion Blue Sky vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up for consideration are the Aflion Blue Sky and the Durock Lupine. The Blue Sky is a linear switch with a long pole stem, known for offering a crystal clear typing experience and an exquisitely smooth push feel. It has a high-pitched, neutral sound profile and falls under the category of being mild and polished. On the other hand, the Lupine is also a linear switch but stands out with its two-stage long springs. Typing on the Lupine switch provides a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. The Lupine emits a classic clacky sound profile while in use and is categorized as neutral, mild, high-pitched, and polished. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Durock Lupine, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in similar sound profiles, with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate is also beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a more visually appealing experience. Therefore, in terms of top housing, users can expect similar results from both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Aflion Blue Sky employs nylon, while the Durock Lupine also utilizes nylon as its bottom housing material. This common material choice creates a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users typing on either switch can anticipate a similar experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel.
Considering the overall impact of the housing materials, the Aflion Blue Sky and the Durock Lupine both offer a balance between bottom-out and letting-go sounds due to the different materials used for their top and bottom housings. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while there may be some variation, users can still expect both switches to deliver satisfying and distinct auditory feedback during their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, both switches fall within the medium range. The Blue Sky has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Lupine's actuation force is currently unknown and has a bottom out force of 62 grams. Despite the disparity in the actuation force, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Blue Sky may be the more suitable option due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. Conversely, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Lupine provides a slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Blue Sky switch offers a slightly deeper keystroke, while the Lupine switch provides a slightly shallower keystroke. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may opt for the Lupine switch with its shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more substantial keystroke and a sense of depth may find the Blue Sky switch more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired 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 Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is best described as having a high-pitched profile. This means that it produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which may be preferred by those who don't enjoy rich and bassy sound profiles. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch also has a neutral sound profile. This means that it falls in the middle ground, offering a moderate sound that suits most intents and purposes. Both switches provide different sound experiences, so the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and the other factors affecting sound production, such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Blue Sky and Lupine switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a gentle and approachable feel while typing, without any pronounced characteristics. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, meaning they have a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The similarities in the feel of both switches make them suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced typists.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch stands out for its crystal clear linear typing experience and high-pitched sound profile, while the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a treat to type on due to its two-stage long springs and classic clacky sound profile. Both switches provide a mild typing experience and a polished feel. The main difference lies in the sound profile, with the Blue Sky being high-pitched and the Lupine having a neutral sound. Nonetheless, for those seeking similar results, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience with smooth key travel. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, both the Aflion Blue Sky and the Durock Lupine are solid options. The Blue Sky's long pole stem offers a smooth and crystal clear typing experience, along with a high-pitched or neutral sound profile and a mild and polished feel. On the other hand, the Lupine's two-stage long springs provide a consistent weight distribution and a powerful rebound, resulting in a classic clacky sound profile. The Lupine also has a neutral sound profile and a mild and polished feel. Ultimately, your choice between the Blue Sky and the Lupine should depend on whether you prefer a sparkling or clacky sound profile, as well as the specific feel you desire. Both switches are suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced, and will provide you with an enjoyable typing experience at home or work.
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