Aflion Blue Sky vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Aflion Blue Sky and the Dareu Master mechanical keyboard switches, you have two linear options to consider. The Blue Sky switch stands out for its long pole stem, delivering a crystal clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch offers a medium weight feel with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation. While the Blue Sky is categorized as 'High-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished', the Master falls under 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Polished' categories. Each switch has its own unique features that may cater to different preferences. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Blue Sky and Dareu Master differ in their housing materials, particularly in their top housings. The Blue Sky utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This results in a clearer and more resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Master features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials contribute to a unique sound experience, the polycarbonate of the Blue Sky offers a crisper sound compared to the deeper tones of POM in the Master.
In terms of bottom housings, the Blue Sky is equipped with a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Master's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound experience. Both switches benefit from the unique sound profiles created by their respective bottom housing materials, allowing users to enjoy a satisfying typing experience with distinct tones and feel.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Blue Sky and Master differ in terms of top and bottom housings, they both aim to provide an enjoyable and unique sound profile for users. The polycarbonate top housing of the Blue Sky offers a crisper sound compared to the POM top housing of the Master, while both switches utilize bottom housings that contribute to deeper and fuller sound profiles. Whether it's the sharpness of polycarbonate or the deeper tones of POM, users can expect an enhanced typing experience with either switch, tailored to their preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Sky is heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Master is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams. The bottom out force for the Master is unknown. The actuation force of the Blue Sky falls into the medium range, providing a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Master offers a lighter actuation force, which may appeal to those who prefer a less strenuous typing feel. With regards to bottom out force, the Blue Sky requires a bit more force to fully press the key, while the Master's bottom out force remains a mystery. Depending on individual preferences for typing experience, one may choose the Blue Sky for a more substantial feel or the Master for a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may depend on whether one prefers a heavier or lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Blue Sky has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Master, making it more traditional in feel. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter 3.4 mm travel distance of the Master switch. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt and prefer the more substantial depth provided by the 4 mm travel distance of the Blue Sky switch. In conclusion, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for travel distance and responsiveness.
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 Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 offers a high-pitched and crisp sound when pressed, making it ideal for those who prefer sharp and clear sound profiles. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch produces a clacky and sharp sound that is described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Both switches offer distinctive sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Blue Sky leaning towards a higher-pitched tone while the Master provides a classic clacky sound signature.
In terms of feel, both the Aflion Blue Sky and the Dareu Master linear switches offer a mild typing experience with a smooth and polished finish. This results in a gentle and refined keypress with reduced friction and smooth key travel for both switches. The feel of both switches is approachable to most users, as they fall within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of typing experience. Users can expect a consistent and pleasant feel when typing on keyboards with either the Blue Sky or the Master linear switches.
Overall, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel, providing users with a pleasant and smooth typing experience with distinctive sound profiles. Whether you prefer a high-pitched sound with crystal clear linear typing like the Blue Sky or a clacky sound with exceptional smoothness like the Master, both switches deliver on their promises of quality and performance. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and slight variations in typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, you should consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a crystal clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile, the Blue Sky switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium weight switch that provides a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation, the Master switch from Dareu would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the typing experience offered by the Blue Sky or the sound and feel provided by the Master.
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