Aflion Blue Sky vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch to the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, there are several key differences to consider. 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 smooth push feel. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red maintains the classic characteristics of the MX Red but operates silently, providing a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the satisfying feel. The Blue Sky switch falls under the categories of 'High-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', while the MX Silent Red is categorized as 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences and needs. 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Cherry MX Silent Red, it is evident that both switches incorporate nylon in their bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to stiffer plastics like polycarbonate. Therefore, the typing experience on both switches' bottom housings is likely to produce a similar dull and round sound. This makes them suitable choices for users who prefer a quieter typing experience without compromising on the overall feel of the switch.
On the other hand, the Blue Sky utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is in contrast to the MX Silent Red's nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound. While polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that resonates more clearly, nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, leading to a duller sound profile. Consequently, the top housing of the Blue Sky is more likely to produce a louder and crisper sound compared to the MX Silent Red. Additionally, the use of RGB lighting is more vibrant with the Blue Sky due to the translucency of polycarbonate.
In considering the impact of the housing materials on the typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities brought by each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, users can expect a combination of the sharper, crisper sound from the Blue Sky's polycarbonate top housing and the deeper, fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing in both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Blue Sky and the MX Silent Red will depend on personal preferences regarding sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, one notable difference is in the actuation force. The Blue Sky requires 50 grams of force to actuate a key, while the MX Silent Red needs 45 grams. This makes the MX Silent Red the lighter option when it comes to triggering keystrokes. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Blue Sky requires 60 grams, whereas the MX Silent Red force is unknown. This means that the Blue Sky has a heavier bottom out force compared to the MX Silent Red. In terms of weight preferences, those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the MX Silent Red, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the Blue Sky.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, we can see that the Blue Sky has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the MX Silent Red has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the MX Silent Red the shorter option in terms of travel distance. A 0.3 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and response of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the MX Silent Red, while others who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the longer travel distance of the Blue Sky. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth 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 Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 comparing the sound of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, the Blue Sky switch is best known for its high-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp typing experience that may appeal to those looking for a more distinct sound. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red switch offers a muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the satisfaction of a deep, rich sound. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, catering to different preferences and environments.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Blue Sky switch is recognized for its mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and smooth key travel that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, indicating a more noticeable friction when pressed, which may appeal to users who prefer a tactile feedback while typing. Despite the difference in feel, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Blue Sky switch offering a polished and refined feel, while the MX Silent Red switch provides a textured sensation for added tactility.
In conclusion, when considering the subjective qualities of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches offer distinct sound and feel experiences that cater to different preferences. While the Blue Sky switch provides a high-pitched and polished typing experience, the MX Silent Red switch offers a muted and textured feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, with both options guaranteeing a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience. Additionally, since both switches are linear, users can expect a similar smooth keystroke without tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider the qualities that best fit your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel, then the Blue Sky switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you require a quieter typing experience in a noise-sensitive environment while still maintaining a slightly heftier feel, the MX Silent Red switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a high-pitched sound and mild feel with the Blue Sky switch or a muted, thocky sound and textured feel with the MX Silent Red switch. As we have seen, both switches offer unique advantages depending on your personal preferences and typing environment. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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