Aflion Blue Sky vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky and the Cherry MX Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both belonging to the linear switch category, distinct differences emerge. The Blue Sky switch offers a linear typing experience characterized by a long pole stem, resulting in a clear and smooth push feel with a sparkling sound profile. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver stands out with its emphasis on rapid response, featuring low spring resistance and linear action for instantaneous triggering, making it ideal for gamers seeking to gain an edge in speed and accuracy. While the Blue Sky switch is praised for its polished and mild feel, the MX Speed Silver is lauded for its textured and thocky sensation. 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
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
The housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Cherry MX Speed Silver both feature nylon for their bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. However, the Blue Sky's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound and produces a duller and rounder sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate in the Blue Sky also lends itself well to RGB lighting, making it a visually striking choice for those looking to customize their keyboard.
In terms of sound and feel, the differences between the Blue Sky and the MX Speed Silver can be attributed to their housing materials. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Blue Sky creates a more clear and resonant sound profile when pressing down on the keys, while the softer nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound for a deeper bottom-out sound and feel. In comparison, the MX Speed Silver's nylon top and bottom housing both contribute to a fuller sound profile with a rounder tone, adding a different tactile experience when typing on the keyboard.
While the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Cherry MX Speed Silver offer distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback, their bottom housings share the same nylon material, resulting in a similar deep and full sound experience during typing. However, the contrasting top housings of polycarbonate for the Blue Sky and nylon for the MX Speed Silver create differences in the sharpness and pitch of the sound, as well as the impact felt when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, both keyboards provide unique sensory experiences for users based on the combination of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that the MX Speed Silver is the lighter option with an actuation force of 30 grams, while the Blue Sky is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams. The bottom out force for the Blue Sky is 60 grams, but the bottom out force for the MX Speed Silver is unknown. The actuation force of a switch is crucial as it determines the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure required to press the key all the way down. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the MX Speed Silver for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the slightly heavier actuation force of the Blue Sky for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Sky has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the MX Speed Silver's 3.4 mm. The Blue Sky's 4.0mm travel distance provides a more traditional typing experience with a deeper keystroke, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver's shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm makes it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster response times due to its shallower keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Blue Sky offering a longer travel distance for those seeking a more substantial keystroke, while the MX Speed Silver provides a shorter distance for users prioritizing quick and efficient typing or gaming performance.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a high-pitched profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch provides a thocky, deep and rich sound that is satisfying to the ear. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Sky switch is characterized by a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. It is also described as polished, providing a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is noted for its textured feel, with noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer the subtle texture while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience.
Taking into consideration the information provided, it is clear that the Aflion Blue Sky and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities. The Blue Sky switch provides a high-pitched sound and a polished, mild feel, while the MX Speed Silver switch offers a thocky sound and a textured feel. Depending on individual preferences, both switches can cater to different needs and preferences, providing users with a choice based on their specific requirements. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, delivering satisfactory results to users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a sparkling sound profile and exquisitely smooth push feel, along with a medium bottom out force, opt for the Aflion Blue Sky switch. It is a great choice for those who enjoy a crystal clear linear typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for maximum speed and rapid response, especially for gaming purposes where split-second reactions matter, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch with its instant triggering and low spring resistance is the way to go. Additionally, if you prefer a mild and polished typing experience, the Blue Sky switch might be more suitable for you, whereas the MX Speed Silver switch offers a textured feel for those who prefer some friction when typing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences in terms of sound, feel, and usage scenarios to ensure the best fit for your keyboard.
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