Aflion Blue Sky vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Blue Sky and KTT Orange offer unique features for an enhanced typing experience. The Blue Sky switch stands out with its long pole stem, providing a crystal clear linear typing experience. With a sparkling sound profile and exquisitely smooth push feel, this switch offers a polished and neutral typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch boasts a bouncy type feel, thanks to its 22mm long spring. Its polycarbonate milky top housing, long pole POM stem, and vivid orange nylon bottom housing contribute to a slick and frictionless typing experience. With a low-pitched sound profile and factory-lubed for maximum smoothness, the Orange switch ensures refined and fluid key travel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Orange both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, making it a visually pleasing option. The polycarbonate also contributes to a clear and resonant sound that enhances the overall typing experience. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetic appeal when comparing the top housing of these switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Blue Sky employs nylon while the Orange retains polycarbonate. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its relatively softer composition that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a somewhat duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Orange contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This difference in materials influences the overall sound and feel experienced when bottoming out the keys on these switches.
When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing material become more apparent. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a tactile response that users can appreciate. Conversely, the top housing material has more influence on the sound produced when releasing a key, contributing to the overall auditory experience. Therefore, while the top and bottom housing materials may differ in the Blue Sky and the Orange, users can still expect a balanced and enjoyable typing experience from both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, there are notable similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, the Blue Sky requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Orange demands a slightly lighter 46 grams. Although both fall within the medium category, the Orange provides a somewhat lighter touch. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Blue Sky requires 60 grams to fully press down, whereas the Orange measures at 53 grams. This indicates that the Blue Sky has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Orange.
Considering weight, the Blue Sky is heavier in terms of both the actuation and bottom out forces when compared to the Orange. However, it is worth noting that both switches fall within the medium range, providing a balanced typing experience. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Orange, as it allows for typing over longer periods without fatigue, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Blue Sky, as its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces may provide a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is 4.0 mm, while the KTT Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Blue Sky switch is longer than the Orange switch. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Blue Sky switch falls within the traditional range, providing a familiar and comfortable experience. On the other hand, the Orange switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a more shallow option. Gamers who prioritize fast response times often prefer shorter travel distances, as it allows for quicker key presses. In contrast, some individuals may find shorter travel distances too abrupt and prefer the greater depth provided by a longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - if you value responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Orange switch may be the better option, while those seeking a deeper key press experience may opt for the longer travel distance of the Blue Sky switch.
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 KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange 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 it comes to sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is known for its high-pitched profile. Pressing these switches will produce a sharp and crisp sound, making them a great choice for those who prefer a more rich and bassy sound. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile. These switches have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, providing a different auditory experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, if you're looking for a switch with a similar overall sound profile, both options can deliver satisfying results.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. With a switch that is described as mild, you can expect a more gentle typing sensation that appeals to a wide range of users. The sound and feel of these switches are approachable and fall within a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Blue Sky switch has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience. The use of high-quality materials and factory lubing contribute to reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch provides a bouncy and frictionless feel. These switches offer a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. The Orange switch also ensures an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences, so choosing between them will depend on personal preference.
Taking into account the available information, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch stands out for its crystal clear linear typing experience, high-pitched sound profile, mild feel, and polished finish. With these switches, you can expect a smooth and refined typing experience without compromising on sound quality. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch offers a bouncy type feel, low-pitched sound profile, and a frictionless typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Blue Sky or the Orange switch, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with the added benefit of smoothness and precision due to their design and construction.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Aflion Blue Sky switch is a great option. It offers a crystal clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and exquisitely smooth push feel. The Blue Sky switch has a high-pitched sound profile and a mild and polished feel, making it suitable for most intents and purposes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the KTT Orange switch is worth considering. It provides a slick, frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. The Orange switch has a bouncy feel, giving you a spring-like feedback sensation, and offers a fluid travel due to its excellent factory-lubing.
Ultimately, your choice between the Aflion Blue Sky and KTT Orange switches will depend on your personal preferences. If you prefer a higher-pitched sound and a mild, polished feel, go for the Blue Sky switch. However, if you prefer a low-pitched sound and a bouncy, frictionless feel, the Orange switch may be more suitable for you. Consider your typing preferences and desired experience to make an informed decision.
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