Aflion Blue Sky vs. Everglide Oreo
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Everglide Oreo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are various options available, each offering a unique typing experience. Two switches worth comparing and contrasting are the Aflion Blue Sky, a linear switch, and the Everglide Oreo, a tactile switch. The Blue Sky switches are best known for their long pole stem, providing users with a crystal clear linear typing experience. This switch selection offers a sparkling sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switches indulge users in a delectable treat for their fingertips. With a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a delightfully cushioned sensation when bottoming out, these switches strike the perfect balance between a satisfying keystroke and a comfortable typing experience. The Oreo switches possess a palatable medium light tactility and emit a subtle, mellow sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Everglide Oreo have some similarities and differences. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Similarly, the polycarbonate top housing of the Oreo provides similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits.
However, the bottom housings of these switches differ. The Blue Sky utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Oreo features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which emphasizes the sharper and more resonant sound characteristics associated with this material. The impact and bottom-out sound and feel of the switch are largely influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing.
Overall, while both switches have polycarbonate top housings, the differences in their bottom housings result in variations in sound profiles. The Blue Sky with its nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Oreo with its polycarbonate bottom housing provides a sharper and clearer sound. In terms of aesthetics and the impact on key release sound, both switches share similar characteristics due to their polycarbonate top housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Blue Sky is slightly heavier, requiring 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Oreo has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Blue Sky is also heavier, with 60 grams needed to fully depress the switch, compared to the Oreo's lighter bottom out force of 55 grams.
These variances in force can impact the overall typing experience for users. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Oreo switch more suitable, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces provide a smoother and easier keystroke. This can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or intense gaming sessions, as it reduces fatigue and allows for longer periods of comfortable use.
On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Blue Sky switch. With its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces, users will experience a more pronounced tactile feedback and a stronger push feel. This can be desirable for those who appreciate a tactile response and desire a sense of assurance when typing.
Despite these differences, it is important to note that both switches fall within the medium to medium-light force range. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, with the Oreo switch providing a slightly lighter experience overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience - whether one prefers a lighter touch for extended use or a stronger, more tactile feel for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches offer a consistent tactile feel and response when pressed down on a key. Whether you choose the Blue Sky or the Oreo switch, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, there is no significant difference between the two switches.
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 Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 sound profile. Pressing these switches produces a sharp and crisp sound, which is preferred by those who do not enjoy the deeper and bassier sound profiles of other switches. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch has a unique chirpy sound. These switches have a slight squeak to them, giving them an acoustic signature that sets them apart. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. Being a mild switch, it offers a more gentle typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes it approachable for most users, as its qualities fall within a safe and middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Blue Sky switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is described as accented and stepped. It offers a medium tactile feel that provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. The stepped feel of these switches means that you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, adding to the typing experience.
Overall, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Blue Sky is best known for its linear typing experience, providing a crystal clear feel and a high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Oreo offers a delectable treat for the fingertips, with a responsive tactile bump and a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. While they differ in sound and feel, both switches excel in their respective qualities. Depending on your preference for linear or tactile switches, you can expect similar results in terms of typing satisfaction and comfort.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a crystal-clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and exquisitely smooth push feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a balanced typing experience that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users. The Blue Sky switch also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a delectably tactile experience with a crisp and responsive bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch would be the ideal option for you. With a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, it strikes a perfect balance between satisfying keystrokes and comfortable typing. The Oreo switch also has a subtle, mellow sound profile, ensuring a pleasant auditory experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches depends on whether you prioritize a linear or tactile typing experience, as well as your preference for sound and feel.
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