Aflion Blue Sky vs. Outemu Black

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and the Outemu Black both fall under the linear switch category. The Blue Sky is recognized for its long pole stem, providing a crystal clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Black doesn't have any specific standout features but is a reliable linear switch. The Blue Sky is ideal for those who prefer a high-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished typing experience, while the Black is a more standard option. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

Outemu Black Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Outemu Black, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches have the same top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing material. The Blue Sky features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Black also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound profile to the Blue Sky.

Despite the similarities in top and bottom housing materials for the Blue Sky and the Black, it is important to consider the impact each material has on the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing, whether made of polycarbonate or nylon, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound produced by polycarbonate. On the other hand, the top housing material, also polycarbonate for both switches, influences the sound when a key is released, adding to the overall typing experience.

In conclusion, while both the Aflion Blue Sky and the Outemu Black share polycarbonate top housings that create a similar sound profile, their differing bottom housing materials provide unique qualities to the typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, but the impact of this material is felt more during key presses. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials in each switch results in a distinct sound profile that can be attributed to the specific characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon plastics.

Weight

The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. In comparison, the Outemu Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and an even heavier bottom out force of 82 grams. This means that the Outemu Black switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel compared to the Aflion Blue Sky switch. The lighter actuation force of the Blue Sky switch may be more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, while the heavier forces of the Black switch may appeal to those who prefer a more resistant and pronounced keystroke. Overall, the Aflion Blue Sky switch offers a lighter typing experience in comparison to the Outemu Black switch, making it a more suitable option for those who prefer a lighter touch.

Travel distance

The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When it comes to comparing and contrasting them, their travel distance is one aspect where they are identical. This means that when using either switch, you can expect a consistent feel in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. This similarity in travel distance between the Blue Sky and Black linear switches ensures that users will experience a similar level of actuation and keypress feel regardless of which switch they choose to use.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is known for its high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This can be appealing to those who prefer a brighter sound while typing. In contrast, the Outemu Black linear switch's sound profile is neutral, offering a more moderate and balanced sound suitable for various preferences. When it comes to feel, the Blue Sky switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Black switch is unknown. Overall, if you opt for the Blue Sky switch, you can expect a clear and linear typing experience with a sparkling sound and exquisitely smooth push feel, while the Outemu Black switch may offer a neutral sound profile and a feel yet to be specified. Both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Blue Sky likely offering a brighter sound and smoother feel compared to the Outemu Black.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, you should choose the Blue Sky if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a high-pitched sound profile with a smooth push feel, and a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Outemu Black if you prefer a heavier bottom out force, a neutral sound profile, and are looking for a switch that offers a straightforward linear typing experience without any additional unique characteristics. Consider these factors carefully to ensure you choose the switch that best suits your typing preferences and needs.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

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Outemu Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more