Aflion Blue Sky vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and Outemu Dustproof Black both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Blue Sky, a linear switch, is renowned for its long pole stem that provides a crystal-clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel. Categorized as high-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished, this switch is ideal for those who prefer a refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black, also a linear switch, lacks standout features but is known for its reliability and durability. While it is not categorized under specific attributes, this switch may appeal to users looking for a straightforward and dependable option. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Blue Sky and Outemu Dustproof Black utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting. While both switches share this feature, the difference lies in their bottom housings. The Blue Sky's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, absorbing more sound to create a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Dustproof Black's nylon bottom housing offers the same qualities, emphasizing the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Despite their similarities in top housing material, the Aflion Blue Sky and Outemu Dustproof Black showcase how different bottom housing materials can affect the overall sound profile of a switch. While both switches excel in providing a sharp and clear sound due to their polycarbonate top housings, it is the nylon bottom housings that distinguish their sound profiles. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that contrasts with the sharper sound of the polycarbonate top housing. This split in housing materials highlights how each component plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience of the switches.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky and Outemu Dustproof Black offer a unique combination of housing materials that complement each other to deliver a dynamic sound profile. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, the nylon bottom housings provide a distinct difference in sound quality. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile that contrasts with the sharp and clear sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Overall, these housing materials work together to enhance the typing experience and showcase the importance of material selection in switch design.
Weight
Comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Sky is lighter in terms of actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Dustproof Black's 60 grams. This means that the Blue Sky will require less force to register a keystroke, making it ideal for those looking for a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Dustproof Black has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams compared to the Blue Sky's 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with varying preferences. Ultimately, those seeking a lighter typing experience may prefer the Aflion Blue Sky, while those in search of a heavier feel may opt for the Outemu Dustproof Black.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, the travel distance of both switches is equal, providing a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch you choose.
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 Outemu Dustproof Black comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 is best suited for those who prefer a high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch's sound profile is unknown, making it difficult to compare in terms of sound quality. It is important to note that sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as keyboard type and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and refined feel that is approachable to most users. This smooth key travel is enhanced by the polished finish of the switch, ensuring reduced friction and a sleek typing experience. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch is unknown, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience.
Overall, while the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch presents a high-pitched sound profile and a mild, polished feel, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch remain undetermined. It is important to consider personal preferences and typing habits when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, as individual preferences may vary based on sound, feel, and other factors. If the Dustproof Black switch is similar to the Blue Sky, users can expect a comparable experience in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a high-pitched sound profile with a crystal clear linear typing experience, then the Blue Sky switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams and prefer a switch with no specific sound description, then the Dustproof Black switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing experience.
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