Aflion Blue Sky vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences. The Blue Sky stands out with its long pole stem, providing a crystal clear linear typing experience accompanied by a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown switch doesn't have any specific standout features but offers a tactile typing experience. While the Blue Sky switch is categorized as 'High-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Dustproof Brown switch doesn't have any specific categorization. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
65g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The primary difference between the Aflion Blue Sky and the Outemu Dustproof Brown lies in their housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. The use of polycarbonate is also ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the Blue Sky and Dustproof Brown differ in their bottom housing material. The Blue Sky utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is duller and rounder compared to the Dustproof Brown's nylon bottom housing.
While the Blue Sky and Dustproof Brown share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, the differences in their nylon bottom housing contribute to distinct sound profiles. The Blue Sky's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a deeper sound that is duller and rounder. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown's nylon bottom housing creates a different typing experience with a sound profile that is likely crisper and sharper compared to the Blue Sky. These contrasting qualities showcase how different housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
When considering the impact of housing materials on a switch, it is essential to acknowledge how the top and bottom housings work together to create a unique typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing material will affect the sound when a key is released. By understanding the distinct properties of polycarbonate and nylon, users can choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound profile, key feel, and overall typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is 50 grams, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Dustproof Brown the lighter option. The bottom out force of the Blue Sky is 60 grams, while the Dustproof Brown requires 65 grams to bottom out, making the Dustproof Brown the heavier option between the two. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of actuation and bottom-out force. Users who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer durations may opt for the Dustproof Brown, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Blue Sky. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom-out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, it is evident that both switches offer the same amount of key travel, providing a consistent typing experience for users. This means that whether you choose the Blue Sky or the Dustproof Brown, you can expect similar results in terms of key travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a standard key travel distance, which can cater to the preferences of individuals who value consistency in their typing experience.
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 Brown 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is known for its high-pitched and crisp sound profile, providing a sharp and clear typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch does not have a specific sound description available. While both switches may produce different sound profiles when used on various keyboards and with different keycaps, the Blue Sky switch is more likely to offer a brighter and more distinct sound compared to the Dustproof Brown switch.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel. The refined finish of the Blue Sky switch contributes to a sleek and comfortable typing feel, making it approachable to a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch does not have a specific feel description available. If we were to compare the known qualities of the Blue Sky to the unknown qualities of the Dustproof Brown, it is likely that the Blue Sky switch would provide a smoother and more polished typing feel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch stands out for its high-pitched sound profile and polished feel, offering a crisp and smooth typing experience. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch are unknown, based on the information available, users can expect a potentially different sound and feel compared to the Blue Sky switch. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly lighter typing experience with a bottom out force of 60 grams, the Blue Sky linear switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force at 65 grams, the Dustproof Brown tactile switch may be more suitable. Additionally, if you value a high-pitched sound profile and a mild typing experience, the Blue Sky switch would be a great option. However, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile and a polished typing feel, the Dustproof Brown switch may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing force, sound, and feel.
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