Aflion Blue Sky vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is evident that they each offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Blue Sky switch stands out 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 Gold switch does not have a specific standout feature but falls under the clicky switch category. While the Blue Sky switch is categorized as 'High-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Gold switch does not have any specific characteristics listed. When considering which switch to choose, it ultimately depends on individual preferences and typing habits. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Blue Sky and the Outemu Gold both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for being relatively stiff, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. Despite these similarities, the differences in their bottom housing materials provide a distinct typing experience. The Blue Sky's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Gold's nylon bottom housing also offers a similar typing experience, with a rounder and duller sound due to its softer composition.
While both the Blue Sky and the Gold switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housings, the top housings of these switches offer a unique experience. The top housing material plays a significant role in the sound produced when pressing down and releasing a key. With the Blue Sky's polycarbonate top housing, typists can expect a sharper and crisper sound when releasing a key, while the Gold's polycarbonate top housing provides a similar sound profile. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings allows for a balanced typing experience, with each component contributing to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky and the Outemu Gold comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. Both switches offer a unique combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, resulting in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound from the Blue Sky or a deeper, fuller sound from the Gold, both switches provide a range of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a customizable typing experience with high-quality housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is 50 grams, slightly heavier than the Outemu Gold clicky switch's 45 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, making them equal in that aspect. The Blue Sky offers a balance between a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions and a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more solid typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold switch provides a lighter actuation force for easier typing but the same bottom out force as the Blue Sky. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is identical. In terms of travel distance, users can expect similar results when using either switch. Therefore, the travel distance of both switches is equal, making them equally suitable for users who prefer a 4 mm travel distance in their mechanical keyboard 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 Outemu Gold 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
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. This can be appealing for those who prefer a clearer and more distinct sound while typing. In contrast, the Outemu Gold clicky switch does not have a specific sound description provided, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in terms of sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the type of keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Sky switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristic indicates that the switch provides a gentle typing feel without overly pronounced features, making it comfortable for most users. The polished attribute suggests a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, there is no specific feel description provided for the Outemu Gold clicky switch, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches in terms of feel.
Overall, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch stands out for its crystal clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel. In contrast, the Outemu Gold clicky switch does not have specific descriptions for sound or feel, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, based on the available information, it can be inferred that the Blue Sky switch may offer a more refined and polished typing experience compared to the Gold switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a smooth and crystal-clear linear typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile, the Aflion Blue Sky switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a moderate actuation force and a neutral sound profile, then the Outemu Gold switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose will depend on your personal typing preferences and the sound profile you find most appealing. Consider factors such as feel and sound when making your decision to ensure that you have the best typing experience possible.
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