Aflion Blue Sky vs. Outemu Milk Blue

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and Outemu Milk Blue present two distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences and styles. The Aflion Blue Sky is a linear switch celebrated for its smooth push feel and high-pitched sound profile, providing a clean and fluid typing experience that is ideal for those who value quiet precision and enjoy a sparkling auditory feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue switch is a clicky switch that is designed for users who appreciate tactile feedback and the unmistakable sound of each keystroke, making it a great choice for typists who thrive on the satisfying click that reinforces their input. While the Blue Sky emphasizes a linear responsiveness with its long pole stem, the Milk Blue offers a more pronounced auditory and tactile sensation that can heighten the typing experience. 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 Milk Blue Clicky

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Blue Sky and the Outemu Milk Blue switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which offers a range of sound quality benefits. The polycarbonate's stiffer nature contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for users looking for excellent auditory feedback when typing. Moreover, both switches feature clear housings, enhancing their aesthetic appeal, particularly in setups with RGB lighting. This translucency not only elevates their visual aspects but also ensures that the lighting effects can shine through beautifully, allowing for a customizable and interactive user experience.

While the top housings of both switches are the same, their bottom housings differ significantly. The Aflion Blue Sky’s bottom housing is made of nylon, a material known for its softer composition which absorbs sound more effectively. This results in a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing, adding a richer texture to the overall sound profile. Conversely, since the Milk Blue also employs a nylon bottom housing, this component similarly elicits a rounder sound. The inherent qualities of nylon help to mitigate the harsher tones that might arise from harder plastics, making both the Blue Sky and Milk Blue able to satisfy users who appreciate a more subdued sound when bottoming out their keys.

Ultimately, the duality of materials used in each switch means that even while they share similarities in the top housing, the combination of polycarbonate on top and nylon on the bottom leads to unique sound characteristics in each keyboard. Users can expect a crisp sound on key release due to the polycarbonate, while the nylon housing ensures a softer, more rounded key press sound. Though both switches provide excellent auditory results, the personalized typing experience will more significantly depend on the feel and acoustics provided by the softer nylon bottom. Thus, users looking for a customizable typing experience may find satisfaction in the shared features of the Aflion Blue Sky and Outemu Milk Blue switches, while still enjoying the distinct tonal differences brought about by their combined housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams but an unknown bottom out force, we find that both switches require the same actuation force. This suggests that users can expect a similar experience when initially pressing down on either switch, making both suitable for prolonged typing sessions where lightness is appreciated. However, the key difference lies in the bottom out force; while the Blue Sky is rated at 60 grams, providing a slightly heavier feel when fully depressed, the Milk Blue lacks this information. Therefore, we can't conclusively categorize it but can infer that it might have varying feedback. In terms of typing experience, the Aflion Blue Sky offers a heavier bottom out feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial tactile sensation, whereas the lighter actuation force across both switches could make them feel similar at the point of actuation.

Travel distance

The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. As a result, users can expect a similar experience regarding the distance the switches travel when pressed, regardless of the differing switch types—linear versus clicky. This similarity in travel distance ensures that both switches provide a comparable feel under the fingers, making either choice suitable for those who appreciate a standard depth in their keypresses.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is noted for its high-pitched tone that offers a sharp and crisp auditory experience during use, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a clearer and more vibrant sound over richer, bassy profiles. Additionally, it has a neutral sound quality, making it versatile enough for different environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. In contrast, there is no specific sound description available for the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, leaving its acoustic characteristics unknown. However, keep in mind that the sound a switch produces can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard case and keycap choice.

In terms of feel, the Blue Sky switches provide a mild yet polished typing sensation. This means that users can expect a gentle and approachable experience, as the switch's characteristics rest comfortably in a balanced zone. The polished nature of the switch suggests a smooth and refined feedback, likely due to the materials employed and potential factory lubing, leading to reduced friction and a seamless key travel experience. On the other hand, there is no information available regarding the feel of the Milk Blue clicky switch, so we cannot compare it directly on this front.

In summary, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch stands out with its bright sound profile and smooth tactile feedback, making it a favorable choice for those who value clarity in both auditory and physical experience. The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, lacking specific information, presents an unknown quality in both sound and feel aspects. If you're seeking a linear option that promises a refined typing experience, the Blue Sky switch might be your best bet, whereas the Milki Blue's characteristics remain ambiguous, posing a risk for those wanting a predictable performance.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and how you intend to use your keyboard. If you seek a smooth and polished typing experience, the Aflion Blue Sky is an excellent choice. Its medium actuation force of 60 grams, combined with a high-pitched and crystal clear sound profile, makes it ideal for tasks that require focus and precision, such as writing or coding. The mild and polished feel further enhances the typing experience, allowing for extended use without fatigue. On the other hand, if you're drawn to tactile feedback and want your typing to have more character, the clicky nature of the Outemu Milk Blue would be preferable. While the sound profile and feel for the Milk Blue are not explicitly defined, typical clicky switches tend to offer a more pronounced tactile response, which can be satisfying for typists who appreciate auditory cues. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style, whether you prefer a subtle and smooth experience or a more engaging clicky feel.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Milk Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more