Aflion Blue Sky vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Phalaenopsis are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Blue Sky is a linear switch that features a long pole stem, providing users with a crystal clear typing experience. With its high-pitched sound profile and smoothly responsive push feel, the Blue Sky offers an exquisitely polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch that boasts beautiful translucent keys and a light actuation force of 37g. Typing on the Phalaenopsis switch requires minimal effort and reduces finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Its 50g tactile force ensures a satisfying and discernible tactile bump with every keystroke, resulting in a delightful typing experience. Each switch has its own unique qualities, attracting users who prioritize different aspects of typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Phalaenopsis both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing materials. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for switches. Additionally, due to its translucency, polycarbonate is particularly useful for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Thus, both the Blue Sky and the Phalaenopsis will provide similar sound characteristics and visual effects when it comes to their top housing materials.
However, the bottom housing materials of the two switches differ. The Blue Sky opts for nylon, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing. This choice creates a sharper and more resonant sound profile, thanks to polycarbonate's relatively stiffer nature. Therefore, when pressing down on these switches, one will experience distinct sound qualities based on the difference in bottom housing material.
Furthermore, the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the Blue Sky's nylon bottom housing will offer a different typing experience compared to the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing, reflecting the contrasting characteristics of the two materials. Despite the differences, both switches are designed to optimize the typing experience by leveraging the unique qualities of their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Blue Sky linear switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Phalaenopsis tactile switch requires a lighter force of 37 grams for actuation. Similarly, in terms of bottom out force, the Blue Sky requires 60 grams, whereas the Phalaenopsis only requires 50 grams. These variances make the Phalaenopsis switch lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Blue Sky.
Considerations of weight are important when choosing a keyboard switch. Some individuals prefer lighter switches like the Phalaenopsis, as it allows them to type for extended periods without fatigue. This feature makes it ideal for situations such as bringing a keyboard to work or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Blue Sky switch with its heavier forces. The actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 60 grams provide a stronger push feel, adding to the overall typing experience.
While the Blue Sky and Phalaenopsis switches differ in terms of actuation and bottom out force, individuals seeking similar results can opt for the lighter Phalaenopsis switch. In doing so, they will achieve a comparable typing experience to the Blue Sky but with lighter forces. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience one seeks to have.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and keypress experience for both switches. Neither switch has a shorter or longer travel distance compared to the other.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 is best known for its crystal clear linear typing experience, offering a sparkling sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel. These switches are described as having a high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This makes them suitable for those who prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile. In terms of feel, the Blue Sky switches offer a mild and polished experience, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is best known for its beautiful translucent design and light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue even during prolonged typing sessions. These switches have a bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses. They are also described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. The Phalaenopsis switches provide a tactile bump with a force of 50g, ensuring each keystroke is a delightful experience.
With the available information, it is clear that the Aflion Blue Sky and KTT Phalaenopsis switches have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Sky switches provide a high-pitched sound and a gentle typing experience with a polished finish. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switches offer a bassy sound and a more pronounced tactile bump with a stepped feel.
If a user is looking for a sharp and crisp sound with a smooth typing experience, the Blue Sky switches would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if a user prefers a deep and rich sound with a more pronounced tactile bump, the Phalaenopsis switches would be the better option.
It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Therefore, individual preferences and personal setup may also play a role in determining the final sound and feel experience. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that can cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Aflion Blue Sky switches are the way to go. These switches offer a sparkling sound profile and a smooth push feel due to their long pole stem design. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and a tactile typing experience, the KTT Phalaenopsis switches are the better choice. These switches feature a satisfying and discernible tactile bump with a light actuation force, making each keystroke a delightful and effortless experience. Additionally, if you prefer a higher-pitched and neutral sound profile, the Blue Sky switches are the ideal option. On the contrary, if you prefer a bassy and thocky sound profile, the Phalaenopsis switches will provide a deeper and richer sound during key presses. Finally, if you prefer a mild and polished typing feel, the Blue Sky switches offer a gentle and refined typing experience. However, if you prefer a stepped tactile feel with distinct pre-travel and/or post-travel, the Phalaenopsis switches are the way to go. Ultimately, your choice between the Aflion Blue Sky and KTT Phalaenopsis switches will depend on your desired bottom out force, typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feel preferences.
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