Aflion Blue Sky vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Blue Sky and the Outemu Phoenix. The Blue Sky is a linear switch known for its long pole stem, offering a crystal clear typing experience. With a sparkling sound profile and exquisitely smooth push feel, this switch is perfect for those seeking a high-pitched, neutral, and mild typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, making it one of the most unique clicky switches available today. This switch offers a crystalline and sparkling type feel and sound profile, giving it a crunchy and polished sensation. Each switch has its own unique qualities, catering to different preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Outemu Phoenix share several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing an aesthetically pleasing experience. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and visual effects from the top housing of both switches.
However, the differences in their bottom housing materials bring notable distinctions. The Blue Sky employs nylon for its bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Phoenix utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well. This choice contributes to the switch's overall sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While both bottom housings provide unique sound characteristics, the nylon bottom housing of the Blue Sky emphasizes depth and fullness, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phoenix enhances clarity and resonance.
When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing material become apparent. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, so users can expect differences in how the switches sound and feel when fully pressed down. However, when releasing a key, the top housing material influences the sound produced. The top housing contributes to the sound profile while the key is being released, creating a distinctive auditory experience. Hence, users will notice variations in the sound when lifting their fingers off the keys between the Blue Sky and the Phoenix, depending on the housing material used in the top portion of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, both switches have a medium range force. The Blue Sky has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Phoenix's actuation force is unavailable. However, their bottom out forces are quite similar, with the Blue Sky requiring 60 grams and the Phoenix requiring 62 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Blue Sky may be more suitable, as its actuation force is slightly lower than the Phoenix. This lighter actuation force allows for longer typing sessions without straining the fingers. On the other hand, for those seeking a more substantial and strong push feel, the Phoenix with its slightly heavier bottom out force may provide a better typing experience.
Although the exact actuation force for the Phoenix is not known, it is mentioned that both switches fall within the medium force range. Therefore, it can be expected that the results obtained from both switches would be quite similar, providing a balanced and comfortable typing experience for users.
Considering weight as a factor, the preference for lighter or heavier forces will depend on the individual's typing style and personal preference. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch will come down to whether the user values a slightly lighter or heavier force for their typing needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard, as it determines the distance the switch travels when pressed down. In the case of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch, it has a travel distance of 4.0mm, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3mm. The Blue Sky's 4.0mm travel distance is more in line with the traditional distance, while the Phoenix's 3.3mm is on the shallower side. However, with the growing popularity of shorter travel distances, gamers in particular prefer switches with faster response times, making the Phoenix a more suitable choice for them. On the other hand, some individuals may find short travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a more substantial key press, making the Blue Sky with its longer travel distance a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness and depth.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 is known for its crystal clear linear typing experience, offering a high-pitched sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch stands out with its unique under-skirt click mechanism, providing a crunchy sound akin to stepping on piles of autumn leaves, as well as a polished feel resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
When it comes to sound, the Blue Sky switch has a high-pitched and crisp sound when pressed, making it suitable for those who prefer a sharper sound profile. It also has a neutral option available, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, catering to a wide range of users and environments. The Phoenix switch, on the other hand, offers a distinctive crunchy sound commonly associated with clicky switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Blue Sky and Phoenix switches offer a polished experience. This means they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The polished feel is achieved through the materials used or factory lubing, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Blue Sky switch is described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Its qualities fall within a safe middle-ground zone, ensuring a comfortable typing experience. Similarly, the Phoenix switch also shares the polished feel, indicating a smooth and refined finish synonymous with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering the available information, the Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer contrasting qualities. The Blue Sky switch emphasizes a crystal clear linear typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile and a mild, polished feel. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch stands out with its unique under-skirt click mechanism, providing a crunchy sound and a polished feel. If you prefer a high-pitched sound and mild, polished feel, the Blue Sky switch would be an excellent choice. However, if you prefer the distinctive crunch and polished feel, the Phoenix switch would be more suitable. It's important to note that individual preferences may vary, and choosing the appropriate switch also depends on personal typing style and overall keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a linear switch with a crystal clear typing experience and a sparkling sound profile, the Aflion Blue Sky would be the ideal choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a balanced feel that is approachable to most users. Additionally, if you prefer a higher-pitched sound and a mild typing experience, the Blue Sky is a great option. On the other hand, if you appreciate a unique clicky switch with an under-skirt click mechanism, the Outemu Phoenix is the way to go. Its medium bottom out force of 62 grams provides a similar feel to the Blue Sky. Moreover, if you enjoy a crunchy sound and a polished typing experience, the Phoenix is a fantastic choice. Ultimately, whether you prioritize a linear or clicky switch, the Blue Sky and Phoenix both offer distinct qualities that are sure to enhance your mechanical keyboard typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
