Aflion Blue Sky vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features and benefits. The Blue Sky 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 Purple Star offers an all-POM construction that delivers a buttery smooth typing experience with a very light 45g bottom-out, making it ideal for light typists seeking ease and comfort. While the Blue Sky is categorized as high-pitched, neutral, and mild, the Purple Star falls into the mild, low-pitched, and easy-to-press categories. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Blue Sky and KTT Purple Star both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Blue Sky's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, high-pitched sound with a clear and resonant profile, perfect for RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Purple Star's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a unique auditory experience. However, both switches aim to deliver a pleasing sound quality, albeit with different characteristics.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Blue Sky uses nylon which creates a deep and full sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Similarly, the Purple Star's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound experience. While the top and bottom housings of each switch differ in material, they both work to enhance the overall sound profile of the switch, albeit in different ways.
Overall, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky and KTT Purple Star housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether you prefer a sharper, more resonant sound with polycarbonate or a deeper, more muted sound with POM, both switches offer unique auditory experiences. While the top housing impacts the sound when pressing or releasing a key, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, both switches strive to deliver a high-quality typing experience, each bringing its own distinct sound characteristics to the table.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Sky requires a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Purple Star's 43 grams, making the Blue Sky the heavier option. In terms of bottom out force, the Blue Sky also surpasses the Purple Star with 60 grams compared to 50 grams, indicating that the Blue Sky is heavier in both aspects. This means that typing on the Blue Sky switch will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel compared to the lighter and softer feel of the Purple Star. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the weight of force required, catering to individuals who prefer either a lighter or heavier keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Blue Sky has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Purple Star. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more tactile feel. Both switches offer a different experience in terms of key travel, with the Blue Sky being the longer option and the Purple Star being slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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 profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a low-pitched sound, which tends to be more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. Depending on personal preference, the Blue Sky may be preferred by those who enjoy a more distinct and pronounced sound, while the Purple Star may appeal to individuals seeking a softer and more soothing typing experience.
In terms of feel, both the Blue Sky and Purple Star switches are described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Blue Sky switch is further characterized as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing feel due to the materials used or factory lubrication. On the other hand, the Purple Star switch is highlighted for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force for activation and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Those who prioritize a super smooth typing experience may lean towards the Blue Sky, while individuals looking for effortless key presses may favor the Purple Star.
Overall, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Sky boasts a high-pitched sound profile and a polished typing experience, the Purple Star provides a low-pitched sound and easy-to-press key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing comfort. It's important to consider factors such as personal typing style, preferred actuation force, and desired sound profile when selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for your setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a high-pitched sound profile with a polished typing feel, the Blue Sky switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a low-pitched sound profile with an easy-to-press typing feel, the Purple Star switch could be more suitable for your needs. Consider these factors carefully before making your decision to ensure you select the switch that best fits your typing preferences and comfort level. Ultimately, the right switch for you will enhance your typing experience and make your time at the keyboard more enjoyable.
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