Aflion Blue Sky vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Aflion Blue Sky and the Outemu Red Panda. Each switch offers a unique typing experience, allowing users to tailor their keyboard to their preferences. The Blue Sky is a linear switch, known for its long pole stem and crystal clear typing experience. With a sparkling sound profile and exquisitely smooth push feel, it is categorized as high-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished. On the other hand, the Red Panda is a tactile switch that provides a light-medium amount of tactility. Typing on these switches produces a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. Categorized as thocky and mild, the Red Panda offers a different tactile experience compared to the linear Blue Sky. 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
50g
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
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Outemu Red Panda, one similarity is that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, producing a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, providing an aesthetically pleasing visual effect.
However, their differences arise when examining the bottom housing material. The Blue Sky utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Red Panda also incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches that use nylon results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a relatively softer plastic, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. As a result, the Red Panda may produce a duller and rounder sound compared to the Blue Sky due to the properties of its nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that the variation in housing materials affects different aspects of the switches' performance. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, impacting the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Blue Sky and Red Panda may have similar sound profiles due to their polycarbonate top housing, their respective nylon bottom housings impart distinct characteristics to each switch's sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke and the feeling of pressing all the way down on the keys.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, both the Blue Sky and Red Panda switches provide a medium level of weight, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing. This lighter weight is beneficial for individuals who use their keyboards for work or engage in long gaming sessions.
On the other hand, some users may prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. In these cases, both switches still provide a medium level of weight, although they might not meet the preferences of those seeking a heavier actuation or bottom out force. It is worth noting that the exact differences in the typing experience between the two switches may be subtle, given that they have the same actuation and bottom out force.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch will depend on an individual's personal preference for typing experience. It is recommended to try out both switches or seek opinions from others who have used them to determine which one aligns better with the desired level of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch for your keyboard. The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is a more traditional option. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This shorter travel distance is favored by gamers who prioritize faster response times. Opting for the Red Panda switch would provide a more responsive typing experience. However, some may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a deeper and more satisfying key press, the Aflion Blue Sky switch with its longer travel distance would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 offers a high-pitched and sparkling sound profile. This means that when you press the keys, you will hear a sharp and crisp sound that is not overly rich or bassy. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch provides a thocky sound experience. This means that when you press and release the keys, you can expect a deep, rich, and satisfying sound similar to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock". It is important to note that the actual sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the type of keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a sharp and crisp sound, the Blue Sky is a good choice. If you prefer a deeper and more satisfying sound, the Red Panda is the way to go.
In terms of feel, both the Blue Sky and Red Panda switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that the key presses will be gentle and approachable for most users, without any overly pronounced characteristics. Additionally, the Blue Sky switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, possibly due to factory lubing or high-quality materials. Unfortunately, specific information about the feel of the Red Panda switch is not provided. However, since both switches are described as offering a mild typing experience, it can be assumed that they will provide a similar level of comfort to users.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound. The Blue Sky provides a high-pitched and sparkling sound, while the Red Panda offers a thocky and satisfying sound. When it comes to feel, both switches provide a mild typing experience, with the Blue Sky being described as polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. It is important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these switches, as the sound and feel can greatly impact the overall typing experience. Additionally, it should be noted that the sound and feel of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch, you can expect a crystal clear linear typing experience. These switches offer a sparkling sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel. The Blue Sky switch has a high-pitched sound, which produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Additionally, the Blue Sky switch has a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is best known for its light-medium amount of tactility. When typing on these switches, you will experience a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. The Red Panda switch offers a thocky sound, which produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. In terms of feel, the Red Panda switch also offers a mild typing experience, similar to the Blue Sky switch.
Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch depends on your personal preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a sharp and crisp high-pitched sound with a polished and smooth typing experience, the Blue Sky switch may be your best choice. However, if you enjoy a bassier and more satisfying thocky sound, alongside a gentle typing experience, the Red Panda switch would be more suitable for you. Consider these factors and choose the switch that aligns with your preferences and typing style.
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