Aflion Blue Sky vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and SP-Star RedBlue are two options worth considering. The Blue Sky switch stands out for its long pole stem, offering a crystal clear linear typing experience. With a sparkling sound profile and exquisitely smooth push feel, this switch is sure to elevate your typing experience. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch is particularly suited for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience. Known for its higher-pitched sound profile, it provides a unique sensation with each keystroke. Both switches offer a neutral and mild feel, providing a comfortable 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Aflion Blue Sky and the SP-Star RedBlue both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This choice of material allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing on the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting effects into the switch. Therefore, both switches offer similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal when it comes to the top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Blue Sky differs from the RedBlue. The Blue Sky features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, typing on the Blue Sky switches will elicit a duller and rounder sound compared to the RedBlue switches. The bottom housing of the switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a unique typing experience.
In contrast, the RedBlue utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to the effects of polycarbonate in the top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a clear and resonant sound profile, providing a distinct typing experience when compared to the Blue Sky switches. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of the switch, particularly if RGB lighting is incorporated.
Overall, while both the Aflion Blue Sky and the SP-Star RedBlue share similar characteristics in terms of the polycarbonate top housing, their differences lie in the choice of material for the bottom housing. The Blue Sky's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. These variations result in unique typing experiences, with the bottom housing having a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The Blue Sky switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the actuation force of the RedBlue switch is unknown. Both switches have medium bottom out forces, with the Blue Sky requiring 60 grams and the RedBlue requiring 57 grams.
In terms of weight, the Blue Sky switch is lighter than the RedBlue switch. This lighter weight can be beneficial for those who prefer a keyboard with a more lightweight feel, allowing them to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. This makes the Blue Sky switch a great choice for individuals who use their keyboard extensively for work or for prolonged gaming sessions.
On the other hand, some users may prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals may opt for switches with heavier forces. Unfortunately, the actuation force of the RedBlue switch is not specified, making it difficult to determine its exact comparison to the Blue Sky switch in terms of push feel. However, the bottom out force of the RedBlue switch is slightly lighter than the Blue Sky switch, indicating that it may provide a slightly less forceful typing experience.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Blue Sky switch is known, the actuation force of the RedBlue switch remains unknown. Both switches have medium bottom out forces, with the Blue Sky being slightly heavier. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences, with the Blue Sky switch offering a lighter typing experience and the RedBlue switch potentially providing a slightly lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard. In the case of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, both switches have a 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. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results and offer a consistent 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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 best described as having a high-pitched sound profile. This means that when the switch is pressed, it produces a sharp and crisp sound that may appeal to those who prefer a brighter tone. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile. This results in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone when the switch is pressed and released. Both switches, however, share a neutral sound profile, which means they have a moderate sound that is suitable for various settings and preferences. It's worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen, so your overall sound experience may vary.
In terms of feel, both the Aflion Blue Sky and SP-Star RedBlue switches are considered mild switches. This means that they offer a gentle and approachable typing experience without any extreme characteristics. The switches' qualities fall within a safe middle-ground zone, making them suitable for most users. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating that they have a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Whether it is due to the materials used in the switch or factory lubrication, the polished finish adds to the overall feel of these switches.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch have some differences in terms of sound, with the Blue Sky having a high-pitched sound while the RedBlue has a low-pitched, more bass-heavy sound. However, they share similarities in feel, with both switches being mild and polished for a smooth typing experience. Overall, the Blue Sky offers a crystal clear linear typing experience, while the RedBlue is particularly suited for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences and requirements, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience that meets your needs.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider.
Firstly, if you prioritize a slightly lighter touch, the RedBlue switch may be the better option for you with its bottom out force of 57 grams, which is categorized as medium-light. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, the Blue Sky switch with its 60-gram bottom out force would be more suitable.
In terms of sound profile, the Blue Sky switch is known for its high-pitched characteristic, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This can be a great choice if you prefer a more vibrant and sparkling sound profile. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch has a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. If you prefer a deeper and richer sound, the RedBlue switch would be a better option.
When it comes to typing feel, both switches offer a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel for most users. Additionally, both switches are polished, meaning they offer a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky and SP-Star RedBlue linear switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a slightly lighter touch and a deeper, bass-heavy sound, the RedBlue switch may be more appealing to you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium touch and a sparkling, high-pitched sound, the Blue Sky switch would be a better fit. Consider your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to make the decision that best suits your needs.
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