Aflion Blue Sky vs. TTC Silent Brown

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Aflion Blue Sky, a linear switch, and the TTC Silent Brown, a tactile switch. Each of these switches offers unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Blue Sky, renowned for its long pole stem, delivers a linear typing experience that is crystal clear and smooth to the touch. With its high-pitched sound profile and neutral feel, this switch is perfect for those seeking a polished and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches provide a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. What sets them apart is their muted sound profile, making them an ideal choice for those who prefer a quieter environment while typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper and explore the specific characteristics of each switch so you can make an informed decision on the best one for your needs.

By the numbers

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

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Housing materials

The Aflion Blue Sky and TTC Silent Brown both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice results in a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp tones. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect comparable sound and lighting experiences from both the Blue Sky and Silent Brown.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Blue Sky features nylon while the Silent Brown also utilizes nylon as its bottom housing material. Despite being the same material, the impact on sound is different due to the way nylon absorbs sound. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing produces a deep and full sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that users can experience a similar depth and fullness of sound when typing on both the Blue Sky and Silent Brown switches.

When it comes to the overall performance, the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials will contribute differently to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing material has a more substantial impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Blue Sky and Silent Brown may have differences in their top and bottom housing materials, users can still expect similar results in terms of the typing experience and sound quality of the switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. The Blue Sky has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Silent Brown's 45 grams, making it marginally heavier to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches fall within the medium force range, providing a responsive typing experience without being too light or heavy. In terms of bottom out force, the Blue Sky requires 60 grams of force, while the Silent Brown requires 63.5 grams. This makes the Silent Brown slightly heavier when fully pressed down.

Considering the weight factor, those who prefer lighter switches would lean towards the Silent Brown with its lower actuation force, allowing for prolonged typing sessions and long gaming sessions without excessive fatigue. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Blue Sky with its slightly higher actuation force, providing a stronger push feel. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium to medium-heavy force, ensuring a satisfactory typing experience for different user preferences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, the Blue Sky has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Silent Brown has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Blue Sky offers a bit more depth when pressing down on a key compared to the Silent Brown. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Blue Sky being on the slightly longer side. For those who prioritize faster response times, the shorter 3.8 mm travel distance of the Silent Brown may be preferred. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial feeling when typing or gaming might find the 4 mm travel distance of the Blue Sky more satisfying. Overall, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a high-pitched sound profile. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which can be preferred by those who do not like the richer and bassier sound profiles of certain keyboard switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch provides a muted sound profile. These switches are designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, resulting in a softer and quieter typing experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. Overall, if you are looking for a high-pitched sound, the Blue Sky switch would be a suitable choice, while the Silent Brown switch is ideal if you prefer a more muted sound profile.

In terms of feel, both the Blue Sky and Silent Brown switches offer a mild typing experience. A mild mechanical keyboard switch provides a gentle typing sensation compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes them approachable to most users, as the qualities of these switches fall within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, which means they have a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The TTC Silent Brown switch is further described as buttery, indicating that it offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Therefore, in terms of feel, both switches provide a comfortable and polished typing experience with a mild sensation. You can expect a seamless and effortless typing experience with either switch.

In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Sky switch provides a high-pitched sound profile with a crystal clear linear typing experience. It offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch offers a muted sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience. It also offers a mild typing experience, while being described as buttery and polished for a smooth and refined keystroke sensation. Both switches provide an excellent typing experience depending on your sound and feel preferences. If you are looking for similar qualities, such as a gentle and polished typing experience, you can expect to achieve similar results with either switch.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you value a crystal clear linear typing experience with a medium bottom out force, then the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is the ideal choice for you. These switches offer an exquisitely smooth push feel and a sparkling sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch would be the better option. These switches have a muted sound profile that minimizes noise, making them perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your preference for sound and feel. Whether you lean towards the high-pitched and neutral sound of the Blue Sky or the muted sound of the Silent Brown, rest assured that both switches offer a mild and polished typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

Learn more