Aflion Blue Sky vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky and the Akko V3 Silver Pro mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note that both are linear switches, but they offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Blue Sky switch 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 V3 Silver Pro switch is designed for gamers, offering effortless keystrokes with a pleasing bassy sound, light actuation force, and shortened travel distance for quick responses in gaming scenarios. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on your specific needs and 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, it is evident that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for users who wish to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup, as it allows the light to shine through beautifully. The similarities in top housing materials between the two keyboards suggest that users can expect similar sound qualities when typing on both the Blue Sky and the V3 Silver Pro.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Blue Sky features a nylon material while the V3 Silver Pro also utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, polycarbonate provides a sharper sound profile due to its rigidity. This difference in bottom housing materials may result in a varying typing experience between the two keyboards. Users who prefer a deeper sound and softer feel may lean towards the Blue Sky, while those who enjoy a sharper and crisper typing experience might prefer the V3 Silver Pro.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a keyboard can significantly impact the typing experience for users. While both the Aflion Blue Sky and the Akko V3 Silver Pro share a polycarbonate top housing, the differing bottom housing materials - nylon for the Blue Sky and polycarbonate for the V3 Silver Pro - may lead to distinct sound profiles and typing feels. Ultimately, users should consider their preferences for sound and feel when choosing between these two keyboards, as the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, some key differences in weight can be noted. The Blue Sky has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium resistance level. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro offers a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it easier to press down. This means that the Blue Sky will offer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the V3 Silver Pro will provide a lighter touch, perfect for longer typing sessions or gaming. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a significant role in determining the typing experience and preference for users.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance on the V3 Silver Pro may provide a faster response time, making it appealing to gamers looking for quick actuation. On the other hand, the Blue Sky switch offers a slightly longer travel distance which can provide a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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, sharp, and crisp sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a clearer sound during typing. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch also falls under the high-pitched category, providing a similar sharp and crisp sound experience. Overall, both switches offer a pleasing auditory feedback that can enhance the typing experience, depending on personal preferences and setup.
In terms of feel, the Blue Sky switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, characterized by gentle key presses and smooth key travel. This creates a comfortable and approachable typing experience suitable for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch offers an easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky feel, focusing on light actuation force and smooth key travel. Both switches prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, but the Akko V3 Silver Pro emphasizes a lighter touch and enhanced smoothness compared to the Blue Sky.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. While the Blue Sky provides a high-pitched sound and a mild, polished feel, the Akko V3 Silver Pro prioritizes a light actuation force and a smooth, creamy typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a clearer sound profile or a lighter touch, you can achieve similar satisfactory results with either switch option to enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a high-pitched sound profile with a mild and polished typing experience, the Blue Sky switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light bottom out force, a high-pitched sound profile, and an easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, or silky typing experience tailored for gaming, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch would be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and intended use for the keyboard switch.
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