Aflion Blue Sky vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky and the Dareu Sky POM mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note that both switches are linear in design, offering a smooth typing experience without tactile feedback. The Blue Sky stands out for its long pole stem, providing a crystal clear linear typing experience and a sparkling sound profile. On the other hand, the Sky POM is crafted entirely from POM material, offering a premium quality switch at an accessible price point with a clacky sound and exceptional smoothness. The Blue Sky switch is categorized as 'High-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished', while the Sky POM is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky'. Both switches have their unique characteristics and benefits, making them suitable for different preferences and typing needs. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Dareu Sky POM, a key difference lies in their respective top housings. The Blue Sky utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with enhanced clarity and resonance. On the other hand, the Sky POM features a POM top housing, renowned for producing a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique sonic characteristics, the choice between a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, more soothing sound ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Blue Sky and the Sky POM opt for a nylon material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that adds a layer of complexity to the overall typing experience. With both switches utilizing nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect a similar typing experience with deeper and more robust sound profiles that enhance the tactile feedback of each keystroke.
Although the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Blue Sky and the Sky POM, the impact of each material on the overall sound profile is split between the top and bottom of the switch, respectively. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. This split in sound characteristics showcases how the choice of housing materials can affect the overall typing experience, offering users a tailored sound profile based on their preferences.
Weight
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force compared to the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, with 50 grams versus 40 grams, respectively. Both switches have a similar medium weight when it comes to bottom out force, with the Blue Sky requiring 60 grams and the Sky POM having an unknown force. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - lighter switches like the Sky POM may be preferred for longer typing sessions, while the heavier actuation of the Blue Sky could be better for those looking for a more substantial typing experience. In either case, the actuation and bottom out forces are similar enough that users can expect comparable results in terms of feel and performance.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, slightly longer than the Dareu Sky POM linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Blue Sky offers a slightly deeper key press compared to the Sky POM. While both switches fall within the more traditional travel distance range, the Blue Sky might provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a bit more resistance while typing. On the other hand, the Sky POM with its slightly shorter travel distance may be favored by gamers looking for quicker responsiveness in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing 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 Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, making it a great choice for those who prefer a brighter sound. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch produces a low-pitched, bass-heavy tone, offering a mellower sound experience. When it comes to feel, the Blue Sky switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle yet refined touch that appeals to a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch is noted for its buttery, creamy, and silky feel, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that effortlessly glides under the fingers. Overall, while the Blue Sky and Sky POM switches differ in sound and feel characteristics, both provide exceptional quality and a satisfying typing experience, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Whether you prefer a brighter, sharper sound with a polished feel or a mellower, smoother sound with a buttery sensation, both switches offer top-notch performance that will enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a high-pitched sound with a polished typing experience, the Blue Sky may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no bottom out force listed, a low-pitched sound profile, and a buttery or silky typing feel, then the Sky POM switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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