Aflion Blue Sky vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky and the Dareu Sky V4 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Blue Sky switch boasts a long pole stem, providing a crystal clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch stands out for its use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature that complements its smooth linear action for a rich typing experience. While the Blue Sky switch is categorized as high-pitched, neutral, mild, polished, the Sky V4 switch falls under thocky, neutral, low-pitched, bouncy. Both switches have their own strengths, making them suitable for different preferences. However, let's delve 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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
Both the Aflion Blue Sky and the Dareu Sky V4 feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Blue Sky's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, perfect for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Sky V4's POK top housing provides a smooth and clacky feel, with exceptional durability and wear resistance. While both materials offer different qualities, they both excel in providing a quality typing experience, albeit with slightly different characteristics.
On the other hand, both the Blue Sky and the Sky V4 feature nylon bottom housings, which create a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This softer material absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound when typing. While the top housing may have more influence on the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. In this case, both switches offer a similar sound profile due to the shared nylon bottom housing material.
Overall, the Aflion Blue Sky and the Dareu Sky V4 offer unique housing materials that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel. The Blue Sky's emphasis on polycarbonate for the top housing provides a clear and resonant sound profile, while the Dareu Sky V4's POK material offers a smooth and durable typing experience. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, making them suitable choices for those who prefer a softer typing feel. Whether looking for a sharper sound profile or a smoother typing experience, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to a variety of typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, we can see that the Blue Sky has a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force compared to the Sky V4. The Blue Sky requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, while the Sky V4 only needs 45 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out. This difference in force can result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Sky V4, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions. However, some users may prefer the slightly heavier feel of the Blue Sky for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range in terms of actuation and bottom out force, providing a balanced typing experience for different preferences.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Blue Sky has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Sky V4. This means that when pressing down on a key with the Blue Sky switch, you will feel a slightly greater distance traveled compared to the Sky V4. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sky V4, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Blue Sky switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences when it comes to key press depth and responsiveness.
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 V4 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 V4 for $4.76.
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 considering sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch delivers a high-pitched and crystal clear sound that offers a sharp and crisp typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch provides a deeper and thocky sound profile, creating a rich and satisfying typing experience with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. The sound produced by these switches will vary based on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. Moving on to feel, the Blue Sky switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, characterized by a gentle and refined key press. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch provides a bouncy sensation with spring-like feedback, resulting in a lively and responsive typing experience. In conclusion, choosing between the Aflion Blue Sky and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switches ultimately depends on personal preference for sound and feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a medium bottom out force and enjoy a clear, sparkling sound profile with smooth linear action, the Blue Sky switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and appreciate a deeper, thocky sound with a rich typing experience, the Sky V4 switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences.
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