Aflion Blue Sky vs. KTT Strawberry

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available, each offering a unique typing experience. Two popular choices are the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Strawberry, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The Blue Sky, with its long pole stem, provides a crystal clear linear typing experience. Its high-pitched and neutral sound profile, along with its smooth push feel, make it a preferred choice for those seeking a refined and mild typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry switches are known for their attractive pink and clear housings. These delectable switches offer a low-pitched sound, along with a frictionless and silky feel. With a buttery and polished actuation, the Strawberry switches guarantee a comfortable and reliable 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

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

KTT Strawberry Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$4.91 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Strawberry both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, particularly if RGB lighting is used. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and visual effects from the top housings of both switches.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Blue Sky utilizes a nylon material while the Strawberry retains the use of polycarbonate. Nylon, being a softer plastic, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. It absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing on the Strawberry maintains the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile associated with this material. It complements the qualities of the top housing, offering a consistent overall sound experience.

The difference in bottom housings means that the sound and feel of each switch will be influenced differently. Pressing down on the Blue Sky will result in a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound and feel, thanks to its nylon bottom housing. In contrast, the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing will provide a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the release sound of the key will be affected more by the top housing, as it has a stronger impact on the sound when you let go. Overall, while the top housings provide similar results, the difference in bottom housings gives each switch its own unique acoustic characteristics.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Blue Sky switch is slightly heavier at 50 grams compared to the Strawberry's 43 grams, making the Blue Sky switch require a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. However, the Strawberry switch has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Blue Sky's 60 grams. This means that while the Blue Sky switch may have a heavier initial feel, the Strawberry switch will provide a more substantial typing experience when fully pressed down. Both switches fall under the medium force category, which is suitable for those who prefer a balance between light and heavy switches. Ultimately, if you prefer a lighter typing experience, the Strawberry switch may be the better choice, while those looking for a slightly heavier feel may lean towards the Blue Sky switch.

Travel distance

The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience with their identical travel distances.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is best described as having a high-pitched sound profile. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, making them a great choice if you prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile. These switches offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used. Therefore, while the Blue Sky and Strawberry switches have different sound profiles, the choice of board and keycaps can help achieve similar results.

When it comes to feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is described as mild and polished. These switches offer a gentle and refined typing experience, with qualities that fall within a safe middle-ground zone. The materials used and possible factory lubing contribute to reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. These switches provide an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Similarly to the sound comparison, the feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used. While the Blue Sky and Strawberry switches have some differences in their feel, the choice of board and keycaps can help create a similar experience.

In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a crystal clear linear typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile and a mild and polished feel. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is loved for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. It has a low-pitched sound profile and offers a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. While the Blue Sky and Strawberry switches may have different sound and feel qualities, both switches provide enjoyable typing experiences. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference, with considerations for the desired sound and feel characteristics.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force, both the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Strawberry switches are suitable options for you. The Blue Sky switches offer a crystal clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Strawberry switches are loved for their smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance.

In terms of sound, the Blue Sky switches produce a high-pitched and neutral sound when pressed. If you prefer a sharp and crisp sound, the Blue Sky switches are a good choice. On the other hand, the Strawberry switches have a low-pitched sound profile, which is more bass-heavy and mellow.

When it comes to feel, the Blue Sky switches offer a mild and polished typing experience. They have a more gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Strawberry switches, on the other hand, provide a frictionless, silky, and buttery typing experience. They offer an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing sensation.

Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Strawberry switches comes down to your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a high-pitched sound with a neutral feel, the Blue Sky switches would be a good fit for you. However, if you prefer a low-pitched sound with a frictionless and silky feel, the Strawberry switches would be the better choice. Consider what qualities are most important to you and make the decision based on that. Happy typing!

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

KTT Strawberry Linear

$4.91 per 10

Learn more