Aflion Blue Sky vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offer distinct typing experiences for users to consider. The Blue Sky is a linear switch known for its long pole stem, providing a clear and smooth typing experience with a sparkling sound profile. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow is a tactile switch that features a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel, creating a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature. If you prefer a linear and polished typing feel, the Blue Sky may be the right choice for you. Alternatively, if you enjoy a tactile bump and a balanced weight, the Thunder Shadow could suit your 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Blue Sky and Aflion Thunder Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting. However, the bottom housings differ between the two models, with the Blue Sky featuring a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Thunder Shadow also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound.
The split between the top and bottom housings of the Aflion Blue Sky and Aflion Thunder Shadow allows for different qualities from each housing material to impact the overall sound profile of the switch. When using the Blue Sky, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will be more noticeable during bottom-out sound and feel, while the impact of the polycarbonate top housing will be more prominent when releasing a key. Similarly, the Thunder Shadow will showcase the characteristics of the nylon bottom housing in its typing experience, with the polycarbonate top housing influencing the sound when keys are released. Despite the differences in housing materials, both models offer a unique typing experience with a mix of sharp, crisp sound and deeper, fuller tones.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky and Aflion Thunder Shadow both offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, with polycarbonate top housings providing a sharper and crisper sound and nylon bottom housings contributing to a deeper and fuller sound. While the top and bottom housings vary between the two models, the overall typing experience is likely to be similar due to the unique characteristics of each housing material. Whether you prefer the clear, resonant sound of polycarbonate or the absorbing, round sound of nylon, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience suited to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Blue Sky has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium force switch. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy force switch. The Blue Sky is the lighter option between the two, which is preferred by those who want a gentler typing experience for extended periods of time. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow offers a heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Blue Sky offers a bit more depth in keypress compared to the Thunder Shadow. The difference might not be significant to some users, but those who prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more deliberate keypress may lean towards the Blue Sky switch. On the other hand, those looking for a quicker response time and a more immediate feel might prefer the Thunder Shadow switch. Overall, both switches offer a decent travel distance for various preferences, so you can expect similar results in terms of typing experience with either choice.
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 Aflion Thunder Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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 is known for its high-pitched and sharp sound profile, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a more neutral and moderate sound. Both switches provide a pleasant auditory experience, with the Blue Sky delivering a crisper tone and the Thunder Shadow maintaining a balanced sound signature. Factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used can also influence the overall sound quality.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is characterized by its mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and smooth feel that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch provides an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. Both switches excel in their respective tactile feedback, with the Blue Sky leaning towards a more polished and refined experience while the Thunder Shadow offers a more engaging and immersive typing sensation.
Overall, whether you choose the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch or the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with distinctive characteristics. The Blue Sky will provide a linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel, while the Thunder Shadow offers a tactile bump and medium weight feel with a neutral sound signature. Both switches showcase Aflion's commitment to innovation and precision in switch design, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a crystal clear linear typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a high-pitched sound profile, the Blue Sky switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a tactile bump, a harmonious balance, and a neutral sound profile with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Thunder Shadow switch could be more suited to your needs. Consider your typing preferences, whether you prefer a mild and polished feel or an invigorating typing sensation, to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that aligns best with your personal preferences and typing experience.
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