Aflion Blue Sky vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream

Overview

When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is clear that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Blue Sky switch is praised for its crystal clear linear typing experience and sparkling sound profile, making it a great choice for those seeking a high-pitched and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out with its remarkably smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the use of POK material in its stem and bottom housing. With a buttery and marbly sensation and a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch appeals to typists looking for a rich and resonant 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 Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream both showcase unique housing materials that contribute to their respective sound profiles. The Blue Sky features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a proprietary KTT blend top housing that offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While both materials are designed to enhance sound quality, the polycarbonate in the Blue Sky leans towards a clearer and resonant sound, while the KTT blend in the Vanilla Ice Cream leans towards a clackier and higher-pitched sound.

In terms of bottom housing materials, the Blue Sky utilizes nylon, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream features a POK bottom housing, made of polyketone, known for its smoothness, clackiness, and durability. While the nylon in the Blue Sky contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile, the POK material in the Vanilla Ice Cream offers smoothness and durability, surpassing nylon in shock resistance and wear resistance. Both materials play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing or gaming.

Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream housing materials comes down to personal preference based on the desired sound profile and typing experience. The Blue Sky's use of polycarbonate and nylon creates a balance between clarity and fullness in sound, while the Vanilla Ice Cream's blend of KTT and POK materials delivers a clackier and smoother typing experience with enhanced durability. Whichever switch is chosen, the housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the mechanical keyboard switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Sky has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's 43 grams, making it slightly heavier. Similarly, the Blue Sky also has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's 48 grams, further solidifying its heavier feel. This means that the Blue Sky switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which some users may prefer. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a lighter typing experience, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where lighter actuation forces are preferred. By considering the weight of the actuation and bottom out forces, users can determine which switch would be more suitable for their typing preferences, whether they prefer a lighter or heavier typing feel. Ultimately, both switches provide unique typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to a variety of preferences.

Travel distance

The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is shorter than the Blue Sky switch. The 0.5 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can impact the overall typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Blue Sky switch may provide a more substantial feel when typing for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the Blue Sky and Vanilla Ice Cream switches are described as having a high-pitched sound profile, producing sharp and crisp sound when pressed. However, the Vanilla Ice Cream also has descriptions of being marbly and resonant, providing a slightly different auditory experience compared to the Blue Sky. Both switches offer a unique sound signature that can cater to different preferences, ensuring that typists can enjoy a satisfying auditory feedback while typing.

In terms of feel, the Blue Sky switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is known for its buttery and creamy feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is reminiscent of its dessert-inspired name. Typists who prefer a more gentle and polished feel may lean towards the Blue Sky, while those who enjoy a buttery and creamy typing sensation may opt for the Vanilla Ice Cream.

Overall, both the Aflion Blue Sky and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. While both switches have a high-pitched sound profile, the Blue Sky leans towards a mild and polished feel, while the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a buttery and creamy typing sensation. Typists can expect a smooth and satisfying typing experience with either switch, ensuring that they can find a switch that suits their individual preferences and typing style.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a high-pitched sound profile, the Aflion Blue Sky switch would be a great choice for you. Its crystal clear linear typing experience and smooth push feel make it ideal for those who prefer a more neutral feel while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a creamy, buttery typing experience with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch would be the better option for you. Its use of POK material in the stem and bottom housing provides a remarkably smooth and creamy feel, reminiscent of its dessert namesake. Ultimately, the choice between the Blue Sky and Vanilla Ice Cream switches comes down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn more