Aflion Blue Sky vs. SP-Star Yanyu

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are countless options to choose from, each offering a unique typing experience. Two switches that stand out among the rest are the Aflion Blue Sky and the SP-Star Yanyu, both of which fall under the category of linear switches. The Blue Sky switch is renowned for its long pole stem, providing users with a crystal clear linear typing experience. It offers a sparkling sound profile and an impeccably smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is best suited for individuals seeking a more delicate typing experience or those who spend extended periods typing. Its material blend gives it a crisp sound profile, delivering a subtle yet satisfying thocky feel. While these general characteristics can aid in making an initial decision, delving deeper into the specifics will ultimately allow you to determine the best switch for your personal preferences and needs. So, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make an informed choice.

By the numbers

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

SP-Star Yanyu Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Blue Sky and the SP-Star Yanyu differ in their housing materials, resulting in contrasting sound profiles. The Blue Sky features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Yanyu utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, resulting in a sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side. This unique blend offers a pleasant sound, but it lacks the sharpness of the Blue Sky.

In terms of bottom housing, the Blue Sky utilizes nylon, a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder profile. In contrast, the Yanyu utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing. This blend retains the pleasant sound profile found in the top housing, which is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter end. The Yanyu's bottom housing material contributes to the overall sound, creating a softer, yet still lively, acoustic response.

While there are differences in the materials used for the top and bottom housings, pressing down on both switches will provide a unique experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as impact and bottom-out sound, will be felt when pressing the switch. The Blue Sky's nylon bottom housing will contribute to a deeper and fuller sound, while the Yanyu's blend will retain its pleasant and brighter sound. On the other hand, the top housing of a switch has more impact on the sound when releasing a key. The Blue Sky's polycarbonate top housing will create a sharper and crisper sound, while the Yanyu's blend will maintain its bright and pleasant tone. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer their own distinct sound profiles that can be appreciated by keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are notable differences. The Blue Sky has an actuation force of 50 grams, providing a medium-level resistance to trigger a keystroke. In comparison, the actuation force of the Yanyu is unavailable, which means its force requirement to initiate a keystroke is unknown. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Blue Sky requires 60 grams of force, while the Yanyu requires 43 grams. This makes the Yanyu lighter in terms of the force required to press the keys all the way down, offering a more gentle typing experience. However, if one prefers the feeling of a stronger push and a more substantial typing feedback, the Blue Sky's slightly heavier bottom out force might be more appealing. Overall, those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Yanyu, while those who desire a more robust typing experience may opt for the Blue Sky.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a switch plays a significant role in determining the typing experience. In the case of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, pressing down on either key will result in a similar tactile feeling and distance covered. This similarity ensures that users will achieve consistent results when utilizing either switch. Consequently, whether using the Aflion Blue Sky or the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, users can expect to experience the same travel distance and corresponding sensation when pressing down on the keys.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is known for its crystal clear linear typing experience. It offers a high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This may appeal to those who prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile. The switch also provides a mild typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing feel. The reduced friction and smooth key travel contribute to a polished typing experience. Overall, the Blue Sky switch offers a gentle and approachable feel, suitable for most users.

On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is perfect for those seeking a more delicate typing experience or typing for extended periods. The Yanyu switch has a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound when pressed. This makes it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. Additionally, the Yanyu switch provides a feathery feel, being exceptionally light to press and requiring little finger exertion. This reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for gaming, school, or work. The switch also has a subtle resistance, providing a light typing feel without being feather-light. Like the Blue Sky, the Yanyu switch is also polished, resulting in reduced friction, smooth key travel, and an overall sleek typing experience.

In conclusion, both the Aflion Blue Sky and the SP-Star Yanyu switches offer a pleasant typing experience with their own unique qualities. While the Blue Sky switch provides a crystal clear linear typing experience and a high-pitched sound profile, the Yanyu switch is more suitable for those looking for a delicate typing experience or extended typing sessions. Both switches have a neutral sound profile and a mild typing feel. Additionally, they both benefit from being polished, which results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Therefore, if you prefer a similar experience, you can expect similar results from either switch. However, it's important to consider your personal preferences and the specific usage scenarios to make an informed decision.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a sparkling sound profile, the Aflion Blue Sky switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a crystal clear linear typing experience with their long pole stem, resulting in an exquisitely smooth push feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more delicate typing experience, the SP-Star Yanyu switch would be more suitable. These switches are perfect for extended typing sessions as they have a feathery feel and reduce finger fatigue. Additionally, the Yanyu switch has a crisp sound profile and is suitable for shared spaces. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Yanyu Linear

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

Learn more