Aflion Blue Sky vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Blue Sky and the PH Studio Yoel. The Blue Sky, a linear switch, is favored for its long pole stem which provides a crystal clear typing experience accompanied by a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Yoel, also a linear switch, boasts a chewy typing experience that envelops fingertips with each press, producing a bright and clacky sound profile that resonates satisfyingly upon key bottom-out. While the Blue Sky is characterized as 'High-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Mild', the Yoel is classified as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', and 'Silky'. Each switch offers unique qualities that may appeal to different 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
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Blue Sky and the PH Studio Yoel utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, allowing for a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. The similarities in top housing material between the two switches ensure that users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetics.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Blue Sky features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs sound. On the other hand, the Yoel utilizes a POM bottom housing, resulting in a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. This contrast in bottom housing materials gives each switch its own distinct sound characteristics and typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Aflion Blue Sky and the PH Studio Yoel plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of the switches. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, their differences in bottom housing materials result in distinct sound profiles. Whether you prefer a sharper and more resonant sound from polycarbonate or a deeper and fuller sound from nylon or POM, both switches offer unique typing experiences worth considering.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch reveals some similarities and differences. The Blue Sky has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Yoel has an actuation force of 53 grams, making the Yoel slightly heavier in this aspect. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating that they offer a similar resistance when fully pressed down. The Blue Sky may feel slightly lighter to the touch during regular typing due to its lower actuation force, making it potentially more suitable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Yoel's slightly heavier actuation force may provide a more tactile typing experience for those who prefer a firmer keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out resistance.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Blue Sky offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the key compared to the Yoel. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Yoel, while those who enjoy a more substantial press may lean towards the Blue Sky. Both switches offer different experiences when it comes to travel distance, so it ultimately depends on personal preference for which one would be the better 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 PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a high-pitched profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which is suitable for those who prefer a more treble-focused tone. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch provides a clacky and resonant sound, with a bright and percussive quality that adds a pronounced resonance upon bottoming out, creating a satisfying auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their sound preference.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Blue Sky switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristic provides a gentle typing feel, while the polished finish results in a smooth and refined keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. In comparison, the PH Studio Yoel switch is characterized as creamy and polished, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a silky sensation. Both switches emphasize smooth key travel and reduced friction, allowing for effortless keystrokes and a comfortable typing feel.
Considering the available information, the Aflion Blue Sky and PH Studio Yoel linear switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Sky switch provides a high-pitched sound and a mild typing experience, the Yoel switch offers a clacky sound profile and a creamy typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preference for sound and feel, with both switches delivering a satisfying and premium typing experience. Users can expect reliable performance and top-notch quality from both Aflion and PH Studio switches, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable typing experience regardless of their selection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a crystal clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel, the Blue Sky switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that resonates satisfyingly at the bottom-out point, the Yoel switch could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, so the decision comes down to the sound and feel that align best with your personal typing style.
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