Aflion Blush vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options to consider are the Aflion Blush and the Dareu Sky POM, both of which are linear switches. The Aflion Blush is renowned for its smooth and snappy feel, thanks to its longer two-stage spring and long pole design, resulting in a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM offers premium quality at a budget-friendly price point, with a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force. While the Blush is characterized as low-pitched, creamy, silky, buttery, the Sky POM is categorized as buttery, low-pitched, creamy, silky. Each switch has its own unique features and benefits, appealing to different preferences and needs. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the Dareu Sky POM both have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The Blush features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Sky POM utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. Despite their differences, both housing materials offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Blush's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Sky POM also incorporates nylon for similar sound characteristics.
The choice of housing materials for switches significantly impacts the overall sound and feel of the typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Aflion Blush provides a clear and resonant sound that is complemented by the nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM's POM top housing creates a unique and pleasing sound that is further enhanced by the nylon bottom housing. Both switches offer a combination of materials that work together to deliver a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound characteristics.
While the Aflion Blush and the Dareu Sky POM have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both aim to provide a high-quality typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a balance of different sound qualities when typing on these switches. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in materials, both switches offer a blend of characteristics that cater to various preferences and contribute to an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The Aflion Blush linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch have different characteristics when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Blush has a bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a medium typing experience, while its actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Sky POM has an actuation force of 40 grams but lacks information on its bottom out force. The difference in the actuation force between the two switches could result in a lighter feel for the Sky POM compared to the Blush. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sky POM may be the better choice, whereas individuals who enjoy a more substantial keystroke may lean towards the Blush. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and overall feel of the switches.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Blush offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Sky POM. The difference may seem minimal, but for those who prioritize quick response times, the Blush may be the preferred choice. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress feel, the Sky POM with its longer travel distance could be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Blush has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blush for $4.07.
The Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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, both the Aflion Blush and Dareu Sky POM switches offer a low-pitched tone, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so individual results may vary.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Blush switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience with a seamless and effortless sensation. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch also provides a buttery and creamy typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and minimizing resistance for a comfortable and uniform feel while typing. Both switches aim to provide a high-quality typing experience through their smooth and buttery characteristics.
Overall, both the Aflion Blush and Dareu Sky POM linear switches offer similar low-pitched sound profiles and smooth, buttery typing experiences. While individual preferences may lean towards one switch over the other based on personal nuances, both switches provide a premium quality typing experience that will satisfy newcomers and enthusiasts alike. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on the user's specific preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a smooth, full, and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature, the Blush switch with its medium bottom out force of 58 grams might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a premium quality switch at an affordable price point, characterized by a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force, then the Sky POM switch crafted entirely from POM material could be the perfect fit for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose wisely based on what aspects matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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