Aflion Blush vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blush linear switch to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it becomes apparent that both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Blush switch by Aflion stands out for its smooth and snappy feel, thanks to its longer two-stage spring and long pole design, delivering a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch from Dareu incorporates POK material in its top housing, providing a deeper sound with a smooth linear action for a satisfying typing experience. While the Blush switch offers a creamy and silky feel, the Sky V4 switch delivers a thocky and bouncy typing sensation. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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
Comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the Dareu Sky V4, both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is clear and resonant. However, the Blush emphasizes its use of polycarbonate for its translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects, while the Sky V4's POK material boasts exceptional smoothness and durability. Despite both switches using polycarbonate for the top housing, the emphasis on different qualities highlights how the material can be utilized in varying ways to enhance the overall typing experience.
On the other hand, both the Blush and the Sky V4 use nylon for the bottom housing. This classic switch housing material elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. The similarities in utilizing nylon for the bottom housing suggest that both switches prioritize a specific sound profile for the bottom-out effect when typing. This consistency in choice of housing material may result in a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel, despite any potential differences in the top housing material between the two switches.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Aflion Blush and the Dareu Sky V4 demonstrate how variations in material choices can impact the sound profile and overall typing experience of a switch. While both switches prioritize specific qualities such as sound clarity, smoothness, and durability in their housing materials, the emphasis on different attributes highlights the versatility of materials like polycarbonate and nylon in creating distinct typing experiences. Whether it be the sharpness of polycarbonate in the Blush or the smoothness of POK in the Sky V4, these housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the tactile and auditory feedback of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that the Blush has a lower actuation force at None grams, while the Sky V4 has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Blush requires 58 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Sky V4's 55 grams. This means that the Blush switch offers a lighter actuation force but a heavier bottom out force compared to the Sky V4. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range in terms of force required, providing a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing experience, whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Sky V4 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Blush. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for quicker response times, the Sky V4 offers a bit more depth for those who may find shorter distances too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired 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 V4 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 V4 for $4.76.
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 Blush linear switch offers a low-pitched profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is described as thocky and neutral, giving a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile, but the Blush may offer a softer and more mellow tone compared to the Sky V4. Ultimately, sound preference is subjective and can be influenced by factors such as keycaps and keyboard build.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch is praised for its creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, thanks to its smooth and buttery keystrokes that feel like effortlessly gliding fingers across the keys. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation with lively key presses that offer rebound. While both switches offer smooth typing experiences, the Blush may provide a more luxurious and fluid sensation compared to the bouncy feedback of the Sky V4.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel qualities of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that they each offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. While the Blush excels in providing a creamy and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Sky V4 stands out for its bouncy feedback and thocky sound signature. Whether you prefer a softer, mellow typing feel or a lively, rebounding feedback, both switches offer premium qualities that can enhance your typing experience based on personal preference. Additionally, keep in mind that individual typing habits and keyboard setups can also influence how these switches perform, so experimenting with both options may be beneficial to find the perfect fit for your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a smooth and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature, the Blush switch might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, a deep and satisfying sound profile, and a bouncy feel when typing, the Sky V4 switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for feel, sound, and typing experience. Choose wisely to enhance your overall typing enjoyment.
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