Aflion Blue Sky vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options worth considering are the Aflion Blue Sky and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The Blue Sky switch is known for its long pole stem, providing a crystal clear linear typing experience. With a high-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished sound profile, this switch offers an exquisitely smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch boasts a medium level of tactility, making it perfect for those who prefer a tactile typing experience. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, this switch offers a very approachable tactility. Additionally, it features a deep and thocky sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches share certain similarities. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting.
Where the two switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Blue Sky utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which imparts a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer compared to polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring features a polycarbonate bottom housing. This means that the qualities of the bottom housing, such as the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, will differ between the two switches.
When it comes to the sound upon releasing a key, the top housing plays a significant role. Since both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, their sound profiles upon key release are likely to be similar. However, it's important to note that the differences in bottom housing material will still have an impact on overall sound and feel.
In summary, the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches have both similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. However, their bottom housings differ, with the Blue Sky using nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring using polycarbonate for a clearer and more resonant sound. Overall, the differences in bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel, while the similarities in top housing will influence the sound upon key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Blue Sky switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which can be considered medium in terms of weight. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch could be a suitable choice, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. This can be advantageous for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as the lighter actuation force may reduce fatigue. Conversely, the Blue Sky switch offers a slightly heavier push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer that tactile feedback.
It is worth noting that while the forces required for actuation and bottoming out differ between these two switches, they both fall into the medium range. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of the overall typing experience, with slight variances in the sensation and effort required. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences, with those desiring a lighter feel favoring the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch and those seeking a heavier touch leaning towards the Aflion Blue Sky switch.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Both switches provide a consistent tactile feedback and require the same amount of force to actuate. Therefore, whether you choose the Blue Sky or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance and overall typing experience.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for $3.57.
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
The Blue Sky linear switch is known for its crystal clear linear typing experience, offering a smooth push feel. Its sound profile is described as either high-pitched or neutral, depending on the preference for a sharper or more moderate sound. This switch provides a mild typing experience in terms of feel, with a polished finish that results in smooth key travel and reduced friction.
On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is recommended for those seeking a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility. It has a lower actuation and bottom-out force, providing an approachable tactility when used. The sound profile of this switch is described as deep and thocky, though further details are unknown. Its feel is characterized as bouncy, giving a spring-like feedback sensation when pressed.
In conclusion, the Blue Sky linear switch offers a clear and smooth typing experience with a choice of a high-pitched or neutral sound profile. Its feel is mild and polished, providing a comfortable typing experience. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, on the other hand, offers a medium level of tactility with a deep and thocky sound profile. Its feel is bouncy, giving a lively rebound when pressed. Depending on your preferences, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Keep in mind that other factors, such as the chosen keyboard and keycaps, can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a linear switch with a clear and smooth typing experience, the Aflion Blue Sky switch would be an excellent choice. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a comfortable and responsive feel while typing. The Blue Sky switch also features a high-pitched sound profile, which produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Additionally, its mild and polished characteristics make it suitable for most users, as it provides a gentle and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is highly recommended. With a slightly lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, this switch offers an approachable level of tactility. Its deep and thocky sound profile adds to the satisfying typing experience. The Shadow Single Spring switch has a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and lively key rebound.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch depends on your preference for a linear or tactile switch and the desired typing experience. Consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and feel to determine which switch aligns with your typing preferences and needs.
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