Huano Acacia vs. Aflion Blue Sky

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Acacia and the Aflion Blue Sky offer distinct yet appealing options in the linear category. The Acacia switch is celebrated for its medium-light weight, generous factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble, resulting in an exceptional typing experience right out of the box. This switch is an excellent choice for users seeking a reliable and comfortable feel during prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the Aflion Blue Sky switch features a long pole stem that delivers a crystal-clear linear typing experience, characterized by a sparkling sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel. The Blue Sky switch, with its high-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished qualities, is ideal for those who prioritize auditory feedback along with smooth actuation. Both switches have their unique advantages, catering to different preferences among users; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Acacia Linear

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

$3.39 per 10

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Huano Acacia and the Aflion Blue Sky share a notable similarity in their choice of materials for their top housing, both utilizing polycarbonate. This commonality results in a strikingly similar sound profile; the polycarbonate facilitates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffer nature. With its excellent translucency, the polycarbonate used in both switches enhances the visual appeal when RGB lighting is deployed, illuminating the clear housing beautifully. Thus, users can expect a consistent auditory experience characterized by clarity and resonance when using either switch, particularly when letting go of the keys, where the impact of the top housing is most significant.

In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches is made from nylon, which further contributes to the overall sound profile by introducing a deeper and fuller resonance. Due to nylon's relatively softer composition, it absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, creating a rounder, more muted tone that balances the sound produced by the polycarbonate top. While both switches deliver this more subdued sound character when typing, the differing materials for top and bottom housing allow users to experience a dynamic range; the lively treble from polycarbonate complemented by the warm bass from nylon enriches overall performance.

The thoughtful integration of these two types of materials in the Huano Acacia and the Aflion Blue Sky demonstrates how different properties can be harnessed to create a synergistic experience. While the switches may utilize the same materials in their top and bottom housings respectively, their combined effects are what makes each switch unique to a user's typing experience. By blending the characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon, both switches effectively deliver distinct auditory results that can satisfy varying preferences—sharp clarity from the top and rounded fullness from the bottom, ensuring that users enjoy a well-rounded performance no matter which switch they choose.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Acacia linear switch with the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom-out forces emerge. The Acacia switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light option that may be more suitable for users who prefer lighter switches for longer typing sessions or extensive gaming. In contrast, the Blue Sky switch features a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom-out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium force switch. This added resistance can provide a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who favor a firmer push. Overall, the Acacia is the lighter option, while the Blue Sky is heavier, suggesting that users seeking a less strenuous typing experience might gravitate towards the Huano Acacia, while those desiring a more pronounced feedback with each keystroke may prefer the Aflion Blue Sky.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch, we find distinct differences. The Acacia features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Blue Sky offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Blue Sky has a slightly deeper press, which can provide a more substantial tactile experience for those who favor a hearty depth in their key presses. Conversely, the Acacia's shorter travel distance may cater to gamers or users who appreciate quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Therefore, if response time is your priority, the Acacia would be the preferable choice, whereas if you enjoy a more pronounced depth in your keystrokes, the Blue Sky would suit you better.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Acacia switch is known for its crisp and moderate sound profile, making it versatile enough for both home and office environments. It balances the auditory experience well and isn't overly obtrusive, allowing for a pleasant typing atmosphere. In contrast, the Blue Sky switch features a sparkling sound profile characterized by its high-pitched clarity. This switch is designed to produce sharp, crisp sounds that are appealing to those who prefer a lighter auditory experience over richer, bass-heavy sound profiles. If you enjoy a prominent click or sharper sound with each keystroke, the Blue Sky is likely your preferred choice.

On the feel front, the Acacia switch excels due to its medium-light weight and generous factory lubrication, leading to a typing experience that feels smooth and comfortable right from the start. There’s minimal stem wobble, which adds to the tangible satisfaction when typing. The Blue Sky switch, on the other hand, offers a mild and polished feel. Its gentle typing experience may appeal to users who value a more refined interaction while retaining an approachable quality. The smooth push feel of the Blue Sky is accentuated by its long pole stem and polished characteristics, resulting in reduced friction and an overall delight during extended typing sessions.

In conclusion, both the Acacia and Blue Sky switches offer unique yet satisfying experiences tailored to different preferences. The Acacia leans toward a balanced auditory and tactile feel, ideal for users who prioritize overall comfort and versatility. Meanwhile, the Blue Sky focuses on a sharper sound and refined feel, catering to those who love a more pronounced auditory response. Regardless of your choice, each switch is designed to provide a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience, ensuring that either option could lead to satisfying results tailored to your personal taste and typing style.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch, consider what aspects of the typing experience resonate with you the most. If you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a generously lubricated switch that offers minimal stem wobble, the Acacia may be the optimal choice. This switch delivers a pleasant typing feel right out of the box, making it an appealing option for those who prioritize a smooth experience for both gaming and typing tasks. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a slightly firmer feel with a medium bottom-out force, the Blue Sky could be more suited to your tastes. Its long pole stem contributes to a crystal clear linear typing sound and a polished push feel, making it ideal for users who appreciate a sparkly sound profile and refined keyboard feedback. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal typing preferences and intended use, whether you lean towards the Acacia's comfort and lightness or the Blue Sky's smoothness and distinctive clarity.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Acacia Linear

$3.39 per 10

Learn more

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more