Bsun Akashi vs. Aflion Blue Sky
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Aflion Blue Sky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch to the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch, there are some key differences to take into consideration. The Akashi switches are revered for their innovative design featuring a UPE stem and a unique housing combo of POM top and nylon bottom, resulting in a distinct sound profile with bright, crisp bottom-out and deep acoustic richness. On the other hand, the Blue Sky switches are praised for their crystal clear linear typing experience due to the long pole stem, offering a sparkling sound profile and exceptionally smooth push feel. While the Akashi is described as 'clacky', 'creamy', and 'snappy', the Blue Sky is characterized as 'high-pitched', 'mild', and 'neutral'. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. 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
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and the Aflion Blue Sky both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. While the Akashi utilizes a POM top housing, known for creating a deeper and more muted sound, the Blue Sky opts for a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound. Despite their differences, both housing materials offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Blue Sky allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Akashi and the Blue Sky utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with a focus on sound quality. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that the impact of each keystroke is dampened, leading to a more comfortable typing experience overall.
When comparing the overall sound profiles of the Akashi and the Blue Sky, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in shaping the typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housings of a switch allows for a more nuanced sound profile, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences in housing materials, both switches offer unique benefits that cater to different preferences, whether it be a deeper and fuller sound profile with nylon or a sharper and crisper sound with polycarbonate. Ultimately, the choice between the Akashi and the Blue Sky will come down to individual preferences for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch, it's evident that there are differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Blue Sky has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Akashi would provide a lighter typing experience compared to the Blue Sky, which offers a more substantial push feel. The Akashi is better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Blue Sky is ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced keystroke feedback. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Blue Sky the longer option by 0.3 mm. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Akashi's slightly shorter travel distance may provide a more responsive feel, whereas the Blue Sky's slightly longer travel distance may offer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either quick and snappy keystrokes or a more deliberate key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
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.
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 Bsun Akashi linear switch is known for its clacky and percussive sound profile, which is sharp and bright, providing a unique auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a high-pitched sound that is crisp and sharp, making it suitable for those who prefer a more sparkling sound profile. However, the choice of keyboard and keycaps will also play a role in influencing the overall sound quality of both switches.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Akashi linear switch is praised for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience. The smooth and buttery sensation of these switches, combined with their responsiveness, offers a luxurious typing feel that minimizes resistance and enhances overall comfort during extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentler typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. The reduced friction and smooth key travel of these switches contribute to a sleek and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi and Aflion Blue Sky linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Akashi provides a clacky and resonant sound profile, paired with a creamy and polished typing feel that prioritizes smoothness and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Blue Sky switch offers a high-pitched sound and a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. Despite their unique characteristics, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a light bottom out force and a unique sound profile, the Bsun Akashi would be a great choice. With its creamy, frictionless, and polished feel, accompanied by a clacky sound, this switch offers a smooth and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a crystal clear sound profile, the Aflion Blue Sky would be the way to go. Offering a mild and polished feel, along with a high-pitched and neutral sound, the Blue Sky switch provides a gentle yet sparkling typing experience. Ultimately, your decision between the Akashi and Blue Sky switches would depend on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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