Aflion Blue Sky vs. HMX Blue Topaz
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX Blue Topaz switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX Blue Topaz mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Blue Sky switch is renowned for its long pole stem, providing a crystal clear linear typing experience with a high-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished sound profile. On the other hand, the Blue Topaz switch stands out for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, offering an easy-to-press and clacky typing experience. While the Blue Sky switch offers a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel, the Blue Topaz switch boasts a distinctive glitter housing and clacky sound signature. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference; 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
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX Blue Topaz feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. In terms of sound quality, both switches offer a similar experience with their polycarbonate top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Aflion Blue Sky utilizes nylon, while the HMX Blue Topaz also uses nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to stiffer plastics, as it absorbs more sound. Therefore, both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel due to their nylon bottom housings.
Overall, the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX Blue Topaz differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with both offering unique sound profiles based on the materials used. While the top housings are the same in terms of polycarbonate, the bottom housing material affects the overall typing experience, with nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound compared to stiffer plastics. Both switches aim to offer a high-quality typing experience, but the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and feel of each key press.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch to the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Sky is heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out force compared to the Blue Topaz. The Blue Sky has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. The Blue Sky provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher force requirements, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Blue Topaz offers a lighter feel with lower force requirements, which is perfect for users who value extended typing sessions without fatigue. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately boils down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and force sensitivity.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the typical range of travel distances for linear switches, with the Blue Topaz being slightly shorter than the Blue Sky. Gamers may prefer the Blue Topaz for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Blue Sky. Overall, the differences in travel distance between these two switches are minimal, and users can expect similar performance from both in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness.
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 HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
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 Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch produces a clacky sound, described as sharp, bright, and percussive. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Blue Sky having a more neutral sound profile compared to the clacky sound of the Blue Topaz. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and the overall sound aesthetic desired for the keyboard setup.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a gentle feel that most users will find approachable. It is also described as polished, offering a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a low-impact typing feel that enhances the overall typing experience. While both switches offer smooth key travel, the Blue Sky leans towards a more mild and polished feel, while the Blue Topaz focuses on ease of pressing and minimal resistance.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Sky provides a high-pitched sound and a mild, polished typing experience, while the Blue Topaz presents a clacky sound and an easy-to-press typing feel. Both switches have their own strengths and cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when choosing between the two. However, it is important to keep in mind that other factors such as keyboard layout and keycaps will also play a role in the overall typing experience and sound profile.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a high-pitched sound profile for a crystal clear linear typing experience, the Blue Sky switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a clacky sound signature with a super smooth actuation for a lightweight typing experience, the Blue Topaz switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for your typing style.
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