Aflion Blue Sky vs. Gateron Box CJ
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Box CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Box CJ are two popular options to consider. The Blue Sky is a linear switch known for its crystal clear typing experience and smooth push feel, while the Box CJ offers rapid response with higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth glide. The Blue Sky is categorized as 'High-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished', while the Box CJ is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Chirpy'. Choosing between these two switches may come down to personal preferences such as typing style and sound profile. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Yes
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Box CJ feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, it is important to note that the bottom housings differ.
The Blue Sky's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Box CJ's nylon bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of a switch impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, providing a unique typing experience. Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their bottom housing, the different qualities each housing material brings to the switch can be felt when typing.
In summary, the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Box CJ differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Blue Sky featuring nylon for a deeper sound profile and the Box CJ offering a rounder sound due to the same material. However, both switches share a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharp, high-pitched sound profile ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. The qualities of each housing material impact the sound and feel of the switches differently when typing, providing users with a choice between a sharper sound profile with the Blue Sky or a rounder sound with the Box CJ.
Weight
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Box CJ linear switch both fall into the medium actuation force category, with the Blue Sky requiring 50 grams and the Box CJ needing 45 grams to actuate. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Sky is slightly heavier at 60 grams compared to the Box CJ's 57 grams, which makes the Box CJ a bit lighter. For those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, the Blue Sky may be the preferred choice due to its slightly higher bottom out force. On the other hand, those looking for a lighter touch may lean towards the Box CJ. Both switches offer a balanced actuation force that is not too heavy or too light, providing users with a comfortable typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Box CJ linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when typing on a keyboard with either of these switches, you will experience a similar keypress feel in terms of travel distance. This similarity allows for consistent typing experience across both switches, making it easier for users to adapt to different keyboards equipped with either switch. In terms of travel distance, both switches are on par with each other, offering a standard experience for users who prefer a 4 mm travel distance.
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 Gateron Box CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box CJ for $5.35.
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 Blue Sky linear switch is best suited for those who prefer a high-pitched and sharp sound when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offers a clacky sound profile with sharp and percussive characteristics. Both switches fall under the category of neutral sound profiles, making them versatile options for various typing preferences. However, the Box CJ also introduces a chirpy sound element, adding a unique acoustic signature compared to the Blue Sky. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Blue Sky and Box CJ linear switches offer a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel for most users. The Blue Sky switch is known for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience due to either the materials used or factory lubing. Similarly, the Box CJ linear switch also falls under the mild category, offering a comfortable typing feel without overly pronounced characteristics. The Box CJ comes unlubed, allowing users to customize the level of smoothness to their liking, whether opting for a drier, raw expression or adding lubrication for enhanced smoothness.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Blue Sky switch provides a high-pitched sound and polished typing experience, the Box CJ switch delivers a clacky sound with the option for customization through lubrication. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile, typing feel, and customization options. If you prefer a high-pitched sound and smoother finish, the Blue Sky may be the ideal choice, while those seeking a clacky sound and customization potential may lean towards the Box CJ.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch versus the Gateron Box CJ linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific typing needs. If you prioritize a crystal clear linear typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a high-pitched sound profile, the Blue Sky may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a swift response, higher-pitched clacks, and a medium-light bottom out force, the Gateron Box CJ might be the better option. Both switches offer smooth push feels, but the Box CJ comes unlubed, allowing for customization to your exacting standards. Whether you prefer a more polished feel or a slightly chirpy sound, both switches cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and desired sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
