Aflion Blue Sky vs. Kailh Box Jade

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Blue Sky and the Kailh Box Jade. The Blue Sky switch offers a linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Box Jade switch provides a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and noticeable tactile feedback. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps of the Box Jades make typing on them quite satisfying. Both switches have their unique advantages, and choosing between them ultimately depends on your personal preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.

By the numbers

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

Kailh Box Jade Clicky

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$5.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Kailh Box Jade switches share similar characteristics when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to both switches. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and lighting if they choose either the Blue Sky or the Box Jade.

However, the differences arise when considering the nylon bottom housings of the switches. The Blue Sky features a nylon bottom housing that adds a deeper and fuller sound profile to typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Box Jade also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, but the impact is more on the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, users can expect a difference in the sound experience and tactile feedback when using the Blue Sky compared to the Box Jade, due to the variation in their nylon bottom housings.

In summary, while both the Aflion Blue Sky and the Kailh Box Jade switches have polycarbonate top housings, which provide similar sound profiles and allow for RGB lighting, the differences lie in their nylon bottom housings. The Blue Sky offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nylon bottom housing, while the Box Jade focuses more on the bottom-out sound and feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, users can choose between these switches accordingly.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch, it is clear that both switches have identical force requirements. Both the Blue Sky and Box Jade have an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing them in the medium range. This means that users who prefer a lighter typing experience will find these switches suitable as they can type with ease for longer periods of time. Additionally, those who enjoy a more substantial and stronger push feel will also find satisfaction in both switches. Whether it be for work or long gaming sessions, users can expect similar results from both switches in terms of the force required to trigger keystrokes and the act of bottoming out. Therefore, weight may not be a significant factor when deciding between these two switches, as they offer the same level of actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch have different travel distances. The Blue Sky has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Box Jade has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize quick and responsive keystrokes, the Box Jade may be the better option for you. However, some individuals find that shorter travel distances feel too abrupt. If you prefer a deeper and more satisfying keystroke, the Blue Sky with its longer travel distance would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Blue Sky linear switch offers a high-pitched sound profile. This produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, making it a great choice for those who prefer a brighter sound profile. On the other hand, the Box Jade clicky switch also has a high-pitched sound profile, similar to the Blue Sky. Both switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which adds an element of satisfaction to the typing experience. However, it's worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Blue Sky linear switch provides a mild typing experience. It offers a gentle and smooth push feel, making it approachable for most users. The switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Box Jade clicky switch offers an invigorating typing experience. It provides pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. The switches' accented tactile bump adds a sense of tactility without being overwhelming. Both switches offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences and typing style.

Taking all the available information into account, the Blue Sky linear switch and the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch offer different but equally pleasing typing experiences. The Blue Sky provides a crystal clear, high-pitched sound profile with a mild and polished feel. On the other hand, the Box Jade offers a similar high-pitched sound profile but with an invigorating feel and accented tactile bump. Whether you prefer a linear switch or a clicky switch, both options provide satisfaction and smooth typing experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel, the Aflion Blue Sky switches are the way to go. With their long pole stem, these switches offer a crystal clear typing experience that is approachable to most users. They have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use them at home or work. Additionally, the Blue Sky switches have a mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience with a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switches are the perfect choice. These switches offer crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps while typing, creating an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. They have a higher-pitched sound profile, producing sharp and crisp clicks that some users prefer. The Box Jade switches also have an accented feel, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle.

Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Blue Sky switches and the Kailh Box Jade switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you value a linear typing experience with a smooth and gentle feel, go for the Blue Sky switches. If you prefer a clicky and tactile typing experience with a more pronounced feedback, the Box Jade switches are the way to go. Consider your sound and feel preferences when making your decision, and be sure to try out both switches if possible to determine which one suits you better.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Box Jade Clicky

$5.50 per 10

Learn more