Aflion Blue Sky vs. Kailh Box White V2

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference, especially when comparing options like the Aflion Blue Sky and the Kailh Box White V2. The Blue Sky switch is celebrated for its long pole stem, which provides a silky-smooth linear typing experience characterized by a sparkling sound profile and a polished feel. This makes it an excellent choice for those who favor a subtle, noiseless typing environment while enjoying seamless keystrokes. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White V2 switches are distinguished by their clicky design, offering a satisfying tactile feedback and an audible click that appeals to typists who enjoy a more engaging and responsive typing experience. While the Blue Sky focuses on a smooth and refined touch, the Box White V2 excites with its pronounced sound and feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs.

By the numbers

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Kailh Box White V2 switches share a significant similarity with their top housings both made of polycarbonate. This commonality leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, creates a more resonant sound which is further enhanced by its translucency, making it an excellent choice for those who use RGB lighting. The aesthetic appeal is also noteworthy; both switches’ clear housings not only deliver an appealing visual with RGB options but also ensure that your auditory experience is enriched by the clarity of the sounds produced during typing.

In contrast, the bottom housings of both the Aflion Blue Sky and the Kailh Box White V2 are constructed from nylon, which imparts a distinctly deeper and fuller sound profile to both switches. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than its harder counterparts, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. This differentiation in materials between the top and bottom housing allows users to benefit from a balanced sound profile; the top housing provides a crisp exit sound while the bottom housing delivers a deeper bottom-out sound. As a result, the combination of these materials enhances the overall typing experience in distinct yet complementary ways.

Thus, while the Aflion Blue Sky and Kailh Box White V2 switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, the overall sound experience is intricately linked. The polycarbonate top housing ensures brightness and clarity in the sound when releasing the keys, while the nylon bottom housing guarantees a warm, rounded sound upon key bottoming out. Consequently, these switches deliver an enriched auditory experience that combines the strengths of both housing materials, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy a comprehensive sound profile in their typing activities.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch with the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch, the actuation and bottom out forces reveal distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Blue Sky features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Box White V2 is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This lighter feel may be more suitable for users who prioritize extended typing comfort or long gaming sessions. The Blue Sky's heavier actuation and bottom out forces create a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a firmer tactile feedback. Consequently, users looking for a lighter option should gravitate towards the Kailh Box White V2, while those seeking a heavier switch experience will likely favor the Aflion Blue Sky.

Travel distance

The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance suggests that users of the Blue Sky switch will experience a deeper key press, which may provide a more robust tactile feel for those who favor traditional depth in their typing experience. On the other hand, gamers or those seeking quicker response times might prefer the Kailh Box White V2 due to its shorter travel distance, which could facilitate faster key presses. Thus, while both switches cater to different preferences—depth versus responsiveness—the Aflion Blue Sky emerges as the option with the longer travel distance, whereas the Kailh Box White V2 offers a more compact key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a high-pitched and neutral sound profile. The high-pitched quality results in a sharp and crisp auditory feedback when the keys are pressed, making it an excellent choice for those who favor a cleaner sound without the richness often associated with bass-heavy switches. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch is known for its prominent audible click, which provides a distinct and satisfying auditory cue with each keystroke. While the Blue Sky provides a more subtle sound experience, the Box White V2 is decidedly more assertive, catering to users who enjoy the heightened feedback of a clicky switch. However, it's important to note that the overall sound can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Blue Sky switch is characterized by its mild and polished qualities. The mild nature of the switch makes it approachable and comfortable for users, providing a gentle typing experience that appeals to both beginners and seasoned typists. The polished feel indicates that the switch is designed for smooth key travel, reducing friction thanks to either the materials used or factory lubrication. In contrast, the Kailh Box White V2 switch's tactile response includes a pronounced click, offering more pronounced feedback during the actuation. Unfortunately, the specifics of the tactile feel for the Box White V2 aren't provided, leaving a gap in the comparison. However, it’s clear that both switches prioritize user comfort in their respective ways.

Ultimately, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Blue Sky is an excellent choice for those seeking a smooth, high-pitched typing experience with mild auditory feedback, making it versatile for various settings. In contrast, the Box White V2 appeals to users who enjoy the tactile sensation of a pronounced click and an enhanced auditory cue during typing. Depending on your personal typing style and sound preferences, both switches can deliver a satisfying experience tailored to your needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch largely depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a smooth and quiet typing experience with a medium bottom-out force, the Blue Sky would be an excellent option. Its polished feel and high-pitched sound profile make it ideal for both work and leisure, particularly in environments where noise level is a consideration. On the other hand, if you prefer tactile feedback combined with an audible click that boosts your typing satisfaction, the Kailh Box White V2 would serve you well. Its lighter actuation force and distinct click sound can enhance your typing experience, making it particularly suitable for gaming or typing tasks where you enjoy pronounced feedback. Ultimately, consider your personal typing style and the atmosphere where you'll be using your keyboard to make the best choice for your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

Learn more