Aflion Blue Sky vs. HMX Canglan V2
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX Canglan V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX Canglan V2 can significantly affect your typing experience, even though both are linear switches. The Aflion Blue Sky is renowned for its long pole stem, providing a crystal clear linear typing experience that is characterized by a high-pitched yet neutral sound profile, allowing for a playful auditory feedback without being overwhelming. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate a sparkling sound and an exquisitely smooth push feel, making it a notable option for those who enjoy a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Canglan V2 caters to keyboard enthusiasts seeking a thocky experience, with a deep and satisfying sound signature that emerges from its expertly crafted blend of materials and improved molding techniques. Its light push feel further enhances comfort, making it an excellent choice for long typing sessions. Both switches offer unique advantages: the Blue Sky for its vibrant sound and smoothness, and the Canglan V2 for its rich acoustics and comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
42g
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
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX Canglan V2, significant differences emerge in their top housing materials, which affect their sound profiles. The Blue Sky is crafted with a polycarbonate top housing, known for providing a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is both crisp and clear. This acoustical characteristic stems from the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for those who want to showcase RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant illumination to shine through. In contrast, the Canglan V2 employs a nylon top housing, which is more traditional in mechanical switch design. The nylon's softer composition absorbs sound waves, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile that emphasizes a duller and rounder auditory experience.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the Blue Sky and Canglan V2 share a nylon bottom housing. This commonality means that when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel during typing, both switches will exhibit characteristics that align closely with each other. The nylon's properties contribute to a sound profile that absorbs more noise compared to harder plastics, ultimately providing a more satisfying experience when typing. Because the bottom housing is crucial to how a switch feels when fully pressed down, this similarity results in a cohesive typing experience across the two models, as users will encounter that deeper sound and tactile feedback.
The respective roles of the different materials in the housing also highlight the unique experiences each switch offers. With the Blue Sky, the clear, resonant top housing adds brightness to its overall sound profile, while the nylon bottom ensures a comfortable and rich typing experience. On the other hand, the Canglan V2's nylon top results in a mellow sound profile, securing its place as a classic choice for those who appreciate deeper tones. Ultimately, while the top housing materials create contrasting auditory effects, both models capitalize on the strengths of their nylon bottoms to unify their performance, leading to similarly enjoyable typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Blue Sky features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch that appeals to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Canglan V2 has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it preferable for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. The differences in actuation and bottom out forces indicate that the Canglan V2 is the easier switch to activate, while the Blue Sky provides a firmer feel under the fingers, catering to different user preferences. Therefore, if someone desires a lighter typing experience, they should opt for the Canglan V2, while those who appreciate a heavier touch might favor the Blue Sky.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch, there is a clear distinction: the Blue Sky offers a travel distance of 4 mm, whereas the Canglan V2 has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference in travel distance can influence the typing experience significantly. Gamers, who often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, might lean towards the Canglan V2 for its more immediate feedback. Conversely, users who appreciate a more substantial feel to their keystrokes may find the Blue Sky's 4 mm travel distance more satisfying, as it offers a deeper, more deliberate press. Overall, if you favor responsiveness, the shorter Canglan V2 switch will serve you well, while those seeking a more pronounced tactile experience might opt for the Blue Sky switch.
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 Canglan V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Canglan V2 for $2.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blue Sky switch exhibits a high-pitched and neutral character, making it ideal for users who prefer a sharp and crisp auditory feedback without the deep bassy undertones. The high-pitched quality ensures that every keystroke resonates distinctly, while the neutral designation allows for a moderate sound profile. This versatility makes the Blue Sky suitable for both casual home use and professional environments where noise levels are a concern. In contrast, the HMX Canglan V2 switch boasts a notably thocky sound signature, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a deeper, more satisfying auditory experience. The combination of materials and molding techniques enhances this switch's acoustic properties, creating a robust sound that many find rewarding. However, the precise sound profile of the Canglan V2 hasn't been fully articulated, leaving room for personal exploration.
The tactile experience of the Blue Sky switch is marked by a mild and polished feel. The mild descriptor indicates a gentle typing experience that is accessible to both novice and experienced users alike, while the polished quality suggests smooth key travel due to refined materials or factory lubing, ensuring a delightful and frictionless interaction with the keyboard. On the other hand, the specific characteristics of the Canglan V2’s feel are not available, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. One can only speculate that the advance in molding and material selection may lead to a smooth and possibly unique typing experience, appealing to users who appreciate enhanced technical craftsmanship.
In conclusion, while both switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences, the Aflion Blue Sky's high-pitched and neutral sound, along with its mild and polished feel, caters well to a broad range of users. The HMX Canglan V2, with its appealing thocky sound signature, is sure to resonate with enthusiasts looking for depth in both sound and feel, but more information would be necessary to fully understand its tactile qualities. Each option promises an engaging typing journey, with the choice ultimately resting on personal preference and the desired keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you appreciate a medium bottom out force with a higher pitch sound profile and prioritize a crystal-clear typing experience, the Blue Sky switch would be an excellent choice. Its long pole stem provides for a polished feel and a mild typing experience, making it suitable for both home and workplace settings. Conversely, if you lean towards a lighter touch with a satisfyingly deep sound, the Canglan V2 is designed for you. With its 48-gram bottom out force and thocky linear feedback, it delivers a smooth experience that many enthusiasts crave. Ultimately, consider where and how you will be using your keyboard: the Blue Sky may suit a balanced, versatile environment, while the Canglan V2 is perfect for those who value a deeper, more pleasurable auditory experience in their typing.
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