Aflion Blue Sky vs. Bsun Chiikawa - 45g
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the Aflion Blue Sky and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switches offer distinct advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The Aflion Blue Sky is celebrated for its long pole stem, providing a crystal clear linear typing experience that is both exquisitely smooth and polished. With a high-pitched, sparkling sound profile, this switch is designed for users who appreciate a refined auditory feedback with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g features a notably light actuation force, resulting in a very responsive feel that can enhance typing speed and efficiency. Its bright sound profile and crisp auditory feedback make it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lively typing experience. While both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, their unique characteristics serve different typing styles and preferences. 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
51g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3X
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
The Aflion Blue Sky and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a strikingly similar auditory experience. This choice of material leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, it enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing. Moreover, both switches benefit aesthetically from their translucent housings, making them ideal for RGB lighting setups. As a result, users can expect similar effects in terms of sound and illumination across both models, highlighting the effectiveness of polycarbonate in enhancing visibility and audio clarity.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the Aflion Blue Sky differs from the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g only in brand representation, as both switches employ nylon as their bottom housing material. Nylon is a tried-and-true choice in the realm of switch design, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs sound rather than allowing it to resonate sharply. Thus, both switches will deliver a consistent typing experience when considering the bottom housing. Typing on either switch, you can anticipate a similar duller and rounder sound, creating a satisfying feel during use.
When it comes to overall auditory performance, the combination of a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Aflion Blue Sky and Bsun Chiikawa - 45g leads to a balanced sound profile. The polycarbonate tops ensure clarity and resonance during release, while the nylon bottoms provide depth and fullness upon keystroke. Even though both switches represent different brands, the utilization of identical materials in both the top and bottom housings ensures a comparable experience for users. Therefore, those seeking consistency in typing feel and sound will find that both switches deliver similarly pleasing results.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Blue Sky switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option that may appeal to users looking for a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 45g features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lower bottom out force of 51 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. This means that the Chiikawa switch is easier to press, which can be more comfortable for extended typing sessions, while the Blue Sky provides a firmer feel for those who appreciate a stronger push. Consequently, if you're looking for a lighter option, the Chiikawa - 45g is the better choice, whereas the Blue Sky provides more resistance, appealing to those who prefer a heavier switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch, the Aflion Blue Sky stands out with a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option. In contrast, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference reflects the preferences of different users: while the longer travel distance of the Blue Sky offers a more traditional and possibly satisfying depth for those who enjoy a hearty typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Chiikawa may appeal to gamers seeking quicker responses. Opting for the Chiikawa would potentially enhance speed during fast-paced activities, whereas the Blue Sky may provide a more pronounced tactile feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize responsiveness over depth during your typing or gaming experience.
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 Bsun Chiikawa - 45g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Chiikawa - 45g for $3.29.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch, both exhibit qualities that cater to users who prefer a higher-pitched auditory experience. The Blue Sky is characterized by a bright, high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp upon actuation, making it an appealing choice for those who dislike richer, bass-heavy tones. The Chiikawa - 45g also boasts a bright sound profile, although specific details about its sound characteristics are less defined. However, it is known to produce a crisp, high-pitched noise when typing, which aligns well with the auditory preferences set by the Blue Sky. Ultimately, both switches will likely foster a similar bright acoustic feedback, largely dependent on additional factors such as board and keycap choices.
In terms of tactile feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is noted for its mild and polished characteristics. This means it offers a gentle typing experience that isn't overly aggressive, making it suitable for a variety of users, whether they're beginners or seasoned typists. The polished finish lends itself to reduced friction and smoother key travel, enhancing overall satisfaction during use. Unfortunately, the tactile qualities of the Chiikawa - 45g are not explicitly defined in the provided information, leaving a gap in comparison. Thus, while the Blue Sky provides a reliable feel marked by its mild nature and smoothness, the Chiikawa - 45g remains a mystery in this regard.
In conclusion, while both the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch share some similarities in sound, particularly their bright and high-pitched profiles, the tactile qualities of the Chiikawa are less understood. The Blue Sky’s gentle and highly polished feel offers a pleasant typing experience that is appealing to a broad audience. Without detailed information about the Chiikawa's feel, one might find that they are drawn to the Blue Sky for its refined characteristics while being curious about how the Chiikawa could compare in that area. Both switches cater to those who prioritize clarity in sound, yet they may offer differing tactile experiences, making personal testing essential for definitive preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the context in which you plan to use them. If you appreciate a medium actuation force, enjoy a clear and sparkling sound profile, and desire a smooth and polished typing experience, then the Blue Sky switch is likely the better fit for you. It's ideal for those who type for extended periods and might prefer a bit more feedback without being overwhelming. Conversely, if you lean towards a lighter touch and prioritize responsiveness, then the Chiikawa - 45g is the way to go. Its medium-light force and bright sound profile make it especially suitable for fast-paced typing or gaming scenarios where quick actuation is key. Additionally, the Chiikawa's crisp high-pitched sound may appeal to those looking for an engaging auditory experience. Ultimately, considering factors such as your typing style, sound preference, and the setting in which you'll primarily be using your keyboard will help you make the right choice between these two excellent switches.