Aflion Blue Sky vs. Gateron CJ
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron CJ, both of which are linear switches. The Blue Sky switch is renowned for its long pole stem, offering users a crystal clear linear typing experience. With a sparkling sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel, this switch is perfect for those who crave precision and refinement in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ showcases a unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch. Typing on these switches produces higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. This switch is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. Each switch offers its own distinct qualities and advantages. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron CJ differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Blue Sky features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is not overly sharp. This provides a satisfyingly clacky sound. While both materials contribute to the overall sound of the switch, the Blue Sky's polycarbonate creates a sharper tone, while the CJ's INK blend offers a more unique clack sound.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Blue Sky incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deep and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the CJ utilizes a POM bottom housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials contribute to the overall sound profile, the nylon bottom housing of the Blue Sky emphasizes a deeper and fuller tone, while the POM bottom housing of the CJ offers a relatively more subdued sound.
When it comes to how these materials affect the overall typing experience, it's important to note that the qualities of the bottom housing are felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. While the Blue Sky and CJ differ in their housing materials, they both aim to offer unique and pleasing typing experiences. Whether it's the sharp and clear sound of the Blue Sky's polycarbonate or the clacky sound of the CJ's INK blend, keyboard enthusiasts are provided with options that cater to their personal preferences. Similarly, the deeper and fuller sound produced by the Blue Sky's nylon bottom housing and the muted sound of the CJ's POM bottom housing offer further variety for a customized typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches require a force of 50 grams to trigger a keystroke and a force of 60 grams to fully bottom out. This means that both switches provide a medium level of actuation and bottoming out force.
In terms of weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions. The lighter weight of the switches allows for smoother and faster keystrokes, minimizing fatigue during prolonged use. On the other hand, there are users who prefer a heavier actuation and bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals may appreciate the additional resistance provided by heavier switches.
In the case of the Aflion Blue Sky and Gateron CJ switches, they both offer the same actuation and bottom out forces, and therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier keystroke feel is a matter of personal preference. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer a medium level of actuation and bottom out force, ensuring a balanced and satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed, which is the distance you feel when you press down on a key. In the case of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same travel distance of 4mm. Therefore, both switches offer a similar tactile experience in terms of 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 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 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is best described as having a high-pitched and neutral sound profile. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, making them ideal for those who prefer a more vibrant and clear sound. In contrast, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a unique chirpy sound, adding a slight squeak to the typing experience. This distinguishing acoustic signature sets the CJ apart from other switches. Additionally, the CJ also has a neutral sound profile with low-pitched switches offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Despite the differences, both the Blue Sky and CJ switches are suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists, and can be used in different settings, be it at home or work.
Moving on to the feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. With a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, these switches offer a safe and approachable typing experience to most users. The polished finish of the Blue Sky switch contributes to a sleek and refined feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ linear switch shares the same mild feel as the Blue Sky. This means that both switches provide a gentle typing experience, ensuring a comfortable and satisfying feel while typing.
Taking into account all the available information, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and Gateron CJ linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Sky switch stands out for its crystal clear sound and polished feel, while the CJ switch offers a unique and enjoyable chirpy sound with a mild feel. However, it is important to note that the actual sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, it is recommended to try out different switches or seek additional advice to find the perfect match for your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a crystal clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and exquisitely smooth push feel, the Aflion Blue Sky switch is a great choice. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for most intents and purposes. The Blue Sky switch is described as having a high-pitched sound profile, making it ideal if you prefer sharp and crisp sounds when pressed. In terms of feel, it is categorized as mild and polished, providing a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you want a unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, the Gateron CJ switch is worth considering. With the same medium bottom out force of 60 grams, it also offers a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for most users. The CJ switch is known for its higher-pitched clacks and impossibly smooth push feel, giving it a chirpy sound characteristic. In terms of feel, it is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience similar to the Blue Sky switch.
In closing, whether you prefer a crystal clear linear typing experience with a high-pitched sound and polished feel, or a unique and enjoyable presentation with higher-pitched clacks and a mild feel, both the Aflion Blue Sky and Gateron CJ switches have their own distinct qualities to meet your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal sound and feel preferences.
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