Aflion Blue Sky vs. Bsun Cliff
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Bsun Cliff switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Blue Sky and the Bsun Cliff offer distinct experiences suited to different typing preferences. The Blue Sky, celebrated for its long pole stem, delivers an exceptionally smooth linear typing experience that is both crystal clear and polished. The high-pitched sound profile adds a unique auditory element, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize swift key presses and a muted tactile feedback. In contrast, the Bsun Cliff features a medium tactility that provides satisfying feedback with each keystroke, complemented by a crisp sound signature that appeals to users who enjoy a more interactive typing experience. While the Blue Sky might be perfect for gamers or those who favor speed and fluidity, the Cliff caters to those who appreciate nuanced feedback during typing. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Blue Sky and Bsun Cliff share a notable similarity in their top housing material, both utilizing polycarbonate. This choice fosters a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that’s crisp and clear, primarily due to polycarbonate's stiffer structure. The translucency of polycarbonate not only enhances the aesthetic appeal when RGB lighting is employed but also contributes to the overall sound resonance. Consequently, switching between the two models would yield a relatively consistent auditory experience when it comes to the sound generated from key releases.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the two models differs significantly as both incorporate nylon, albeit with varying impacts on their sound profiles. The nylon used in the Blue Sky’s bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs sound rather than amplifies it. This creates a more rounded auditory experience during keystrokes. Similarly, the Bsun Cliff's bottom housing of nylon provides the same benefits, leading to a duller and fuller sound when typing. Therefore, while both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings to achieve an enriched sound profile, the overall tactile response and auditory experience might be subtly influenced by other design factors.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate in the top housing for both models creates a uniform auditory experience focused on key releases, while the nylon in the bottom housing aids in creating a richer sound profile during key presses. When evaluating these two switches, it's essential to recognize that the interaction between the materials is what shapes the complete typing experience. The shared characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon highlight how material choices in keyboard design can yield similar results in sound clarity and overall responsiveness, despite slight variations in bottom housing materials potentially leading to a different feel during typing. This synthesis of materials defines their sound signatures while maintaining their unique characteristics based on construction.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch to the Bsun Cliff tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different typing preferences. The Blue Sky features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classifying it as a medium option that provides a more substantial feel during use. In contrast, the Cliff operates with a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a preferable choice for users who favor a softer touch, facilitating longer periods of typing or gaming. This difference in weight means that the Cliff is the lighter option, while the Blue Sky is the heavier switch. As a result, users looking for a balance of comfortable typing pressure and durability may lean towards the Blue Sky, whereas those who prioritize ease of use and reduced fatigue might be more inclined to select the Cliff.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Bsun Cliff tactile switch, we see a notable difference: the Blue Sky has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Cliff offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Aflion Blue Sky provides a deeper experience that some users may prefer for its feedback and satisfying feel, particularly suitable for those who appreciate a more pronounced keypress. On the other hand, the Bsun Cliff's shorter travel distance can cater to gamers or users looking for quicker response times, making it a more suitable choice for fast-paced scenarios. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference, with those who want a more substantial key travel opting for the Blue Sky, while those prioritizing responsiveness may lean toward the Cliff.
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 Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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 Cliff tactile switch, the Blue Sky is characterized by a high-pitched sound signature that delivers a sharp, crisp note during keystrokes. This makes the switch particularly appealing to those who prefer a clearer acoustic experience and may not enjoy the deeper, bass-heavy tones of certain other switches. Additionally, there is a neutral sound quality associated with the Blue Sky, providing a moderate actuation force and sound level that suits both beginners and seasoned users alike. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the Cliff tactile switches remain unspecified, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison regarding their acoustic properties.
In terms of tactile feel, the Blue Sky linear switch is described as delivering a mild and polished experience. The mildness of these switches lends itself to a gentle typing experience, making them approachable for most users. Coupled with the polished nature of the switch, which indicates a smooth and refined key travel due to quality materials or factory lubing, users can expect a seamless interaction with the keyboard. Unfortunately, the tactile feel of the Cliff switch is not detailed, leaving an unknown aspect that could influence its comparison with the feel of the Blue Sky.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch clearly stands out with its high-pitched sound and mild yet polished feel, the lack of specific details on the Bsun Cliff tactile switch’s sound and feel introduces an element of uncertainty. For users seeking clarity and smoothness in their typing experience, the Blue Sky provides definitive qualities to consider. However, without further information on the Cliff switches, potential buyers may find it difficult to fully assess their options and might need to rely on personal testing to discover which switch ultimately meets their preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Bsun Cliff tactile switch should ultimately depend on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a smooth and linear typing experience, the Blue Sky is an excellent choice, especially for tasks that require rapid keystrokes or extended typing sessions. Its medium actuation force of 60 grams offers a balanced resistance, making it suitable for those who prefer a more consistent feel without tactile bumps. Additionally, the high-pitched sound profile complements a more focused or professional environment, minimizing distractions. On the other hand, if you lean toward a more tactile feedback during your typing, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch would be your best bet. With a lighter 45-gram actuation force and medium tactility, it can enhance your typing rhythm while providing satisfying feedback with each keystroke. This makes it ideal for leisurely typing or gaming, where you might appreciate the more pronounced feedback without the heaviness. In essence, selecting between these switches comes down to whether you value a smooth, uninterrupted experience with the Blue Sky or the tactile engagement that the Cliff provides.
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