Aflion Blue Sky vs. HC Studio Crabapple
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the HC Studio Crabapple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Blue Sky and the HC Studio Crabapple are two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique qualities for different typing preferences. The Blue Sky switch is praised for its crystal clear linear typing experience, featuring a long pole stem that provides a smooth push feel and a high-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Crabapple switch is crafted from POM, offering an effortlessly frictionless typing journey with a dry smoothness that is complemented by a subtle texture felt with each downstroke. While the Blue Sky switch is categorized as 'High-pitched' and 'Neutral', the Crabapple switch is labeled as 'Frictionless' and 'Textured'. Both switches provide a mild typing experience, but with distinct characteristics that cater to different 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
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blue Sky and the HC Studio Crabapple both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Blue Sky's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Crabapple's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound, creating a unique typing sensation. While both switches use different materials for their top housing, they each cater to different preferences in terms of sound output.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Blue Sky and the Crabapple offer distinct qualities. The Blue Sky's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Crabapple's POM bottom housing contributes to a pleasing and unique sound experience, adding to the overall ambiance of typing on the keyboard. Despite using different materials for the bottom housing, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience with their sound characteristics.
Overall, the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the HC Studio Crabapple play a significant role in shaping the sound profiles of these switches. The polycarbonate and POM top housings offer different tonal qualities, catering to varying preferences in sound output. Additionally, the nylon and POM bottom housings contribute to the overall typing experience, with each material providing a distinct sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper and resonant sound like the Blue Sky or a deeper and muted sound like the Crabapple, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Sky switch is heavier than the Crabapple switch. The Blue Sky has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Crabapple switch has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing it as a lighter switch. The difference in weight between the two switches can significantly impact typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Crabapple switch more suitable for extended typing sessions, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the heavier Blue Sky switch. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the typing feel and performance of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Blue Sky has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Crabapple, which means that it may provide a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Crabapple offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by those seeking a faster response time. Both switches are within the range of traditional travel distances, but the slight difference may make a noticeable impact depending on personal preference. Ultimately, while the travel distances of the two switches are not drastically different, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a longer or shorter travel distance for 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 HC Studio Crabapple has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crabapple for $4.70.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a high-pitched and sharp sound when pressed, providing a crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch produces a more subdued and dampened sound, creating a softer typing experience. If you prefer a more striking sound profile, the Blue Sky would be the preferable choice, while the Crabapple would be better suited for those who prefer a more subtle and understated sound.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction. This switch provides a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, crafted entirely from POM, offers a frictionless and textured feel with each keystroke, providing an effortlessly smooth typing journey. The switch exudes a dry smoothness complemented by a subtle texture felt with each downstroke, offering a unique tactile experience.
Overall, your choice between the Aflion Blue Sky and HC Studio Crabapple linear switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a high-pitched and sharp sound with a mild and polished typing feel, the Blue Sky switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued sound with a frictionless and textured feel, the Crabapple switch would be the better option. Both switches offer a linear typing experience, so regardless of your choice, you can expect a smooth and consistent actuation with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, consider the characteristics that align with your preferences. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a high-pitched sound profile with a polished typing experience, the Blue Sky may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and desire a subdued sound profile with a frictionless and textured typing experience, the Crabapple might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and bottom out force. Whichever switch you choose, both the Blue Sky and Crabapple offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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