Aflion Blue Sky vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX EMO mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are notable differences to consider. The Blue Sky switch is renowned for its long pole stem, providing a crystal clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel. On the other hand, the HMX EMO switch offers a lively and clacky feel, with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force and exceptional factory-lubing for a bouncy and satisfying typing experience. While the Blue Sky switch is categorized as high-pitched, neutral, mild, polished, the EMO switch's characteristics are not specified. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
46g
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
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX EMO use polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is clear and resonant. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it the ideal material for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as the light can shine through the housing for a visually appealing effect. This shared feature ensures that both switches will have a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal when it comes to the top housing.
On the other hand, the Blue Sky and EMO differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Blue Sky utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Conversely, the EMO also uses nylon for its bottom housing, showcasing a similar sound profile with a duller and rounder sound compared to the top housing. This means that both switches will offer a unique typing experience due to the differences in their bottom housing material.
While the top housing of a switch typically has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in the Blue Sky and EMO means that users will experience a combination of the qualities of polycarbonate and nylon in their typing experience. This distinction highlights the importance of housing materials in influencing the overall sound and feel of mechanical switches.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky and HMX EMO linear switches reveals some key differences. The Blue Sky has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the EMO's 40 grams, making the Blue Sky a slightly heavier option. In terms of bottom out force, the Blue Sky requires 60 grams compared to the EMO's 46 grams, making the Blue Sky again the heavier choice. The Blue Sky offers a more substantial typing experience with its medium actuation and bottom out forces, while the EMO provides a lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with some users favoring the lighter touch of the EMO for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier feel of the Blue Sky for a more pronounced keystroke response.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX EMO linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Blue Sky with its 4 mm travel distance falls into the more traditional length category, providing a slightly deeper press compared to the EMO. Gamers may lean towards the EMO with its shorter travel distance for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Blue Sky. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their travel distance, allowing users to choose based on their preference for depth and responsiveness.
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 EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
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 offers a high-pitched and sharp sound when pressed, making it ideal for those who prefer a more crisp and clear typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch's sound profile is not specified, so it may provide a different auditory experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Blue Sky linear switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a more subtle tactile feedback. Additionally, its polished finish ensures a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. Conversely, the HMX EMO linear switch is described as lively and clacky with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, offering a bouncy and satisfying typing feel. While the specific details of the feel are not provided for the EMO switch, it may offer a unique tactile experience compared to the Blue Sky switch.
Overall, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is best known for its crystal clear linear typing experience with a high-pitched sound and mild feel, making it a great choice for those who prefer a refined and gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch stands out for its lively and clacky feel with a factory-lubed smoothness and effortless typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your overall mechanical keyboard typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a high-pitched, crisp sound profile with a smooth typing experience, the Blue Sky switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a lively, clacky feel with an effortless typing experience, the EMO switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and how you prioritize factors like force, sound, and feel.
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