Aflion Blue Sky vs. HMX FJ400
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX FJ400 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX FJ400 present compelling options, each with its own unique characteristics. The Aflion Blue Sky, a linear switch celebrated for its long pole stem, offers a crystal clear typing experience paired with a sparkling sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel. Its high-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished categories make it an appealing choice for those who prioritize tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction in their typing experience. In contrast, the HMX FJ400 serves as a middle ground within the HMX Film switch lineup, providing a well-balanced sound profile that caters to users seeking a versatile performance without the extremes of sound or feel. While the Blue Sky captures attention with its playful auditory cue and refined feel, the FJ400 offers a more subdued and adaptable option. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
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 HMX FJ400 feature different materials for their top housings, which result in distinct sound profiles. The Blue Sky utilizes polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This makes it particularly conducive to configurations that include RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the illumination effect. In contrast, the FJ400 employs POM (polyoxymethylene) for its top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. The differing characteristics of these materials illustrate how each switch can cater to varied auditory preferences, with the Blue Sky leaning towards clarity and brightness, while the FJ400 provides a warmer and richer auditory experience.
When examining the bottom housings, both the Blue Sky and FJ400 use nylon, a material renowned for creating a fuller and deeper sound profile. This commonality means that both switches will produce a rounder and more muted sound when the key is bottomed out. The nylon material is effective at absorbing sound, leading to a satisfying auditory experience regardless of the distinct top housing materials. Although the bottom housings are the same, the way each switch responds to a keystroke is influenced by their top housing choices. This results in each switch having its unique feel and sound when typing, as the bottom housing contributes to the overall depth while also being a factor in the bottom-out sound.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in the Aflion Blue Sky and HMX FJ400 creates unique sound profiles that cater to different player experiences. While the Blue Sky's polycarbonate top brings a crisp clarity, the FJ400's POM top offers a rich and deeper sound. However, both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, ensuring that the deeper, fuller sounds characteristic of nylon are felt in both models. This blend of different sound qualities from the top and bottom housings enriches the overall typing experience, providing a balance between clarity and depth that appeals to a variety of users.
Weight
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch present a comparable experience in terms of actuation force, both requiring 50 grams to trigger a keystroke. However, they differ slightly regarding their bottom out forces; the Blue Sky has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the FJ400's bottom out force is 58 grams. This means that while the initial keystroke feels the same when actuated, the Blue Sky requires a marginally heavier push to fully bottom out compared to the FJ400. Consequently, users who appreciate a heavier force might prefer the Blue Sky for its slightly more substantial feel at the bottom of the stroke. Conversely, the lighter bottom out force of the FJ400 could appeal to those looking for a quicker response during long typing sessions or gaming. In summary, while both switches share the same actuation force, the Blue Sky is the heavier option overall, providing a slightly firmer experience at the bottom, which may be favored by some users for its tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX FJ400 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys, Blue Sky offers a more pronounced depth, which some users may prefer for a more tactile experience. In contrast, the FJ400's shorter travel distance aligns with the growing trend toward quicker response times, making it potentially more suitable for gamers seeking faster actuation. While both switches can provide satisfactory performance, the Blue Sky will deliver a deeper feel compared to the FJ400, which might feel more abrupt to some users due to its reduced 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 HMX FJ400 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the FJ400 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
The sound profile of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is characterized by its high-pitched nature, producing a sharp and crisp sound that many typists appreciate. This quality makes it an excellent choice for users looking to avoid the richer and bassy tones that some mechanical switches offer. Additionally, the switch can also be considered neutral, making it versatile for a range of uses, from gaming to typographical tasks, suitable for both beginners and seasoned users alike. The HMX FJ400 linear switch, on the other hand, provides a balanced sound profile, although specific descriptors were not provided. This suggests that while it may not be as distinctly defined as the Blue Sky, it should also cater well to various environments without overwhelming sound characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Sky switch excels with its mild characteristics, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users. Its polished finish indicates a refined smoothness, enhancing the overall typing experience with reduced friction and seamless key travel. This makes each keystroke feel deliberate and satisfying. The FJ400's feel qualities were not detailed, leaving a gap in the comparison. However, the smoothness and overall typing experience may still be comparable if the switch is designed with similar attention to user comfort.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Blue Sky and HMX FJ400 linear switches have unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Blue Sky offers a distinct high-pitched sound and a polished, mild feel, making it an attractive option for those who enjoy a clear auditory feedback paired with a smooth typing experience. The FJ400, while less defined in its sound and feel, provides a balanced auditory profile that can work well in various environments. Ultimately, those looking for a well-rounded typing experience might find satisfaction in either switch, though the Blue Sky may have a slight edge for users who specifically seek a crisp sound and smooth actuation.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you value a clear, crisp typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile, the Blue Sky switch will likely be your best choice. Its long pole stem design ensures a smooth push feel combined with a vibrant acoustic character, making it ideal for those who appreciate a bit more auditory feedback and a polished overall experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced sound profile and a more versatile performance that caters well to both home and work environments, the HMX FJ400 could be the better fit. With its slightly lighter bottom out force and a focus on delivering a moderate typing experience, it strikes a great balance for users seeking a gentle yet effective switch. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize the vibrant and polished characteristics of the Blue Sky or the more neutral, middle-ground appeal of the FJ400 for daily usage.
Mentioned in this article
