Aflion Blue Sky vs. Huano Grape Orange

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and the Huano Grape Orange stand out as compelling options for a range of typing preferences. The Aflion Blue Sky is celebrated for its long pole stem, delivering a crystal clear linear typing experience that features a sparkling sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a higher-pitched sound coupled with a refined touch, making it suitable for everything from gaming to typing-intensive work. On the other hand, the Huano Grape Orange offers an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience, with an ultra-low actuation force of just 40g. This makes it an excellent choice for extended typing sessions, as users can enjoy comfortable feedback without the strain of heavier switches. While both options provide a linear feel and smooth operation, they cater to different needs and 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

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

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Housing materials

The Aflion Blue Sky and the Huano Grape Orange share a key similarity in their top housing material, which is made of polycarbonate. This material is known for its properties that enhance sound quality, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate not only contributes to the auditory experience but also offers aesthetic advantages, especially for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Both the Blue Sky and Grape Orange benefit from this translucent quality, ensuring that the lighting effects can shine through clearly, thus presenting a visually appealing setup for users who prioritize aesthetics alongside performance.

In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches utilize nylon, which brings an entirely different auditory experience to the table. Nylon is lauded for its sound absorption qualities, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This difference in material choice between the top and bottom housings results in a unique combination of sound attributes—a clear and resonant sound from the polycarbonate top housing, balanced by a duller and rounder tone from the nylon bottom housing. The interaction between these two materials significantly influences the overall tactile and auditory experience when using either switch, providing users with a well-rounded sound profile during operation.

Ultimately, while the Aflion Blue Sky and the Huano Grape Orange utilize the same materials for their respective top and bottom housings, the configuration of these components leads to a distinct sound experience. The polycarbonate's clarity complements the nylon's warmth, ensuring that each switch delivers an engaging blend of qualities. By leveraging the strengths of both materials, users can enjoy a consistent yet dynamic performance, whereby the characteristics of each housing contribute positively during the typing experience. With such similarities in material choices, enthusiasts can expect to achieve comparable sound characteristics, despite any nuances introduced by slight design variations.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different typing preferences. The Blue Sky switch features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, positioning it as a medium-weight option, while the Grape Orange switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Grape Orange significantly lighter than the Blue Sky, providing a more effortless typing experience ideal for long sessions, whether at work or during gaming. Users who prefer a stronger push feel might lean toward the Aflion Blue Sky, as its heavier actuation and bottom out forces offer a more substantial typing experience. Thus, while both switches function effectively, the Blue Sky is suited for those who enjoy a bit more resistance, whereas the Grape Orange caters to those who favor a lighter touch.

Travel distance

The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Huano Grape Orange linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference means that the Blue Sky switch provides a more pronounced key press, offering a hearty depth that some users might find more satisfying and easier to gauge. In contrast, the Grape Orange, with its shorter travel distance, caters to those who prefer a quicker response time, making it a more appealing option for gamers seeking fast actuation. Ultimately, if you prioritize a more responsive feel, the Grape Orange would suit your needs better, while the Blue Sky would be ideal for those who appreciate a deeper keystroke. In this comparison, the Blue Sky is the longer travel option, confirming its traditional depth, while the Grape Orange represents the trend toward shorter travel distances that many modern users favor.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, the distinction is quite clear. The Blue Sky switch is known for its high-pitched, crisp sound, which can be very appealing for those who prefer a cleaner audio feedback while typing. This switch produces a bright and sparkling auditory experience, making it an excellent choice for environments where you want your keystrokes to be heard without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Grape Orange switch are undefined in this context, suggesting a lack of standout auditory qualities or specific descriptions. As sound can be influenced by various factors, including keyboard build and keycap material, both switches may yield different results when used on different boards, but the Blue Sky’s clear sound stands out as a defining feature.

When it comes to the feel, the Aflion Blue Sky switch excels with its mild yet polished attributes. It offers a gentle typing experience that remains approachable for both newcomers and seasoned typists alike. The smooth, refined action comes from its polished design, which minimizes friction and enhances key travel, leading to an overall satisfying tactile feedback. In contrast, the feel of the Grape Orange switch is currently not detailed, leaving it uncertain whether it matches the smoothness and ease of the Blue Sky. However, given that the Grape Orange is noted for its lightweight actuation force, it may also offer a comfortable experience for extended typing sessions, albeit without the same emphasis on smoothness.

In summary, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch clearly stands out with its bright sound profile and polished feel, making it a strong candidate for typing enthusiasts who seek joy in the auditory and tactile experience of their keyboard. The Huano Grape Orange linear switch, while highlighted for its light actuation force that potentially offers comfortable typing, lacks detailed sound and feel descriptions at this time. Individuals considering these switches may find the Blue Sky more appealing for an immersive typing experience, yet the Grape Orange could still serve well for long periods of use. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard.

Conclusion

In summary, when choosing between the Aflion Blue Sky and the Huano Grape Orange linear switches, your needs and preferences will dictate the best option for you. If you favor a more pronounced tactile and auditory experience, the Blue Sky switches are a strong contender thanks to their medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, polished feel, and high-pitched sound profile, making them ideal for a satisfying typing experience without sacrificing performance. These switches are particularly suited for users who appreciate a crisp sound and smooth actuation, and they can be great for both casual typing and gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prioritize comfort during long typing sessions, the Grape Orange switches, with their lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, are designed for an effortless experience. The ultra-light actuation ensures that your fingers won’t tire easily, making them perfect for those who spend extended hours at their keyboards. Ultimately, your choice comes down to whether you seek a more dynamic experience with the Blue Sky or a relaxed, fatigue-free typing environment with the Grape Orange.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more