Aflion Blue Sky vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Blue Sky and HMX Hibiscus present two distinct yet appealing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience. The Blue Sky switch is celebrated for its long pole stem that provides a crystal clear, polished feel, along with a unique sparkling sound profile that enhances every keystroke with a touch of elegance. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus elevates the typing experience with its ultra-light actuation force, making it one of the smoothest switches available, while also delivering a satisfyingly clacky and crispy sound signature that appeals to those who enjoy auditory feedback. Both switches offer their own unique take on a linear typing experience: the Blue Sky focuses on smoothness and sound clarity, while the Hibiscus prioritizes exceptional lightness and a more pronounced acoustic response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
T3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX Hibiscus, distinct differences can be observed, particularly in their top housings. The Aflion Blue Sky features a polycarbonate top housing, which is noted for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This quality is beneficial for enthusiasts who prefer precise auditory feedback while typing. Conversely, the HMX Hibiscus incorporates a nylon top housing known for its softer properties, which absorb sound rather than reflect it, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This fundamental difference in the top housing materials leads to contrasting acoustic experiences; while the Blue Sky may deliver an articulate sound with enhanced brightness, the Hibiscus provides a more muted, rounder tone.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Aflion Blue Sky and HMX Hibiscus utilize nylon, creating a similarity in how the key presses are felt. Given that nylon is inherently a softer material, it dictates the sound and feel when the switch is bottomed out. This shared characteristic means that users of both switches will experience a deep and rich sound during key actuation, regardless of the differences experienced in the tops. Thus, the switches deliver a consistent tactile sensation, which allows for compatibility in typing experience across both models, as they effectively neutralize any tonal variance that might arise from the distinct top housing materials.
Ultimately, the combination of contrasting top housings and similar bottom housings in the Aflion Blue Sky and HMX Hibiscus results in unique outcomes. The polycarbonate top of the Blue Sky accentuates the auditory clarity possible with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing glow with a spirited sound profile. Meanwhile, the Hibiscus, with its nylon construction, results in a more muted output, ideal for those who prefer less pronounced keystrokes. The nuanced experience showcases how housing material selection can greatly influence not just sound but also the overall feel of mechanical switches, demonstrating how preferences can vary widely based on individual use cases and desired auditory feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, notable differences exist in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Blue Sky features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch that offers a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Hibiscus operates with a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, positioning it as a lightweight option ideal for those who type for extended periods or prefer less resistance in their keystrokes. Consequently, the Hibiscus is the lighter switch, while the Blue Sky is heavier. This discrepancy in forces can significantly influence the typing experience, making the Hibiscus a preferable choice for long gaming sessions or work environments, while the Blue Sky may appeal to users seeking a firmer push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, we find that the Blue Sky features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Hibiscus measures 3.5 mm. This makes the Aflion Blue Sky the longer travel switch, providing a more substantial depth under the fingers, which some users may prefer for a robust typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus, with its shorter 3.5 mm travel distance, caters to those who favor quick responsiveness—an appealing trait for gamers and fast typists alike. Thus, the choice between these two switches ultimately hinges on personal preference: if you appreciate a fuller keystroke, the Blue Sky is the better option; however, if you lean towards a quicker response with less travel, the Hibiscus is the way to go.
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 Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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 considering the sound profile, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch impresses with a high-pitched, crisp tone that defines its character. This attribute makes it particularly appealing for those who prefer a sharper auditory experience over the deeper, more resonant sound profiles of other switches. Additionally, it holds a neutral quality, balancing the actuation force and overall sound level, making it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in the office. In contrast, the sound qualities of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch remain largely unspecified, leaving a potential gap in understanding how it compares in this dimension. Given the Blue Sky's well-defined audio characteristics, one could expect a distinctly different auditory experience with the Hibiscus unless similar sound traits are later revealed.
Turning to the feel of these switches, the Blue Sky presents a mild and polished typing experience. The mildness allows for a comfortable touch, making it user-friendly for both beginners and experienced typists alike. The polished finish further enhances this smooth feel, ensuring a frictionless key travel that makes typing less taxing on the fingers. The HMX Hibiscus switch, while marketed as offering unparalleled smoothness, does not provide specific descriptors for its tactile experience. Therefore, it's difficult to determine how its feel may stack up against the well-rounded and refined touch of the Blue Sky linear switch.
In summary, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch showcases a high-pitched, crisp sound and a mild, polished feel, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize audio clarity and typing comfort. The HMX Hibiscus linear switch, while claimed to be exceptionally smooth, lacks specific sound and feel qualities for a direct comparison. Thus, if you seek a reliable typing experience, the Blue Sky is a safe choice, while the Hibiscus remains a wildcard until more information is available on its sound and feel attributes.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing habits. If you value a more balanced and approachable typing experience, the Blue Sky might be your ideal choice. With its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, it offers a smooth and polished feel while delivering a high-pitched, crisp sound profile that works well in both home and office environments. This makes it suitable for users who prefer moderate resistance and a sound that won't overwhelm their surroundings. On the other hand, if you desire a lighter touch with a unique auditory experience, the HMX Hibiscus could be the way to go. With its ultra-light actuation force of just 48 grams, this switch facilitates effortless key presses and boasts a satisfyingly clacky, poppy sound signature that can enhance your typing enjoyment. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize a more controlled and balanced feel or a lively, responsive action with an inviting sound.
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