Aflion Blue Sky vs. Gateron Ink Black V2

Overview

If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may be overwhelmed with the numerous options available. Two switches worth considering are the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Ink Black V2, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The Blue Sky switch is renowned for its long pole stem, providing a crystal clear linear typing experience. It offers a sparkling sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch that has been a community favorite for quite some time. It boasts a smooth downstroke and a rich clack. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and Gateron Ink Black V2 differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Blue Sky utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clearer and more resonant sound. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound without being overly sharp. This thinner and higher-pitched sound is often described as clacky. Therefore, while both switches have different top housing materials, they do share a common attribute of creating a distinct sound profile.

When it comes to the bottom housing, the Blue Sky incorporates a nylon material, known for its classic switch housing characteristics. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's relatively softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing. This provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, similar to its top housing. The resulting sound profile is satisfyingly thin and higher-pitched, often described as clacky. Although the bottom housing materials differ between the two switches, they both contribute to creating a unique sound experience.

When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more apparent, as they have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. In this regard, the nylon bottom housing of the Blue Sky would provide a deeper and fuller typing experience. On the other hand, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 would contribute to the switch's clacky and higher-pitched sound. Conversely, the top housing of a switch influences the sound when releasing a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the Blue Sky and the INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 both contribute to a distinct sound profile upon key release.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, there are noticeable differences between the two. The Blue Sky requires a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the Ink Black V2 has a slightly higher actuation force of 60 grams. This means that the Blue Sky switch will register keystrokes with a lighter touch, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter and smoother typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 switch has a heavier actuation force, providing a stronger push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Blue Sky has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Ink Black V2 has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that when fully pressing down on the keys, the Ink Black V2 switch will require a bit more force compared to the Blue Sky switch. This heavier bottom out force can be beneficial for individuals who prefer a more tactile and satisfying typing experience, as it provides a pronounced feedback when keys are fully pressed.

Overall, both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. However, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch leans towards the lighter side, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch and effortless typing, especially for longer periods of time. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a slightly heavier force, catering to those who desire a more substantial and robust typing experience.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. When pressing down on a key, users will experience the same distance of travel for both switches, resulting in similar results. Therefore, there is no significant difference in the travel distance between the two switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is best described as having a high-pitched and neutral sound profile. High-pitched switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, making them ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. The neutral sound profile of the Blue Sky switch means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, as well as for use at home or work. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy sound profile. Low-pitched switches have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses. The chirpy characteristic of the Ink Black V2 switch adds a unique acoustic signature with a slight squeak. Overall, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps, so keep that in mind when making a selection.

In terms of feel, both the Aflion Blue Sky and Gateron Ink Black V2 switches have mild and polished qualities. A mild switch offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable to most users. The sound and feel of both switches fall into a safe, middle-ground zone, ensuring a comfortable and satisfying typing experience. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This smoothness can be attributed to the materials used and/or factory lubing, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel.

Based on the available information, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is best known for its crystal clear linear typing experience, sparkling sound profile, and exquisitely smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is highly regarded as a classic linear switch, offering a smooth downstroke and rich clack. While the Blue Sky switch has a higher-pitched and neutral sound profile, the Ink Black V2 switch has a low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy sound profile. Both switches provide a mild and polished typing experience, ensuring comfortable and smooth key presses. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, along with other factors such as board and keycap choices. However, you can expect similar results in terms of overall experience and quality from both switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a crystal clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and exquisitely smooth push feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams and high-pitched, neutral sound profile, these switches are suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use them at home or work. Additionally, the Blue Sky provides a mild and polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, if you prefer a classic linear switch with a smooth downstroke and a rich clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch would be a great option. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams and a low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy sound profile, these switches offer a unique acoustic signature. Similar to the Blue Sky, the Ink Black V2 provides a mild and polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Blue Sky and Gateron Ink Black V2 switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel. Consider whether you prefer a high-pitched, neutral sound or a low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy sound, as well as whether you prioritize a slightly lighter or heavier typing force. Both switches offer a mild and polished typing experience, making them suitable for most users. In the end, selecting the switch that aligns with your preferences will ensure an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn more