Aflion Blue Sky vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Ink Box Black. The Blue Sky switch is well-known for its long pole stem, which provides a crystal clear linear typing experience. This switch offers a sparkling sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black is renowned for its incredibly smooth and creamy typing experience. The sound signature of this switch reminds us of a spray paint can being shaken. Both switches offer unique qualities that make them appealing to different individuals. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches differ in composition and resulting sound profiles. The Blue Sky features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, making it ideal for those who desire a distinct auditory experience. In contrast, the Ink Box Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. While not overly sharp, this clacky sound gives a satisfying and thin auditory response. Despite their differences, both switches can provide similar results in terms of sound when using RGB lighting due to their translucent properties.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Blue Sky employs a nylon material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a rounder and duller auditory experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for the bottom housing, which contributes to a pointed and high-pitched sound. This blend complements the top housing, offering a satisfying and clacky auditory response. Although their approaches to sound may differ, both switches result in an enjoyable typing experience, each with its unique qualities.
In terms of usage, the qualities of the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switches. When pressing down on the Aflion Blue Sky, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing come into play, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the contrary, the Gateron Ink Box Black's sound is influenced more by the proprietary INK blend in the bottom housing. Meanwhile, the top housing of both switches plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. These distinctions contribute to the overall sound profiles and tactile experiences delivered by each switch, allowing users to select the one that best fits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Blue Sky has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the Ink Box Black requires a slightly heavier 60 grams to trigger a keystroke. This means that the Blue Sky switch will offer a slightly lighter typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch, especially for extended typing or gaming sessions. In terms of bottom out force, the Blue Sky requires 60 grams, whereas the Ink Box Black has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. Consequently, the Ink Box Black switch offers a more substantial typing experience and may be preferable for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches fall under the medium category when it comes to actuation force, but the Ink Box Black leans towards the medium-heavy side with its higher forces. Overall, those seeking a lighter typing experience may opt for the Blue Sky switch, while those who prefer a heavier and more substantial feel may find the Ink Box Black to be a suitable choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, the Blue Sky has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Ink Box Black has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Blue Sky's 4.0 mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a deeper sensation when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black's 3.6 mm travel distance is shallower, providing a more responsive feel. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance for faster response times. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference. If you value quick responsiveness, the Ink Box Black with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a more substantial and deeper keypress, the Blue Sky with its longer travel distance would be a better option.
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 Gateron Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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 Blue Sky linear switch offers a high-pitched sound profile. This means that the sound produced when pressing these switches is sharp and crisp, making them suitable for those who prefer a brighter and more distinct sound. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black linear switch is described as clacky, which means it produces a sharp and snappy sound similar to shaking a spray paint can. Both switches fall under the high-pitched category, ensuring that you will get a similar result in terms of sound. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Blue Sky linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience. This means that it has a safe and middle-ground feel that will be approachable to most users. Additionally, the Blue Sky switch is polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This smoothness is achieved through either the materials used or factory lubing, which reduces friction and allows for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black linear switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience. These switches minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel. Like the sound, both switches are polished, ensuring a similar feel in terms of smoothness.
In conclusion, the Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Sky provides a high-pitched and neutral sound profile, while the Ink Box Black produces a clacky and high-pitched sound. When it comes to feel, the Blue Sky offers a mild and polished typing experience, while the Ink Box Black provides a silky and polished feel. While they differ in some aspects, both switches provide a smooth typing experience due to their polished characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Aflion Blue Sky would be the ideal choice. With its long pole stem, it offers a crystal clear and smooth typing experience, accompanied by a sparkling sound profile. The Blue Sky is a neutral switch, making it suitable for various purposes and preferences.
On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black would be more suitable with its medium-heavy bottom out force. These switches are renowned for their smooth and creamy feel, resembling the sound of a spray paint can being shaken. The Ink Box Black is described as both clacky and high-pitched, offering a crisp and bright sound when pressed.
In terms of feel, the Blue Sky provides a mild and polished experience, offering a gentle typing feel that will suit most users. Its smooth and refined finish results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Ink Box Black also offers a polished typing experience, with a silky feel that enhances overall smoothness and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky and Gateron Ink Box Black comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize a slightly heavier feel and a creamy typing experience, the Ink Box Black is the way to go. However, if you prefer a lighter feel with a crystal clear sound profile, the Blue Sky is the better option. Consider your preferences and requirements before making your final decision.
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