Aflion Blue Sky vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that come to mind are the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Ink Box Pink. The Blue Sky is a linear switch known for its long pole stem, delivering a crystal clear linear typing experience. This switch selection offers a sparkling sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel, making it a favorite among users who prefer a high-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished switch. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink is a linear switch with a unique translucent design. These switches are smooth and provide a lighter typing feel compared to other mechanical switches, along with a clacky, high-pitched, silky, and polished sound profile. Both switches have their own set of qualities that may appeal to different users. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
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 Pink switches have notable differences. The Blue Sky features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Ink Box Pink has Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing. The polycarbonate housing of the Blue Sky provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiff nature. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, which makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Pink offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as being clacky. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, the polycarbonate gives a sharper tone compared to the INK blend's more pointed sound.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Blue Sky incorporates a nylon material, while the Ink Box Pink utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This can be attributed to nylon being a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile, similar to its top housing. Both bottom housings offer distinct sound experiences, with nylon providing a deeper sound and the INK blend bottom housing delivering a thinner and higher-pitched sound commonly described as clacky.
When comparing the impact of top and bottom housings on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it is important to note that they play different roles. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. As such, the nylon bottom housing of the Blue Sky would contribute to a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound. Conversely, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink would result in a relatively high-pitched and clacky bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the top housing primarily affects the sound when the key is released. Therefore, the polycarbonate top housing of the Blue Sky and the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Pink will mainly impact the sound that is produced when the key is let go.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, it is evident that they have identical weights in both aspects. Both switches require an actuation force of 50 grams, indicating that the same amount of pressure is required to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating that they have the same resistance when pressed all the way down.
These weights make these switches fall into the medium category, providing a balance between lightness and a stronger push feel. This makes them suitable options for individuals seeking a comfortable typing experience for extended periods of time. Whether it be for work or long gaming sessions, the medium weight of these switches allows users to type without experiencing excessive fatigue.
Both the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switches ensure a consistent and reliable typing experience. With their matching actuation and bottom out forces, users can expect similar results and a familiar feel when using either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience, as both switches offer medium-weight options for those seeking a comfortable yet substantial feel while typing.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches offer a satisfying keystroke experience, with the Blue Sky providing a more traditional travel distance and the Ink Box Pink offering a slightly shallower option. Gamers, in particular, may lean towards the Ink Box Pink for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance. However, for those who prefer a deeper keystroke, the Blue Sky switch with its longer travel distance may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Pink 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 Pink 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 Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a high-pitched sound profile. This means that when pressed, these switches produce a sharp and crisp sound. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound, these switches may not be the best choice for you. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is described as clacky. This means that when pressed, they produce a sharp and snappy sound. The sound is often described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Both switches have a high-pitched sound profile, so you can expect similar results in terms of sound. However, it's important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by other factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience. These switches offer a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They fall within a safe, middle-ground zone, making them approachable to most users. The Blue Sky switches are also referred to as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch offers a silky typing experience. These switches enhance the overall smoothness of the feel and minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys. They are also described as polished, meaning they provide a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Here, both switches provide a smooth and polished feel, so you can expect similar results in terms of feel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a crystal clear linear typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile and mild feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch provides a smooth and translucent typing experience with a clacky sound profile and silky feel. While they have different sound and feel characteristics, both switches provide a refined typing experience with smooth key travel. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, you can choose between the Blue Sky switch for a higher-pitched sound and mild feel, or the Ink Box Pink switch for a clacky sound and silky feel. Regardless of your choice, both switches will offer a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a crystal-clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel, then the Blue Sky switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack sound, then the Ink Box Pink switch would be more suitable. When it comes to sound, the Blue Sky switch offers a high-pitched sound profile or a neutral sound profile, while the Ink Box Pink switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Blue Sky switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, while the Ink Box Pink switch provides a silky and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to your personal sound and feel preferences, so consider what type of typing experience you desire before making your decision.
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