Aflion Blue Sky vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and the PH Studio Jacaranda both offer distinct advantages for users seeking a linear typing experience. The Blue Sky switch is praised for its crystal clear feel and sparkling sound profile, making it a favorable choice for those who prefer a high-pitched and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Jacaranda switch stands out with its gentle bottom-out force and clacky sound signature, providing a silky and resonant feedback that may appeal to users looking for a more tactile typing experience. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Blue Sky and PH Studio Jacaranda feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting. However, while both switches use polycarbonate for their top housings, the material used for their bottom housings differs.
The Blue Sky utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Jacaranda also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite the differences in the bottom housing material, both switches offer a unique typing experience that combines the qualities of the top and bottom housings.
In summary, both the Aflion Blue Sky and PH Studio Jacaranda switches exhibit similar characteristics in terms of their polycarbonate top housings, which enhance the sound profile with sharpness and clarity. However, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart, with the Blue Sky offering a more absorbent and duller sound while the Jacaranda provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch contributes to their overall sound and typing feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it is clear that there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Blue Sky switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Jacaranda switch has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, classifying it as a lighter switch. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Jacaranda switch may appeal to users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Blue Sky switch, with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces, may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Jacaranda has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Blue Sky. The 0.5 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can impact the overall typing or gaming experience for some users. While both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with 4.0mm being the most common, the shorter 3.5 mm of the Jacaranda may appeal to those looking for quicker response times. On the other hand, the Blue Sky's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for users who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend 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 PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is known for its high-pitched and neutral profile, offering a sharp and crisp sound for those who prefer a brighter tone. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is characterized by its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound, providing a sharp and percussive feedback with every keystroke. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Blue Sky leaning towards a higher pitch and the Jacaranda emphasizing a more resonant and clacky sound.
Moving on to the feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is known for its silky feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that enhances overall smoothness and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Blue Sky being more polished and the Jacaranda focusing on delivering a silky smooth feel.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Sky provides a high-pitched and polished sound with a mild and approachable feel, while the Jacaranda offers a clacky and resonant sound with a silky smooth typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, ultimately providing users with a personalized and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a high-pitched sound profile with a smooth push feel, then the Blue Sky switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, a clacky sound profile with a bouncy sensation from the extended 22mm spring, and a silky smooth typing experience, then the Jacaranda switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on which features you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard switches.
Mentioned in this article
