Aflion Blue Sky vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown

Overview

When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often narrows down to personal preference and typing style. The Aflion Blue Sky switch, a linear option, is celebrated for its long pole stem that delivers a crystal clear typing experience marked by a sparkling sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel. This makes it an ideal choice for those who favor a seamless, uninterrupted typing flow without tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown offers a tactile experience, combining tradition with modernity through its single-stage spring construction. With a medium-heavy weight and a classic keystroke feel, it provides satisfying feedback that can enhance typing accuracy and enjoyment. Both switches have their unique attributes, appealing to different users—whether you seek a smooth and quiet experience or prefer the reassuring sensation of tactile bumps with each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

Gateron Jupiter Brown Tactile

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$2.80 per 10

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Housing materials

The Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Jupiter Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which serve as a key component in shaping the overall sound profile of each switch. The use of polycarbonate results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, largely due to its stiffer nature compared to other plastics. This stiffness enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing. Additionally, both switches capitalize on the aesthetic advantages of polycarbonate. The clear nature of the material not only allows for a vibrant RGB lighting experience but also visually enhances the switches, making them attractive to customization enthusiasts. Given that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, users can expect similar auditory experiences when these switches are engaged.

In contrast, the bottom housing of both the Blue Sky and the Jupiter Brown switches is made from nylon, a material known for its sound-absorbing qualities. Unlike polycarbonate, nylon is a softer plastic and tends to create a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. The material’s ability to absorb more sound contributes to a rounder and less sharp auditory experience, which contrasts with the higher-pitched sound achieved by the polycarbonate top. This use of nylon helps to balance the overall character of the switches. While the top housing defines the sound as the key is released, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in shaping the bottom-out sound and the tactile experience when pressing down the keys, leading to a more nuanced typing experience.

Ultimately, while the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Jupiter Brown use different materials for their top and bottom housings, the combination of polycarbonate on top and nylon on the bottom in both switches leads to a cohesive and harmonious interaction during use. Both switches share a similar crispness when keys are released due to the polycarbonate top, while the deeper sound profile provided by the nylon bottoms contributes to an overall balanced sound when typing. Thus, even though the switches possess distinct characteristics in their individual housing materials, the resulting sound and feel align to deliver a familiar user experience across both models.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch to the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Blue Sky has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a lighter option overall, ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience for extended periods, such as during work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Jupiter Brown features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, resulting in a medium-heavy feel. This additional resistance may cater to those who desire a more substantial typing experience. Thus, while both switches fall into the medium and medium-heavy categories respectively, the Blue Sky is lighter and provides a softer touch, whereas the Jupiter Brown offers a firmer push feel that some users might find preferable for tactile feedback.

Travel distance

Both the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that when pressed, both switches travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. This equivalence in travel distance indicates that users will experience similar feedback in terms of key actuation and overall keystroke depth. As a result, if you prefer a switch with a 4 mm travel distance, you can expect comparable results in typing feel and responsiveness between these two switches, making either a viable option based on other preferences such as switch type and tactile feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is characterized as high-pitched and neutral, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This makes it suitable for users who prefer a lighter, more clear auditory feedback as they type. The linear nature of the switch means it doesn’t have a tactile bump, resulting in a smooth sound with less variation. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch does not have a specified sound profile, but as a tactile switch, it generally provides a more muted typing experience than linear ones, likely leaning towards a richer sound that includes some bass elements when bottoming out.

When it comes to feel, both switches exhibit similar qualities, with both the Blue Sky and Jupiter Brown being described as mild and polished. The smooth finish of the Blue Sky offers a polished experience, ideal for users looking for a sleek typing sensation with minimal friction. The Jupiter Brown, while also polished, introduces a unique aspect with its stepped tactile feedback, providing distinct stages within the keystroke. This step creates a clear tactile sensation that can be perceived in two parts, contributing to a more classic typing experience compared to the strictly smooth operation of the Blue Sky.

In conclusion, while the Aflion Blue Sky and Gateron Jupiter Brown switches cater to different preferences—linear versus tactile—they share some common ground in their feel, offering mild and polished experiences that are comfortable for most users. The sound profile of the Blue Sky is clear and crisp, which may appeal to those who prefer a lighter sound, while the Jupiter Brown provides a more traditional tactile experience that might contribute to variations in auditory feedback but remains unmeasured in this context. Ultimately, choice between them can come down to personal preference, especially in regard to sound and tactile feedback.

Conclusion

In summary, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it’s important to consider your typing style and personal preferences. If you prefer a smooth, linear experience with a sparkling sound profile and a medium bottom-out force, the Aflion Blue Sky is the ideal choice for you. It caters well to those who may spend long hours typing or gaming, as it provides a gentle yet responsive feel that can make extended use more comfortable. Conversely, if you like the feedback of a tactile switch with a slightly heavier bottom-out force, the Gateron Jupiter Brown can offer you that satisfying bump during keypresses while maintaining a polished and mild feel. It’s especially suitable for users who appreciate a balance between traditional typing feedback and a modern aesthetic, thanks to its enhanced backlight effects. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you value a smooth, linear experience or a tactile response with more pronounced feedback, as each switch caters to distinct typing preferences and environments.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Jupiter Brown Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more