Aflion Blue Sky vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Jupiter Red are two popular options to consider. The Blue Sky is a linear switch that stands out for its long pole stem, providing a crystal clear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red, also a linear switch, offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, thanks to its single-stage spring design. Both switches offer a polished and mild typing experience, but the Blue Sky is more high-pitched and neutral, while the Jupiter Red is creamy and silky. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Spring steel
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Jupiter Red feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, the two switches differ in their bottom housings. The Blue Sky's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red also features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar deep and full sound experience.
Despite having different bottom housings, both the Blue Sky and Jupiter Red switches offer a rich sound experience due to their nylon bottom housings. The softer nature of nylon allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housings of both switches contribute to a sharper and crisper sound, enhancing the overall sound quality of the keys. While the top and bottom housings may affect the sound and feel of the switches differently, both switches provide a high-quality sound profile for users looking to customize their typing experience.
When comparing the Blue Sky and Jupiter Red switches, it is evident that both switches prioritize sound quality by utilizing different materials for their top and bottom housings. The polycarbonate top housings create a sharp and clear sound profile, while the nylon bottom housings offer a deeper and fuller sound experience. This combination of materials allows for a dynamic typing experience that caters to various preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with the Blue Sky or a deeper sound with the Jupiter Red, both switches offer top-notch housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch both have a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, but differ slightly in their actuation force. The Blue Sky has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Jupiter Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly lighter. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly quicker response time for the Jupiter Red switch compared to the Blue Sky switch. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Jupiter Red for longer typing sessions, while others may appreciate the more substantial typing experience provided by the slightly heavier actuation force of the Blue Sky. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar bottom out force, so users can expect similar results in terms of the overall typing experience between the two switches.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity allows for consistent typing experiences across both switches, as the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is consistent. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches.
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 Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 offers a high-pitched and sharp sound profile when pressed, perfect for those who prefer a more crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch provides a more neutral sound, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches offer a pleasant typing sound, but the Blue Sky will deliver a more distinct high-pitched sound compared to the Jupiter Red's neutral profile.
Moving on to the feel, the Blue Sky linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch boasts a polished and creamy feel, providing a smooth and buttery typing sensation with minimal resistance. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Blue Sky may lean towards a more polished and mild feel, while the Jupiter Red delivers a creamier and silky typing experience.
Overall, when comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is clear that both switches offer high-quality linear typing experiences with their own unique sound and feel characteristics. The Blue Sky excels in providing a high-pitched sound and a polished feel, while the Jupiter Red offers a neutral sound and a creamy typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. If you prefer a more distinct crisp sound and refined feel, the Blue Sky may be the better option, while those looking for a smoother and buttery typing experience may favor the Gateron Jupiter Red.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch or the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a high-pitched sound profile and a mild, polished typing experience, the Blue Sky may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a creamy, silky typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation force, the Jupiter Red may be more suitable. Consider your typing style, desired sound profile, and preferred actuation force when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience with their own unique characteristics, so it's important to choose the one that best fits your preferences and needs.
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