Aflion Blue Sky vs. HMX KD200

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Blue Sky and HMX KD200 both offer unique linear experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Blue Sky is celebrated for its long pole stem, providing an exceptionally smooth push feel and a sparkling sound profile that enhances the typing experience with a high-pitched yet mild resonance. This makes it an appealing choice for users seeking a refined and polished touch. On the other hand, the HMX KD200 distinguishes itself as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, promising a more pronounced auditory feedback that can be particularly satisfying for those who enjoy a more tactile experience without sacrificing the benefits of a linear switch. Each switch presents distinct advantages; while the Blue Sky offers a quieter and smoother typing experience, the KD200 introduces a more dynamic soundscape. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that aligns with your specific preferences.

By the numbers

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

HMX KD200 Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

The Aflion Blue Sky and HMX KD200 exhibit distinct characteristics in their top housing materials that significantly affect their sound profiles. The Blue Sky utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer structure, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. This quality is particularly advantageous for applications that require clarity, especially in environments where RGB lighting is utilized, enhancing visual aesthetics due to its translucency. In contrast, the KD200 is equipped with a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature. This material absorbs more sound compared to polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience that may be preferred by users seeking a more subdued typing sound.

Both switches feature nylon for their bottom housings, which harmonizes their overall acoustic experiences. The nylon bottom housing in both the Blue Sky and KD200 plays a significant role in delivering a deep and rich typing experience. This consistency in material choice results in each switch having a similar bottom-out sound and tactile feedback when pressed. Since the bottom housing is responsible for the impact experience and sound when the switch is fully actuated, both switches will exhibit a comparable feel that emphasizes the mellower qualities imparted by nylon, ensuring users enjoy a consistent experience across different types of switches despite their varying top housing materials.

Due to the different top housing materials, users can expect varying sound profiles when releasing the keys. The polycarbonate top of the Blue Sky will produce a sharper, more resonant sound when a key is unpressed, while the nylon top of the KD200 will deliver a smoother and more rounded sound. Ultimately, while both switches share the same nylon bottom, the contrasting top housings create a balance between sharper and fuller sound profiles. Collectively, this means that users can enjoy a tailored typing experience that reflects their preferences, as the combination of materials helps to achieve desired acoustic results while providing a tactile feel characteristic of nylon in the bottom housing across both models.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, we find distinct differences that cater to varying user preferences. The Blue Sky has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classifying it as a medium-force switch. In contrast, the KD200 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. This difference in actuation force means that the KD200 will require less effort to press, which may be more comfortable for users who type for extended periods or favor a lighter touch. Conversely, the Blue Sky's heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a more substantial feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out sensations, with the KD200 being the lighter option and the Blue Sky delivering a heavier, more forceful experience.

Travel distance

The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Blue Sky measuring 4 mm and the KD200 measuring 3.5 mm. This makes the Blue Sky the longer option, offering a more substantial depth when pressed, which may appeal to users who prefer a more tactile experience. In contrast, the KD200, with its shorter 3.5 mm travel, is likely to provide quicker response times, catering to those who value rapid key presses, such as gamers. While both switches offer distinct benefits based on travel distance preferences, the choice ultimately hinges on whether one appreciates a deeper, more deliberate actuation or a snappier, more responsive feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Aflion Blue Sky switch is characterized by its high-pitched and neutral qualities, providing a sharp, crisp auditory feedback that many users find appealing, especially in quieter environments where clarity is desired. This type of sound is well-suited for users who prefer a less bass-heavy auditory experience, making it ideal for both beginners and more experienced typists alike. The clarity in sound can enhance the typing experience as every keystroke is accentuated without overwhelming bass tones. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the HMX KD200 switch are not specified, making it challenging to compare directly in terms of auditory feedback. However, given its reputation as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, it’s safe to assume that this switch offers a more pronounced and potentially richer sound profile.

When it comes to feel, the Blue Sky switches stand out with their mild and polished characteristics. Users can expect a gentle typing experience with reduced friction due to a smooth finish, allowing for effortless key travel that enhances the overall enjoyment of typing. This makes the Blue Sky an appealing choice for those who prioritize comfort and ease of use. On the other hand, the feel attributes of the KD200 switch are not detailed, which leaves a gap in understanding its tactile properties. The absence of specific descriptors means that users may be uncertain about how it compares in terms of smoothness or typing experience, which is a crucial element for discerning typists.

In summary, while the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch boasts a highly regarded sound and feel—with its high-pitched clarity and polished gentle typing experience—the HMX KD200 linear switch remains somewhat of an enigma in this regard, particularly concerning its sound and tactile qualities. If auditory feedback and typing comfort are your primary concerns, the Blue Sky clearly offers a more defined experience. However, if you are drawn to a clackier sound profile, the KD200 might still be a compelling option, albeit with unknown tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal preferences and the specific auditory or tactile experiences you seek in your mechanical keyboard switch.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you appreciate a medium bottom-out force that provides a balanced typing experience, the Blue Sky is an excellent choice. Its long pole stem delivers a crystal-clear linear typing experience, complemented by a high-pitched sound profile that caters to those who favor a sharp and crisp auditory feedback without overwhelming bass. This switch is particularly suited for general use, whether at home or in a professional setting, thanks to its mild and polished feel that ensures smooth key travel and comfort during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a softer bottom-out force of 50 grams, the KD200 is the way to go. This switch stands out for its clacky sound, making it an appealing option if you enjoy a more expressive auditory feedback while you type. The KD200 may be ideal for gamers who seek a lively and engaging keyboard experience or for those who favor tactile interactions without compromising too much on comfort. Thus, your choice should align with your tactile preference, sound profile desires, and the nature of tasks you will be performing with your keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

HMX KD200 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more