Aflion Blue Sky vs. Neo Lavender HE
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Neo Lavender HE switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Blue Sky and the Neo Lavender HE present two compelling yet distinct options tailored to different user preferences. The Aflion Blue Sky, a linear switch with a long pole stem, is celebrated for its crystal clear typing experience, characterized by a sparkling sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel. This switch is ideal for users who prioritize a high-pitched, polished auditory feedback while enjoying a fluid key press. On the other hand, the Neo Lavender HE stands apart as a hall effect switch known for its clean, low sound, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing performance. Compatible with Wooting keyboards, it distinguishes itself as a unique choice for gamers and typists alike. While each switch offers distinct auditory and tactile experiences based on their design, personal preference will be the key determinant. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blue Sky and the Neo Lavender HE utilize different materials for their top housing, leading to distinct sound profiles and acoustic qualities. The Blue Sky features a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, enhancing the clarity and resonance when typing. Its translucency allows for optimal RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts who desire both aesthetics and performance. In contrast, the Lavender HE employs a nylon top housing, a classic material known for creating a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder, duller acoustic quality. This fundamental difference in top housing materials contributes to the overall typing experience, as users may prefer the clarity of the Blue Sky or the warmth of the Lavender HE.
While the top housings diverge in material and resulting sound profile, both switches share similarity in their bottom housing composition. Both the Blue Sky and Lavender HE feature nylon for their bottom housings. This commonality means that regardless of the differing top housings, users will experience similar sound characteristics from the bottom housing. The nylon's ability to absorb sound contributes to a deeper and fuller typing experience for both switches, reinforcing that both models can produce satisfying acoustics at the foundation level. Thus, typing on either switch will yield a similar base sound that emphasizes warmth and depth, even as the overall sound profile may diverge due to the top housing’s material differences.
In practical application, the differing influences of top and bottom housing materials highlight how the design elements work in concert to create the overall tactile and auditory experience. For instance, pressing keys with the Blue Sky will accentuate the clear and resonant qualities from the polycarbonate top housing while still benefiting from the warmer undertones provided by the nylon bottom housing. Conversely, the typing experience on the Lavender HE will begin with a deep, fuller sound signature due to nylon's acoustic properties, while the softer response may mellow out the sharper notes offered by a polycarbonate top. Ultimately, while each switch delivers a unique tonal quality due to its specific housing materials, their shared nylon bottoms ensure that both models provide a rich and satisfying typing experience, appealing to different preferences in sound clarity and fullness.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Blue Sky switch requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorized as medium weight, which provides a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer. In contrast, the Lavender HE switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who seek ease of typing and longer sessions without fatigue. Consequently, the Blue Sky is the heavier option, while the Lavender HE is the lighter choice. Users looking for a softer touch will find the Lavender HE to be more comfortable, whereas those who prefer a firmer feedback may gravitate towards the Blue Sky for its stronger push feel.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch reveals a notable difference; the Blue Sky features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Lavender HE offers a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Blue Sky, with its longer 4 mm distance, may provide a deeper and more satisfying tactile feedback, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial key press. Conversely, the Lavender HE's shorter 3.8 mm travel distance may cater to gamers or those who prioritize quick response times, as the reduced distance allows for faster actuation. Thus, if you value rapid engagement, the Lavender HE could be the preferable option, while the Blue Sky might be better suited for those who enjoy a more pronounced 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 Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switches deliver a high-pitched and sharp auditory experience, renowned for their crisp sound profile that appeals to those who prefer a more defined acoustic without the rich, bassy tones often found in other switches. The neutral sound aspect of the Blue Sky further enhances its versatility, making it suitable for a range of environments, whether it's at home or in a workplace setting. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch is known for its clean, low sound profile, which stands out due to its unique operation in conjunction with Wooting keyboards. While both switches provide distinct sound characteristics, the Blue Sky offers a brighter tone compared to the muted, solid sound of the Lavender HE.
In terms of feel, the Blue Sky is characterized by a mild and polished experience, offering a gentle yet refined typing sensation that appeals to a wide audience. This smooth key travel is a result of quality materials and possibly factory lubing that reduces friction, ensuring a soft touch as you type. Unfortunately, the specifics of the feel regarding the Lavender HE switch are unknown, but one can anticipate that its hall effect operation provides a different tactile sensation compared to traditional mechanical switches. The Blue Sky's gentle and polished attributes create a welcoming typing experience that is likely mutually exclusive to the Lavender HE.
Considering the aforementioned qualities, the Aflion Blue Sky and Neo Lavender HE switches each bring unique characteristics to the table. The Blue Sky excels in offering a bright sound and smooth feel, making it a popular choice for general use. On the other hand, the Lavender HE offers a distinctive low sound and operates on a different technology that could provide a unique tactile experience, though specifics on its feel remain unclear. Ultimately, your choice between these switches would depend on your personal preference for sound and feel; however, if you're drawn to a specific quality, the Blue Sky is likely the more approachable option, while the Lavender HE will appeal to those seeking something less traditional and potentially quieter.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch largely depends on your typing style and preference for sound and feel. If you favor a medium bottom-out force with a crisp, high-pitched sound and an exquisitely smooth typing experience, the Blue Sky switches are ideal for you. They provide a polished and mild touch, making them versatile enough for both work and play, ensuring that you have a satisfying experience whether you’re typing emails or gaming. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lighter touch with a clean, low sound profile and you're using a compatible keyboard like a Wooting, the Lavender HE is a great choice. This switch features a unique hall effect technology that sets it apart, offering a distinct feel that can enhance your typing experience, especially for fast-paced tasks. So, based on your specific needs for sound, feel, and actuation force, you can confidently choose the switch that resonates with your preferences.
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