Aflion Blue Sky vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Lunar Probe both offer compelling features for users seeking a linear typing experience. The Aflion Blue Sky is praised for its crystal clear linear feel and high-pitched, polished sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who prioritize smooth keypresses and a unique typing sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe stands out for its dual rail mechanism that ensures consistent keypresses and a pre-lubed, smooth linear sensation. While the Blue Sky offers a mild and neutral typing experience, the Lunar Probe provides a subtle sound signature. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Lunar Probe both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for users who prioritize the acoustics of their keyboard. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. In terms of sound and aesthetics, both switches offer similar qualities due to their shared polycarbonate top housing material.
On the other hand, the Blue Sky's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Lunar Probe's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound, making it a popular choice for users who prefer a quieter typing experience. The difference in bottom housing material between the two switches may result in a slightly varied typing feel and sound when bottoming out keys. However, both switches maintain a high level of quality and performance, catering to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Blue Sky offers a unique typing experience that balances sharpness and depth in sound. In contrast, the Lunar Probe's consistent use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings provides a more uniform sound profile throughout typing. While both switches excel in providing a crisp and clear sound, the choice between the two may depend on individual preferences for key feel and sound characteristics.
Weight
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Sky requires 60 grams while the Lunar Probe needs 50 grams, making the Lunar Probe lighter in this aspect. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Lunar Probe more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Blue Sky offers a bit more resistance, providing a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Both switches offer different weight options, catering to individuals with varying preferences on actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal typing preferences, with the Blue Sky being slightly heavier and the Lunar Probe leaning towards a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Blue Sky on the longer end and the Lunar Probe on the shorter end. Gamers may prefer the Lunar Probe for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Blue Sky with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress feel and responsiveness.
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 Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 switch offers a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound when pressed, perfect for those who prefer a less bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch does not have a specific sound description provided, leaving room for interpretation based on individual preferences and setup. Both switches, however, will provide a pleasant typing experience depending on the overall keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, making it gentle and approachable for most users. The smooth and refined finish of the switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch does not have a specific feel description provided, but based on its smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation, it is likely to provide a comfortable typing experience as well.
Overall, both the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Blue Sky excels in providing a high-pitched sound profile and a mild, polished feel, the Lunar Probe focuses on stable and consistent keypresses with a smooth linear sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches will deliver reliable performance and a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference and the overall keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a high-pitched sound profile with a mild and polished typing feel, the Blue Sky switch would be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and appreciate a neutral sound profile with a smooth and pre-lubed typing feel, the Lunar Probe switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
Mentioned in this article
