Aflion Blue Sky vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX Macchiato stand out as intriguing linear options, each catering to different preferences. The Blue Sky switch is celebrated for its long pole stem, which provides a crystal-clear linear typing experience, complemented by a sparkling sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel. With classifications ranging from high-pitched to polished, it appeals to users who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback alongside a fluid keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is designed for those who prioritize a silky smooth typing experience with a bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts who value subtle elegance over strong acoustics. Both switches deliver unique sensations and auditory characteristics, making them appealing for various typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
POK
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blue Sky and HMX Macchiato switches exhibit distinct characteristics based on the materials used for their top housings, which directly influences their sound profiles. The Blue Sky features a polycarbonate top housing that is known for its stiffness, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This characteristic is particularly favorable for users who prefer a more resonant auditory experience, especially when utilizing RGB lighting due to polycarbonate's inherent translucency. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato uses a nylon top housing, a classic material known for its softer consistency. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, giving the user a more subdued auditory feedback during typing. Consequently, the differences in their top housing materials create two distinct acoustic experiences—one that is bright and prominent in the Blue Sky and another that is smoother and rounder in the Macchiato.
Both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing material, with both the Blue Sky and Macchiato utilizing nylon. This choice is significant as nylon is both the industry standard and respected for its ability to absorb sound, creating a deeper bottom-out experience that enhances the overall typing feel. Since both switches inherit this quality from their nylon bottom housing, they provide a consistent experience in terms of producing a fuller and more muted sound when keys bottom out. This means that regardless of the differing top housing materials, users can expect a certain level of auditory and tactile satisfaction when pressing the keys down on either switch.
Ultimately, the contrasting top and matching bottom housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and HMX Macchiato create unique yet complementary sound profiles. The Blue Sky's high-pitched and resonant sound from the polycarbonate top is counterbalanced by the mellow and rounded bottom-out sound contributed by its nylon base. Conversely, the Macchiato's softer top housing promotes a deeper overall sound, while its bottom housing ensures a similar depth in keystroke impact. Both switches, therefore, manage to evoke differentiated aural experiences while still resonating with a fuller sound when keys are pressed down, making them appealing to diverse user preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Blue Sky has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classifying it as medium. In contrast, the Macchiato boasts a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a preferable option for those who favor a lighter keypress. As such, the Macchiato would be better suited for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier Blue Sky switch might cater to those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience, providing a stronger push feel. Overall, while both switches serve their respective preferences well, users who prioritize lighter switches would find the HMX Macchiato more appealing, while those looking for medium resistance would prefer the Aflion Blue Sky.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users will experience an identical feel when pressing down on the keys, leading to similar results in terms of key engagement and keystroke feedback. Since both switches share this travel distance, they can be expected to provide a comparable typing experience, making them suitable alternatives for those seeking linear switches with identical travel characteristics.
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 HMX Macchiato has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Macchiato for $2.99.
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
The sound profile of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is noted for its high-pitched characteristics, producing a sharp and crisp sound that is particularly appealing to those who prefer a clearer auditory feedback without the richness of bassy tones. Additionally, it possesses a neutral quality, making it versatile for both casual and professional environments, suitable for beginners and experienced users alike. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato linear switch is celebrated for its bright sound profile, which aligns it closely with the Blue Sky in terms of auditory clarity. While specific descriptors for the Macchiato's sound are not provided, one can expect a similarly bright auditory experience given its design intent.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Sky switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. The mild nature ensures that the switch is approachable for all users, while the polished quality results in a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and enhancing key travel comfort. Unfortunately, details regarding the feel of the HMX Macchiato switch are unknown, making direct comparisons challenging. However, considering its purpose for a silky smooth experience, it is likely to share a level of refinement that would make it similarly comfortable for users who value a smooth key press.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Blue Sky and HMX Macchiato switches aim to provide a pleasant typing experience, with the Blue Sky leaning towards a sharp, crisp sound and a gentle, polished feel. The Macchiato also emphasizes a bright sound and a silky smooth experience, which could resonate well with those who appreciate refinement in their typing. While some qualities of the Macchiato remain unspecified, it is reasonable to suggest that it may embody similar attributes, particularly in sound and feel, allowing users to enjoy a comparable typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a slightly firmer key press that offers a crystal clear linear typing experience, then the Blue Sky is an excellent choice for you. With its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, these switches provide a well-balanced feel that can suit both casual typing and more intensive uses. The high-pitched sound profile adds a touch of brightness that can be appealing in a lively typing environment. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch for effortless typing, the Macchiato’s 50 grams bottom-out force would be the way to go. Its silky smooth operation and bright sound are perfect for those who prioritize a gentle and easy-to-press option, making it ideal for long typing sessions without noticeable fatigue. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style, so consider factors like the amount of force you prefer, the sound profile that resonates with you, and the type of work or play you'll be engaging in most frequently.
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