Aflion Blue Sky vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, you'll find two distinct typing experiences to consider. The Blue Sky switch boasts a linear typing experience with a long pole stem, providing a crystal clear feel and a smooth push that results in a high-pitched and polished sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switch offers a gentle tactility with a muted sound profile, ideal for quiet and comfortable office use. 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
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Mini i, it is clear that they both utilize different materials for their top housing. While the Blue Sky features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer plastic and sharper sound profile, the Mini i opts for a nylon top housing, which is softer and creates a deeper, fuller sound. The difference in materials results in a distinct typing experience for each switch. However, both switches benefit from the unique properties of their respective top housings, with the polycarbonate providing a clear and resonant sound profile for the Blue Sky, while the nylon offers a more absorbing and duller sound for the Mini i.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Blue Sky and Mini i use nylon as their material of choice. This means that when typing on these switches, users can expect a similar experience in terms of the sound profile. The softness of the nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing sound. This consistency in material for the bottom housing ensures that the typing feel and sound remain relatively consistent between the two switches. However, it is important to note that while the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing is more influential on the sound produced when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Aflion Blue Sky and Gateron Mini i allows for distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The differences in materials, such as polycarbonate and nylon, result in unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Blue Sky offers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the Mini i provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing. The consistency of nylon material for the bottom housing ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound absorption and depth. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, each with its own unique sound profile influenced by the choice of housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it is evident that the Mini i is the lighter option with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Blue Sky switch offers a slightly heavier typing experience with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Blue Sky switch provides a more substantial feel when typing due to the heavier force required. Both switches offer a medium level of resistance, but the Blue Sky switch leans towards the heavier side compared to the Mini i switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for typing experience and the desired level of force feedback.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch have different travel distances, with the Blue Sky having a travel distance of 4 mm and the Mini i having a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Blue Sky has a longer travel distance compared to the Mini i, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Mini i's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience desired.
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 Mini i comes in at $6.00 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 switch offers a high-pitched and sharp sound profile that is distinct and may appeal to those who prefer a crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile that is moderate and suitable for various settings. Both switches offer a balanced sound that can be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blue Sky switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that enhances overall typing comfort. Conversely, the Gateron Mini i switch offers a bouncy and easy-to-press sensation, providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. Both switches offer a mild typing experience that caters to a wide range of users, with the Aflion switch focusing on smoothness and refinement while the Gateron switch emphasizes responsiveness and comfort.
Considering all the available information, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer different but equally appealing qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Sky switch provides a high-pitched sound and a polished typing experience, the Mini i switch offers a neutral sound profile and a bouncy, easy-to-press feel. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, allowing users to choose based on their individual needs and preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a high-pitched sound profile with a smooth push feel, the Blue Sky switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a subtle, muted sound profile with gentle tactility, the Gateron Mini i switch is the way to go. The Blue Sky offers a polished and mild typing experience, while the Mini i provides an easy-to-press and bouncy feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferred typing experience and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. Choose the switch that best suits your needs and enjoy a satisfying typing experience.
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