Aflion Blue Sky vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Blue Sky and the Cherry Nixie, both linear switches. The Blue Sky switch is renowned for its long pole stem, providing a crystal clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie offers a textured typing experience with substantial heft thanks to Cherry's updated materials and springs. While the Blue Sky is categorized as high-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished, the Nixie is classified as textured, thocky, and low-pitched. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Cherry Nixie differ in terms of the top housing material. The Blue Sky features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Nixie has a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. These differences in top housing materials contribute to varying sound experiences for users of each switch.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Blue Sky and the Nixie utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. With both switches using nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect similar sound experiences when pressing down on the keys. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, impacting the overall typing experience.
Overall, the Aflion Blue Sky and Cherry Nixie switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to their top housing materials. The Blue Sky's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, crisper sound, while the Nixie's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound experience when pressing down on the keys. The differences in housing materials highlight the importance of material choice in affecting the sound profile of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that the Nixie has a heavier feel compared to the Blue Sky. The Blue Sky has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. On the other hand, the Nixie has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a smooth linear motion, but the difference in force makes the Nixie better suited for users who prefer a heavier typing experience, while the Blue Sky is more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and comfort level for keyboard users.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the key, as they both travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. Users can expect consistent and predictable feedback from both switches due to their identical travel distances. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, the Aflion Blue Sky and Cherry Nixie switches offer similar results and can be seen as equally effective options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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 Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie 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 is known for its high-pitched profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a thocky, deep, and satisfying sound, with a low-pitched tone that adds a bass-heavy and mellow quality. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles, catering to different preferences - whether you prefer a sharper, high-pitched sound or a deeper, thocky tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preference and the overall sound profile you desire for your typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, combining a gentle touch with a smooth and refined finish. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its textured, or scratchy feel, providing noticeable friction when pressed. The Blue Sky switch offers a more approachable and middle-ground typing experience, while the Nixie switch caters to those who prefer a slightly rougher texture during typing. Again, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, whether you prefer a smoother, polished feel or a textured, tactile experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Blue Sky switch provides a high-pitched, mild, and polished typing experience, while the Nixie switch offers a thocky, low-pitched, and textured feel. Both switches incorporate modern innovations and are well-regarded within the community, showcasing the diverse range of options available for keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a high-pitched, neutral sound profile with a mild and polished feel, the Blue Sky switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams and prefer a thocky, low-pitched sound profile with a textured feel, the Cherry Nixie switch could be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force when selecting between these two linear switches.
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