Aflion Blue Sky vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and the Outemu Blue Jade each offer unique typing experiences. The Blue Sky is a linear switch known for its long pole stem, providing a crystal clear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Blue Jade is a clicky switch with no specific standout features. The Blue Sky is best suited for those looking for a high-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished typing experience, while the Blue Jade lacks distinctive characteristics. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Outemu Blue Jade, we can see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to stiffer plastics. However, the Blue Sky features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This clear housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a visually appealing choice for users looking to add some flair to their keyboard setup.
Despite the differences in the top housing material, both the Blue Sky and the Blue Jade share the quality of using nylon for their bottom housing. This means that when typing on either of these switches, users can expect a similar deep and full sound profile resulting from the softer nature of the nylon material. The top housing of the Blue Sky may offer a sharper and crisper sound when compared to the Blue Jade, but the overall typing experience will still have that characteristic softness and depth that nylon brings to the table.
It is important to note that the choice of housing material can greatly impact the sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch. While the Blue Sky's polycarbonate top housing creates a more resonant and clear sound profile, the Blue Jade's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch allows for a combination of qualities, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, we can see that both switches have a similar actuation force of 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Blue Sky is 60 grams, making it a slightly lighter option compared to the Blue Jade, which has a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Blue Sky may provide a slightly lighter typing experience, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Blue Jade offers a heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Overall, the choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences for typing experience and desired level of force.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in terms of how far the switch travels from top to bottom. When pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that whether you choose the Blue Sky or the Blue Jade, you can expect a consistent feel when typing or gaming. Both switches offer a similar level of key travel, providing a satisfying tactile feedback while typing. In terms of travel distance, there is no significant difference between the two switches, as they both offer a 4 mm keystroke.
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 Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a high-pitched and sharp sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is hard to provide a direct comparison. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is known for providing a mild and gentle typing experience, making it suitable for a wide range of users. Additionally, its polished finish ensures a smooth and sleek key travel. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is unknown, so it is difficult to compare the two in this aspect.
Overall, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch stands out for its crystal clear linear typing experience, high-pitched sound profile, and polished feel. While the qualities of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch are not as well-defined in terms of sound and feel, it is important to consider personal preference and typing style when choosing between the two. If you enjoy a sharp sound and smooth key travel, the Aflion Blue Sky switch may be the better option for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a sparkling and smooth linear typing experience with a medium bottom out force, then the Aflion Blue Sky switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and don't mind a bit of noise, the Outemu Blue Jade switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider trying out both switches to see which one aligns best with your needs and typing style. Happy typing!
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