Aflion Blue Sky vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky and the Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Blue Sky provides a linear typing experience with a long pole stem, offering a crystal clear push feel and a high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Salt Ice boasts exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, with vibrant feedback and effortless actuation for a more energetic typing experience. While the Blue Sky is categorized as high-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished, the Salt Ice lacks specific categories. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths and appeal to different types of users. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide which switch is best for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, we can see that both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, polycarbonate is translucent, making it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, while the Blue Sky uses a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, the Salt Ice utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, echoing the same sharp and clear sound profile found in its top housing.
Despite using different bottom housing materials, the Aflion Blue Sky and the Jerrzi Salt Ice both prioritize creating a distinct sound profile through their choice of housings. The nylon bottom housing of the Blue Sky offers a more rounded and dull sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice maintains a consistent sharp and resonant sound. This shows how the housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound experience of a switch, especially when considering the bottom-out sound and feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky and the Jerrzi Salt Ice comes down to personal preference regarding sound profile and feel. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound, but diverge in their bottom housing materials, resulting in different typing experiences. Whether you prefer the deeper sound of nylon or the crisper sound of polycarbonate, understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience is crucial in making an informed decision.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is clear that the Blue Sky requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Salt Ice's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Sky has a higher force of 60 grams while the Salt Ice's bottom out force is unknown. The Blue Sky provides a more substantial typing experience with slightly heavier forces, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Salt Ice offers a lighter actuation force, which is preferable for those looking to type for longer periods without fatigue. Overall, the Blue Sky is slightly heavier in both actuation and bottom out force, while the Salt Ice is lighter in actuation force, though bottom out force is unknown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Blue Sky has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Salt Ice. A 0.6 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can make a difference in terms of the feel and response of the switch. Gamers who prefer faster response times may opt for the Salt Ice with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Blue Sky. Both options offer a good balance between traditional and shallow travel distances, providing users with a variety of choices to suit their preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 profile that produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch's sound profile is unknown. In terms of feel, the Blue Sky switch provides a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users, with a polished finish for smooth and refined key travel. As for the Salt Ice switch, the feel qualities are also unknown. Overall, while the Blue Sky and Salt Ice linear switches may have different sound and feel characteristics based on the available information, both switches offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience. Users can expect vibrant feedback from the Salt Ice switch and exquisitely smooth push feel from the Blue Sky switch. In conclusion, depending on personal preference and typing style, both switches can provide similar results in terms of typing satisfaction, with the Blue Sky offering a high-pitched sound and mild feel, while the Salt Ice may provide a different sound and feel experience that could be equally pleasing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, you should consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth, crystal-clear linear typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile, the Blue Sky may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a lighter touch, exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, and vibrant feedback, the Salt Ice switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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