Aflion Blue Sky vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly influence both typing experience and sound profile. The Aflion Blue Sky switch, a linear type, is renowned for its smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, making it an ideal choice for users who prefer a serene typing experience without tactile bumps. This switch features a long pole stem that delivers a crystal-clear linear feel, coupled with a sparkling sound profile that is categorized as high-pitched and polished. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switch stands out for its charming "thock" sound, appealing to enthusiasts who seek a softer auditory experience during typing. This hall effect switch is designed to provide a balanced performance, characterized by a super smooth keystroke thanks to its dustproof stem, which minimizes wobble and enhances overall feel. Users who appreciate a refined tactile sensation might gravitate towards the Sticky Rice (V2). While both switches offer unique advantages—be it the Blue Sky's clarity and smoothness or the Sticky Rice's balanced auditory feedback—let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style.
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
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Blue Sky and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) share notable similarities in their housing materials, both incorporating polycarbonate for the top shell and nylon for the bottom. The use of polycarbonate in both switches contributes to a sound profile that is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper due to the material's stiffness. This characteristic enables a clear and resonant quality, enhancing the auditory experience, particularly when RGB lighting is employed. In both switches, the translucent nature of the polycarbonate top allows the illumination from the RGB lighting to shine through effectively, creating a visually appealing effect that enhances the overall aesthetic of the keyboards.
While the top housing materials are identical in both models, the bottom housings create a divergence in the acoustic characteristics of the switches. Both the Blue Sky and the Sticky Rice (V2) utilize nylon for the bottom housing, which means that typing on these switches will produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic properties allow for greater sound absorption compared to the stiffer polycarbonate used in the top, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This complementary relationship between the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom allows users to experience the distinct tonal qualities that each material brings, balancing out the overall sound profile of the switches.
Ultimately, despite the shared components of polycarbonate and nylon, the housing configurations of the Aflion Blue Sky and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) have unique effects on the typing experience. The top housing primarily influences the sound when releasing a key, while the nylon bottom housing has a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound and feel during typing. Consequently, both switches can deliver an enjoyable auditory feedback experience, capitalizing on the strengths of their respective materials to achieve an engaging and dynamic performance. The result is a harmonious balance between the crispness of the polycarbonate and the warmth of the nylon, allowing users of both switches to enjoy similar sound profiles in different contexts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, distinct differences emerge that cater to various user preferences. The Aflion Blue Sky features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a medium resistance that appeals to those who enjoy a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who favor a less strenuous key press, particularly during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Therefore, while the Blue Sky provides a heavier and more tactile feedback, the Sticky Rice (V2) with its lighter weight allows for effortless keystrokes and a more comfortable experience over extended use. In summary, if users prioritize ease of use and minimal fatigue, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is the preferable choice, while those seeking a more robust feel may opt for the Aflion Blue Sky.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Blue Sky provides a more traditional and deeper keystroke, which some users may find more satisfying and less abrupt. On the other hand, the Sticky Rice (V2) caters to the growing trend of shorter travel distances, appealing particularly to gamers seeking quicker response times. The 3.5 mm travel distance allows for a more rapid actuation, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming scenarios. Consequently, individuals who prefer a more pronounced keystroke might opt for the Blue Sky, whereas those who favor a snappier, more responsive experience would lean toward the Sticky Rice (V2). Overall, the Blue Sky has a longer travel distance, while the Sticky Rice (V2) offers the shorter option.
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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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 has a distinct high-pitched tone, providing a sharp and crisp auditory feedback when pressed. This makes it ideal for users who prefer a clearer and more articulate sound rather than the deeper, bass-heavy profiles found in other switches. The Blue Sky’s neutral sound characteristic further enhances its versatility, suitable for both casual and professional typing environments, ensuring that it won't overpower your workspace. In comparison, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offers a neutral sound signature as well, aiming for a harmonious balance that leans towards a subtle "thock," a quality revered by enthusiasts. This sound profile tends to resonate well with users who appreciate the acoustic feedback from their switches without veering into excess.
When considering feel, the Aflion Blue Sky switches excel with their mildly refined typing experience. They are designed to offer a gentle touch, making them approachable for typists at any skill level. The polished nature of these switches ensures a smooth keystroke, resulting in a sleek typing experience that reduces friction and enhances overall comfort. The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) also impresses with its super smooth keystroke courtesy of a dustproof stem, which minimizes wobble and enhances performance. However, while both switches provide a refined feel, the Sticky Rice emphasizes a subtle tactile sensation without veering into overly pronounced characteristics, providing its own compelling appeal for those who prefer a more balanced typing experience without sacrificing smoothness.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch present unique yet appealing features that cater to different preferences. The Blue Sky’s high-pitched sound and polished feel make it suitable for users who enjoy a clear auditory feedback coupled with a smoother typing experience. Conversely, the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a neutral sound profile with a refined keystroke that allows for a balanced and tactile typing experience. While each excels in its own right, both switches can deliver smooth, satisfying results that will appeal to various users in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, consider the typing experience you desire and your specific usage scenarios. If you prefer a medium actuation force and are in search of a switch that delivers a crisp, high-pitched sound with a very smooth push feel, the Blue Sky is an excellent choice. It excels in environments where a lively typing experience is desired, making it perfect for typing enthusiasts who appreciate a sparkling sound profile and a polished, mild feel. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter keystroke and seek a more balanced auditory experience, the Sticky Rice (V2) is the way to go. Its refined "thock" sound and super smooth keystroke provide a delightful experience for those who enjoy seamless performance coupled with a neutral sound signature. This switch is ideal for both casual and gaming setups where comfort and consistency are key. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value a more vibrant typing experience or a refined and quieter one, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard experience aligns perfectly with your preferences.
Mentioned in this article
