Aflion Blue Sky vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX SU both offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, despite both being linear switches. The Aflion Blue Sky is celebrated for its long pole stem, providing users with a crystal clear typing experience marked by a sparkling sound profile and an exquisitely smooth feel. This switch is categorized as high-pitched and polished, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a lively auditory feedback alongside an ultra-smooth keystroke. In contrast, the HMX SU features a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, resulting in a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile. While it may lack the brightness of the Blue Sky, its understated acoustics can create a more serene typing environment, appealing to users who prefer a quieter workspace. Both switches provide unique tactile experiences, but your choice may ultimately depend on whether you prioritize a vibrant sound and feel or a more muted, deeper sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the sound profiles and characteristics of the Aflion Blue Sky and HMX SU switches, a significant distinction emerges from the materials used in their top housings. The Blue Sky features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity, which contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for users who enjoy the clarity and precision that polycarbonate can provide, especially when using RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the HMX SU utilizes a nylon top housing, which brings a softer touch to the overall sound profile, creating a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The nylon's ability to absorb sound results in a duller and rounder output, making it more forgiving for those who prefer a muted typing experience over a bright, sharp feedback.
However, looking at the bottom housing reveals a point of convergence between the two switch types. Both the Blue Sky and the HMX SU employ nylon for their bottom housings, a classic choice in switch design. This consistent use of nylon means that both switches share similarities in sound quality upon bottoming out, as the softer material contributes to a deep, rich sound that appeals to many typists. Consequently, while the top housings differ—leading to distinct profiles during key release—the shared nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent tactile feel and sound when fully depressed, balancing each switch's performance and user experience.
Ultimately, the interaction between the differing top and similar bottom housing materials shapes a well-rounded typing experience across both the Aflion Blue Sky and HMX SU switches. The disparity in top housing materials suggests varied auditory feedback during different phases of key engagement; yet, the shared nylon in the bottoms means that once a key is fully pressed, users will experience a unified tonal quality. This interplay underscores the importance of both materials, as the relative advantages of each can be felt differently depending on whether the user is typing or releasing keys, leading to a comprehensive understanding of how these switches function.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Blue Sky features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-switch option. In contrast, the HMX SU offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that the SU is the lighter switch, ideal for users who may prefer a more comfortable typing experience over extended periods, such as during work or long gaming sessions. The difference in bottom out forces also emphasizes the SU's lighter feel, as it bottoms out at a lower force than the Blue Sky. Overall, those seeking a more substantial feel might appreciate the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Blue Sky, while users who favor a lighter touch should gravitate towards the HMX SU for its ease of use and reduced fatigue during extensive typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, there is a noticeable difference between the two. The Aflion Blue Sky features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a great choice for users who appreciate a more substantial keypress, while the HMX SU measures a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Given that 4 mm is the most traditional distance and often preferred by those seeking a hearty depth in their typing experience, the Blue Sky may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback. Conversely, the HMX SU's 3.6 mm travel distance caters to those who favor quicker response times, which is particularly advantageous for gamers. Here, the Aflion Blue Sky is the longer option, while the HMX SU is shorter, providing distinct choices based on user preference for keypress feel and responsiveness.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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
The sound profile of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is characterized as high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp auditory feedback upon actuation. This makes it an excellent option for users who prefer a more vibrant sound while typing, as well as those averse to the deeper, bassier tones found in some other switches. The description of the Blue Sky as also having a neutral sound range suggests its versatility, making it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. In contrast, the characteristics of the HMX SU's sound profile remain unspecified; however, sound is inherently influenced by factors such as the specific keyboard design and the keycaps utilized, which means the overall acoustic experience might vary significantly depending on the setup.
Regarding feel, the Aflion Blue Sky switch exudes a mild and polished tactile sensation. Its mild nature implies that it offers a gentle typing experience, catering to users who prefer a balance that is neither too pronounced nor too soft. This switch’s polished quality further enhances the typing experience, ensuring smooth key travel and minimal friction, likely due to superior materials or factory lubing techniques. Unfortunately, the feel characteristics of the HMX SU switch are also not detailed, leaving questions about its tactile response.
Considering all the available information, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch presents a compelling option for those seeking both a distinctive sound profile and a refined typing experience. While the HMX SU switch lacks available details regarding its sound and feel, users may need to explore it further or consider the Blue Sky switch if they favor clarity and smoothness in their mechanical typing experience. Overall, those looking for a rich yet polished linear switch might find the Blue Sky more appealing, while the SU could hold potential for those seeking to discover its uncharted qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, consider your specific typing preferences and purposes. The Blue Sky switch, with its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, is ideal if you prefer a slightly more substantial feel when typing. Its high-pitched sound profile and polished feel provide a crystal-clear and smooth typing experience that might be particularly appealing if you enjoy a more vibrant auditory feedback and a refined touch. This makes it a great choice for tasks requiring focus and precision, such as programming or writing. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of only 50 grams, the HMX SU switch stands out for its approachable feel; the subtle and relatively deep sound profile presents a softer aural experience, which may suit a quieter work environment or for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, if you value a less tactile but still satisfying experience, the SU switch’s design, including its full PA12 housing paired with a T5 stem, offers a different kind of smoothness that many find comfortable. Your choice should hinge on whether you seek a more pronounced auditory experience with the Blue Sky or a gentler, understated typing feel with the HMX SU.
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