Aflion Blue Sky vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available to suit every typing preference. Two popular switches to consider are the Aflion Blue Sky, a linear switch, and the Gazzew U4, a tactile switch. The Blue Sky switch is best known for its long pole stem, offering a crystal clear linear typing experience. With a high-pitched, neutral sound profile and a smooth push feel, this switch provides an exceptionally polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch stands out for its silent tactile feedback. Typing on these switches elicits a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, accompanied by a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. The U4's sound profile is whisper quiet, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a muted, low-pitched, and sharp typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gazzew U4 differ in terms of their composition and the resulting sound profiles. The Blue Sky features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. On the other hand, the U4 utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend for its top housing, referred to as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile. The softness of this blend contributes to a more mellow and resonant sound.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Blue Sky incorporates a nylon material known for its classic switch housing properties. Typing on switches with nylon bottoms produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Gazzew U4 utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend for its bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This blend, often referred to as "boba plastic," offers the same softness and richness, resulting in a deep and resonant sound.

While the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and Gazzew U4 differ, they both prioritize sound quality. The Blue Sky leverages polycarbonate in its top housing to create a sharp and crisp sound, while the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend, utilized in both the top and bottom housing, delivers a rich and deep sound profile. Despite the differences, these materials share a focus on enhancing sound characteristics, ensuring a satisfying auditory experience for keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are a few key differences to note. Firstly, in terms of actuation force, the Blue Sky requires 50 grams of force, while the U4 requires 43 grams. This means that the U4 has a lighter actuation force, making it easier to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches fall within the medium range of actuation force.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Blue Sky requires 60 grams of force to fully press the switch down, whereas the U4 requires slightly more at 62 grams. This indicates that the U4 has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Blue Sky.

When considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the U4 switch, as its lower actuation force allows for easier key triggering and potentially longer typing sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and prefer a stronger push may opt for the Blue Sky switch, which has a higher actuation force.

Overall, while there are differences in the actuation and bottom out forces between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, they both provide a medium typing experience. However, those seeking a lighter switch may lean towards the U4, while individuals looking for a slightly heavier typing experience may prefer the Blue Sky.

Travel distance

The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Blue Sky's 4.0mm travel distance falls within the more traditional range, providing a comfortable amount of depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the U4's 3.6 mm travel distance is slightly shallower, appealing to gamers and those seeking faster response times. This shorter travel distance can enhance responsiveness, making it a preferred choice for some. However, for individuals who enjoy a deeper key press, the longer travel distance of the Blue Sky may be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of key press depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is best known for its crystal clear linear typing experience. These switches offer a high-pitched sound profile when pressed, producing a sharp and crisp sound. The feel of the Blue Sky switches is described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience. The switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is best known for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump. When typing on these switches, there is a distinct and strong feedback intensity. The U4 switches have a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. The U4 also offers an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation.

In terms of sound, the Blue Sky switches have a high-pitched sound profile, while the U4 switches have a muted and low-pitched sound profile. The Blue Sky switches are suitable for those who prefer a sharp and crisp sound, while the U4 switches are ideal for those who want a softer and quieter typing experience.

In terms of feel, the Blue Sky switches offer a mild and approachable typing experience with a polished finish for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the U4 switches provide a sharp and distinct tactile bump, giving a high feedback intensity.

Taking into consideration all the available information, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch provide contrasting subjective qualities. The Blue Sky switch offers a high-pitched sound profile and a mild, polished feel, while the U4 switch provides a muted sound profile and a sharp, tactile feel. Depending on personal preferences, one can choose between a crisper and clearer typing experience with the Blue Sky switch or a quieter and more tactile typing experience with the U4 switch. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, it is recommended to consider these factors as well when making a choice.

Conclusion

In closing, when making a decision between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you favor a high-pitched and crisp sound profile, the Blue Sky is the way to go. It offers a sparkling sound and a smooth push feel, providing a crystal clear linear typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a muted and low-pitched sound, the U4 is a great choice. Its whisper quiet sound profile minimizes noise and offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.

When it comes to feel, the Blue Sky is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you enjoy switches with a more refined finish, the Blue Sky is a good fit. On the other hand, the U4 is known for its sharp tactile bump, providing a high feedback intensity. If you prefer a switch with a distinct tactile sensation with each keypress, the U4 will fulfill that requirement.

Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gazzew U4 comes down to personal preference. Consider your desired sound profile, be it high-pitched or muted, and your preferred feel, whether it's gentle and polished or sharp and tactile. By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more