Aflion Blue Sky vs. Gazzew U4Tx

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gazzew U4Tx are two popular options with distinct features. The Blue Sky is a linear switch, known for its crystal clear typing experience. With a long pole stem, it offers an exquisitely smooth push feel and a sparkling sound profile. On the other hand, the U4Tx is a tactile switch that marries the best of both worlds. It provides a refined sound profile, with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out. Each key press on the U4Tx offers a sharp, satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious typing experience. While these brief descriptions provide a general idea of what to expect from each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gazzew U4Tx, one key difference lies in their top housings. The Blue Sky features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity in the sound produced. Moreover, the use of translucent polycarbonate in the top housing allows for the utilization of RGB lighting, making it visually appealing. In contrast, the U4Tx boasts a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also referred to as "boba plastic." This unique plastic blend provides a rich and deep sound profile, largely due to its softness. While the Blue Sky emphasizes clarity, the U4Tx focuses on achieving a fuller and more resonant sound.

In terms of their bottom housings, the Blue Sky employs a nylon material, which is widely regarded as a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This is attributed to nylon's inherent softness, which allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. Consequently, a switch with a nylon bottom housing produces a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the U4Tx utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend for its bottom housing, providing a similarly rich and deep sound profile. This "boba plastic" blend brings softness to the bottom housing, contributing to the overall sound experience.

When considering switches with different top and bottom housings, it is essential to note where the qualities of each housing material come into play. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Since the Blue Sky has a nylon bottom housing, it will deliver a deeper and fuller sound during pressing motions. Conversely, the top housing has a more pronounced impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the polycarbonate top housing of the Blue Sky will enhance the sound when the key is let go, providing a sharper and higher-pitched profile. Similarly, the U4Tx's Gazzew blend top housing will contribute to the rich and deep sound experienced upon key release. Overall, while the materials used in the top and bottom housings may differ, both switches aim to deliver pleasing and unique sound profiles.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are notable similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Blue Sky linear switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range. On the other hand, the U4Tx tactile switch's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare. However, it has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which falls in the medium-heavy category.

Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Blue Sky switch. The lighter actuation force allows for extended typing periods, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals seeking a more pronounced push and a substantial typing experience may opt for the U4Tx switch due to its heavier bottom out force.

While the actuation force of the U4Tx switch is unknown, it is important to note that both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of bottom out force. This means that users can expect similar outcomes in terms of the force required to press down fully on the keyboard, providing a satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences, with the Blue Sky switch offering a slightly lighter experience and the U4Tx switch providing a heavier and more substantial typing feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is clear that the Blue Sky has a shorter travel distance of 4 mm, while the U4Tx has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. 4.0mm is the most traditional travel distance, providing a balance between responsiveness and depth. On the other hand, 3.6 mm is slightly shallower and may be preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance of the U4Tx to be too abrupt, and may prefer the 4 mm travel distance of the Blue Sky for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is known for its crystal clear linear typing experience. It offers a high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This makes it suitable for those who prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile. In terms of feel, the Blue Sky switch provides a mild and approachable typing experience. It has a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction.

On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch combines the best of both worlds. It offers a cleaner and refined sound profile, characterized by a deep and resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet stealth when topping out. The U4Tx provides a bassy sound profile with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches.

In terms of feel, the U4Tx provides a sharp tactile bump with high feedback intensity. This tactile bump can be distinctly felt with each keypress, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.

In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a high-pitched sound profile and a mild, polished feel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a bassy sound profile and a sharp, tactile feel. Both switches provide unique qualities and a luxurious typing experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of the switches can be influenced by factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. Overall, if you prefer a high-pitched sound and a more gentle typing experience, the Blue Sky switch would be a great choice. If you prefer a bassy sound and a sharp tactile feel, the U4Tx switch would be the ideal option.

Conclusion

To conclude, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a high-pitched, neutral sound profile, then the Aflion Blue Sky switches would be an excellent choice. With their long pole stem, these switches provide a crystal clear linear typing experience and offer an exquisitely smooth push feel. The Blue Sky switches also have a mild and polished feel, making them approachable to most typists.

On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deep, rich sound profile, then the Gazzew U4Tx switches would be the perfect fit. These switches marry the best of both worlds, combining the deep, resonant "thock" of the U4T when bottoming out with the whisper-quiet stealth of the U4 when topping out. Each press will provide a sharp, satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious typing experience that's as acoustically pleasing as it is tactile.

Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Blue Sky and Gazzew U4Tx switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. Whether you prioritize a linear or tactile switch, a high-pitched or bassy sound profile, or a mild or sharp feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.

In the end, it's important to consider what factors are most important to you and try out different switches to find the perfect fit for your keyboard setup. Whether you choose the Aflion Blue Sky or Gazzew U4Tx switches, you can expect a high-quality switch that will elevate your typing experience to new heights.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blue Sky Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more