Aflion Blue Sky vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choices can be overwhelming, but two standout options are the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX Vintage Citrus, both of which fall into the linear switch category. The Aflion Blue Sky is renowned for its long pole stem design, offering a crystal-clear linear typing experience characterized by its polished push feel and a sparkling sound profile that elevates the typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus is specifically engineered for gamers, excelling with an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm, perfect for rapid-fire inputs. This switch features a bright, clacky sound profile while also providing a wonderfully smooth push feel. While the Blue Sky caters to those seeking a refined yet vibrant typing experience, the Vintage Citrus is tailored for those in need of speed and responsiveness in their gaming endeavors. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
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-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches, it becomes evident that they utilize different top housing materials, which significantly influences the overall sound profile and typing experience. The Aflion Blue Sky features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer properties. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus utilizes a nylon top housing, which tends to absorb more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This distinction is crucial for users who prioritize sound clarity or warmth in their typing experience. While both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience, their differing top housing materials lead to contrasting acoustic characteristics.
Moving to the bottom housing, both the Aflion Blue Sky and HMX Vintage Citrus have nylon materials. This creates a commonality between the two switches. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile that resonates throughout the entire switch. As a result, while the Vintage Citrus has the advantage of a softer top housing that enhances its deeper sound, the Blue Sky’s bottom housing complements its sharper top by providing a fuller tone during bottoming out, demonstrating that the blend of materials in each switch plays a pivotal role in shaping the auditory experience. Given that both switches share a nylon bottom housing, users can expect similar qualities in terms of sound absorption and tactile feedback from this particular section of the switches.
In summary, the distinct materials used for the top housing of the Aflion Blue Sky and HMX Vintage Citrus switches contribute significantly to their differing auditory profiles, while their shared nylon bottom housing creates a certain harmony in sound quality. Users looking for a brighter and more resonant sound may gravitate towards the Aflion Blue Sky, while those who prefer a warmer and fuller auditory experience may lean towards the HMX Vintage Citrus. Overall, the development of unique sound profiles based on the interaction of the materials in these switches emphasizes the importance of understanding how both the top and bottom housings influence overall performance and sound in mechanical switches.
Weight
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch showcase some interesting differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Blue Sky features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Vintage Citrus has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the Blue Sky switch requires slightly more force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Vintage Citrus. As such, the Blue Sky can offer a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier feel during use, making it suitable for users who enjoy a stronger tactile feedback. Conversely, the Vintage Citrus, with its lower forces, is more suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, as it allows for easier keystrokes and minimal fatigue. Overall, the HMX Vintage Citrus is the lighter option, while the Aflion Blue Sky is heavier.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Aflion Blue Sky features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Vintage Citrus has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This difference means that the Blue Sky switch will provide a more pronounced keypress feel, appealing to users who prefer a deeper, more tactile experience. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus, with its shallower 3 mm travel distance, caters to those who favor quicker response times and a more rapid actuation, which is often sought after by gamers. Consequently, individuals looking for a more responsive feel would likely gravitate towards the Vintage Citrus, whereas those valuing a fuller keypress might prefer the Blue Sky.
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 Vintage Citrus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vintage Citrus for $2.79.
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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blue Sky switch delivers a high-pitched and neutral sound profile, combining sharp and crisp auditory feedback with a balanced acoustic quality that caters to a wide range of preferences. This makes it suitable for both casual and serious typists, whether they are using it in a quiet office setting or at home. On the other hand, details on the sound profile of the HMX Vintage Citrus switch, which is touted for its bright and clacky characteristics, suggest that it caters more toward gamers who enjoy an energetic and lively auditory experience during rapid keystrokes. The difference in tonal quality implies that users looking for a vibrant sound may lean toward the Vintage Citrus, while those seeking a more subdued and versatile profile might prefer the Blue Sky.
In terms of feel, the Blue Sky switch excels with its mild and polished characteristics, providing a gentle typing experience that appeals to a broad audience. This means it’s approachable for beginners and those who prefer a soft touch without any sharp feedback. The polished finish ensures that the keypress is smooth, resulting in less friction and an enjoyable typing experience. Unfortunately, there is no specific description available for the feel of the Vintage Citrus switch, but considering its design for rapid-fire gaming inputs, one can speculate that it may possess a unique tactile quality that also allows for fast and efficient typing.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch may both offer a smooth push feel, their sound profiles and intended usage serve distinct purposes. The Blue Sky leans toward a softer, more refined acoustics suitable for daily tasks, while the Vintage Citrus targets gamers who thrive on a more pronounced and lively sound. Users looking for similar experiences may find it necessary to choose a switch that aligns well with their preferences for sound and typing feel. Each switch possesses qualities that cater to different audiences, ensuring a robust selection for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch ultimately depends on your typing or gaming needs and preferences. If you value a balanced typing experience with a medium bottom out force and appreciate a high-pitched or neutral sound profile, the Blue Sky switches are likely your best option. Their long pole stem contributes to a smooth and polished feel, making them particularly appealing for general typing, office work, or if you simply enjoy a classic, reliable linear switch. On the other hand, if you’re a gamer seeking rapid response times and an exceptionally low actuation force, the Vintage Citrus linear switch would be more suitable. Its design prioritizes speed, making it perfect for fast-paced gaming scenarios where quick inputs are essential. Additionally, the bright and clacky sound profile can enhance the gaming experience, providing satisfying auditory feedback. Thus, your choice should hinge on whether you lean towards a more versatile switch like the Blue Sky for an all-around typing experience or the Vintage Citrus if you are focused on maximizing your gaming performance.
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