Bsun Akashi vs. Aflion Blush
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Aflion Blush switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Akashi and Aflion Blush both stand out as top choices, with unique features that cater to different preferences. The Akashi is renowned for its UPE stem and hybrid housing combination, delivering a distinct sound profile that is both crisp and rich. Known for its tactile feedback and smoothness, it falls under categories like 'Clacky' and 'Silky', making it a versatile option for those who appreciate a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Blush is praised for its longer, two-stage spring design that offers a smooth and snappy feel, categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Buttery'. With a poppy sound signature, it appeals to users looking for a full and creamy typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to individual preference and typing style. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Aflion Blush offer distinct characteristics that affect the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Akashi features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Blush utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in top housing material results in a noticeable variance in sound when typing on the switches. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deep and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Therefore, in terms of bottom housing material, the Akashi and Blush offer a similar typing experience.
The choice of top housing material between the Akashi and Blush plays a significant role in determining the sound profile of the switches. The POM top housing of the Akashi creates a unique sound that is deeper and relatively muted, offering a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Blush produces a sharper and crisper sound, enhancing the overall typing feedback. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly useful for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing.
Overall, the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Aflion Blush showcase how different materials can impact the sound and feel of mechanical switches. While the Akashi's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, the Blush's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper typing experience. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing that results in a deep and fuller sound profile. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance of qualities in the overall typing feedback, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference for the type of sound and feel desired during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Aflion Blush linear switch, it is evident that the Akashi is lighter while the Blush is heavier. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a light switch. In contrast, the Blush's actuation force is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is considered medium. The Akashi provides a lighter typing experience, which is ideal for those who prefer typing for extended periods or engaging in long gaming sessions. However, the Blush offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, appealing to individuals who prefer switches with heavier forces. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and whether a lighter or heavier force is desired for the keyboard.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Akashi has a longer travel distance compared to the Blush. The Akashi's 3.7 mm travel distance provides a slightly deeper feel when typing compared to the Blush's 3.3 mm travel distance. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Blush with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing the keys may prefer the Akashi. Both switches offer slight variations in travel distance, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
The Aflion Blush has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blush for $4.07.
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 Bsun Akashi linear switch offers a clacky and percussive sound when pressed, thanks to its UPE stem and distinctive housing combo of POM top and nylon bottom. On the other hand, the Aflion Blush linear switch produces a lower-pitched, bass-heavy, and mellow tone due to its longer two-stage spring design. Both switches will provide unique auditory experiences, with the Akashi offering a brighter and crisper sound while the Blush gives a more deep and resonant tone.
When it comes to feel, both the Bsun Akashi and Aflion Blush switches provide smooth and buttery typing experiences. The Akashi switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press, offering a gliding sensation with reduced friction and fluid key travel. On the other hand, the Blush switch is also described as creamy and silky, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, the Blush switch is characterized as buttery, emphasizing its smooth and uniform keystroke experience. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and responsive typing feel, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Akashi linear switch and Aflion Blush linear switch have their own unique sound and feel characteristics, they both offer exceptional typing experiences. Whether you prefer the bright and crisp sound of the Akashi or the mellow and bass-heavy tone of the Blush, both switches provide smooth, buttery, and effortless typing sensations. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, as both options are designed to enhance your typing experience with their distinctive qualities.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Aflion Blush linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you value a lighter bottom out force, a bright and crisp sound profile, and a tactile feedback that is described as clacky and creamy or frictionless, the Akashi may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a smoother and snappier typing experience, and a low-pitched, creamy, or silky sound profile, the Blush switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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