Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Aflion Blush
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Aflion Blush switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Aflion Blush are two notable options to consider. The Baby Raccoon is renowned for its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp typing experience, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. This unique feature gives the Baby Raccoon linear switch a distinct "marbley" feel. On the other hand, the Blush switch from Aflion stands out as one of their finest linear offerings, boasting a smooth and snappy typinng experience, courtesy of its longer, two-stage spring. Additionally, the long pole of the Blush switch lends itself to a delightful poppy sound signature. While these general characteristics provide a glimpse into the differences between the two switches, let's delve deeper into their specifics to help you make an informed decision about the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Aflion Blush are identical in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in the top housing, which generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced aesthetics, particularly when paired with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and visual effects when using these switches.
However, the housing materials differ when it comes to the bottom housing. The Baby Raccoon employs a nylon bottom housing, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. Similarly, the Aflion Blush also incorporates a nylon bottom housing for similar acoustic effects. Therefore, users can enjoy a similar typing experience with both switches due to the nylon bottom housing's impact on the sound profile.
When using a switch with different top and bottom housings, it is important to consider the qualities each housing material brings to the overall experience. While both switches have the same polycarbonate top housing, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the sound when releasing a key is primarily influenced by the top housing. Therefore, users can expect some variation in key feel and reverb depending on whether they are pressing down or releasing a key, as the qualities of the housing materials are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Aflion Blush linear switch, there are both similarities and differences to consider. Starting with the actuation force, the Baby Raccoon requires 55 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the specific actuation force of the Blush is unavailable. However, both switches fall under the category of medium actuation force. This means that users can expect a fairly balanced and responsive typing experience from either switch, without requiring excessive force to register a key press.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Baby Raccoon has a bottom out force of 63 grams, slightly heavier than its actuation force. On the other hand, the Blush has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is lighter than the Baby Raccoon. This implies that while typing, users may experience a slightly more substantial feel with the Baby Raccoon due to the higher bottom out force. However, it's worth noting that the difference in bottom out force between the two switches is relatively marginal.
Considering the significance of weight in switch selection, it's essential to mention that those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Blush. Its lower bottom out force can allow for extended typing sessions without causing excessive fatigue. On the contrary, if individuals prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, they might opt for the Baby Raccoon with its slightly heavier bottom out force.
Overall, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon and Aflion Blush linear switches offer a medium actuation force, providing users with a balanced and responsive typing experience. While the exact actuation force of the Blush remains unknown, the similar medium classification suggests that users can expect similar actuation results from both switches. However, there is a slight difference in their bottom out forces, with the Baby Raccoon being slightly heavier than its counterpart, the Blush.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Aflion Blush linear switch both have different travel distances. The Baby Raccoon has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Blush has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, both switches fall within the range of what is commonly found, with 4.0 mm being the most typical and 3.0 mm being the most shallow. However, the shorter travel distance of the Blush may be preferred by gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and satisfying key press may opt for the Baby Raccoon with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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 Gateron Baby Raccoon is known for its resonant and marbly characteristics. Typing on this switch will give you a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. It can be likened to tapping on a solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Aflion Blush has a low-pitched sound profile, which means it offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches will provide distinct sound experiences, with the Baby Raccoon being resonant and marbly, while the Blush offers a smoother and mellower sound.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Aflion Blush offer creamy typing experiences. This means that they provide a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. This can either be due to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used in the switch. The keys on both switches will glide with ease, giving you a seamless and effortless typing experience. Additionally, the Baby Raccoon is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, while the Blush is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. Both switches will give you a polished and refined feel, reducing friction and providing smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Aflion Blush switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon has a resonant and marbly sound signature, with a bright and crisp feel. It is characterized by its lengthened switch stems, which contribute to the overall experience. On the other hand, the Blush has a low-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Its longer, two-stage spring ensures a smooth, full, and snappy typing feel. Both switches offer creamy and polished sensations, with the keys gliding effortlessly. While they have their own unique attributes, if you are looking for a similar smooth and buttery typing experience, either switch would yield comparable results.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a bright sound signature and a refreshingly crisp typing feel, then the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is the one for you. With its lengthened switch stems, these switches offer a unique "marbley" sensation, comparable to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of billiard balls colliding. Additionally, the Baby Raccoon provides a resonant and high-pitched sound profile. As for the feel, the Baby Raccoon offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience, allowing for smooth and buttery keystrokes with an elastic feedback sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, full, and snappy typing feel, combined with a poppy sound signature, then the Aflion Blush linear switch is the one to consider. Its longer, two-stage spring contributes to an impressively smooth typing experience, while the long pole of the switch provides a distinctive poppy sound. Described as creamy, silky, and buttery, the Blush offers a seamless and uniform typing sensation with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Aflion Blush linear switches depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Both switches offer medium bottom out force, making them suitable for a wide range of users. Whether you seek a bright and resonant typing experience with a "marbley" feel or a smooth and full typing experience with a poppy sound, you can find the switch that best suits your needs.
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