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Kailh Berry vs. Aflion Blush

An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Aflion Blush switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options stand out: the Kailh Berry and the Aflion Blush. The Berry is best known for its linear switch design that offers a hefty typing experience. With a springy type feel and a chalk-like texture, this switch provides a unique and satisfying typing experience. In terms of sound profile, the Berry produces a fairly deep and low-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Blush from Aflion is hailed as their best linear offering. The Blush features a longer, two-stage spring that results in an impressively smooth, full, and snappy type feel. Additionally, its long pole contributes to a poppy sound signature. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', and 'Buttery', the Blush switch offers a distinct and luxurious typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

N/A

Actuation force

N/A

Bottom-out force

70g

Bottom-out force

58g

Pre-travel

1.70 mm

Pre-travel

N/A

Total travel

3.60 mm

Total travel

3.30 mm

Factory lubed

No

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

Plate (3-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

Dual-stage stainless steel spring

Housing materials

The Kailh Berry and the Aflion Blush have similar housing materials and therefore, produce similar results in terms of sound profile. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The transparent nature of polycarbonate enables these switches to effectively showcase RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing aspect to their design. This material also contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile due to its stiffness. Hence, both the Berry and the Blush offer a satisfying auditory experience for users.

However, where these switches slightly differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Berry incorporates a nylon bottom housing, while the Blush also opts for the same material. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Its softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both the Berry and the Blush benefit from nylon's acoustic qualities, providing users with a more satisfying typing experience in terms of sound.

When it comes to the impact on sound and feel, the housing materials play a significant role. While the sound and feel during bottom-out are influenced by the bottom housing, the sound when releasing a key is more affected by the top housing. With this in mind, both the Berry and the Blush achieve the desired auditory effects through their combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials. These switches offer users the opportunity to experience a mixture of sharp and crisp sounds upon pressing down keys, as well as a deeper, fuller sound when releasing them.

In conclusion, the Kailh Berry and the Aflion Blush share similar housing materials, with polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings. Both switches produce similar results with their clear and resonant sound profiles, thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate in the top housing. Furthermore, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience during typing. While the housing materials distribute the qualities of each material differently, both the Berry and the Blush ensure a satisfying auditory experience for users, whether pressing keys or releasing them.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Aflion Blush linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. Firstly, it is important to note that the actuation force of both switches is unavailable, meaning the exact force required to trigger a keystroke is unknown for both. However, the Berry switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy, while the Blush switch has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 58 grams, categorized as medium.

Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Blush switch more appealing as it requires less force to bottom out. This can be advantageous for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, for individuals who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Berry switch with its heavier bottom out force may be the preferred choice.

Despite the lack of information regarding the actuation force, it can be inferred that both switches would provide a similar actuation experience, as the force required to trigger a keystroke is not specified for either switch. Therefore, if the actuation force is a crucial factor, it may be challenging to distinguish between these two switches, as the necessary information is not available.

Ultimately, individuals searching for a lighter switch may opt for the Aflion Blush linear switch due to its lighter bottom out force, while those seeking a heavier typing experience may lean towards the Kailh Berry linear switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force. However, without knowledge of the actuation forces, it becomes difficult to fully compare and contrast these two switches in terms of actuation feel.

Travel distance

The Kailh Berry linear switch and the Aflion Blush linear switch have different travel distances. The Berry has a travel distance of 3.6mm, while the Blush has a travel distance of 3.3mm. In this case, the Blush has a shorter travel distance compared to the Berry. However, both switches still fall within the range of shorter travel distances. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. So, if you are looking for a switch that offers a more responsive feel, the Blush may be the better choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt and prefer a switch with more depth. In this case, the Berry with its longer travel distance would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on personal preference and the desired typing 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 Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 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, both the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Aflion Blush linear switch are described as having a low-pitched sound profile. This means that they offer a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. However, the Berry switches are also described as being "bassy," which suggests a more pronounced and bass-heavy sound, while the Blush switches do not have this specific descriptor. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switches are described as having a textured typing experience. This means that they have noticeable friction when pressed, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Blush linear switches are described as creamy, silky, and buttery. These terms indicate that the Blush switches offer an exceptionally smooth and fluid typing experience, with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. It's like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, as they melt into each keystroke.

Based on the available information, it can be concluded that both the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Aflion Blush linear switch offer unique subjective qualities. The Berry switches provide a springy and chalk-like texture, along with a deep and potentially bass-heavy sound profile. On the other hand, the Blush switches offer an impressively smooth, full, and snappy type feel, with a poppy sound signature. While they differ in terms of feel and sound, both switches deliver a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. If you enjoy a more textured feel and deep sound, the Berry switches would be a great choice. If you prefer a creamy and silky smooth feel with a poppy sound, the Blush switches will provide similar results. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a hefty typing experience and deep sound profile, the Kailh Berry linear switch is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, it provides a medium-heavy feel that some users prefer. The Berry switch has a springy type feel and a chalk-like texture when typing on it. In terms of sound, it is low-pitched and bassy, offering a mellow and bass-heavy tone.

On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature, the Aflion Blush linear switch is worth considering. Its bottom out force of 58 grams offers a medium feel that many users find comfortable. The Blush switch features a longer, two-stage spring that enhances its smoothness and fullness, making each keystroke feel impressive. In terms of sound, it is also low-pitched, providing a mellow tone.

Ultimately, your preference between the Kailh Berry and Aflion Blush linear switches will depend on the type of typing experience you desire. If you prefer a hefty and textured feel with a deep sound profile, the Berry switch is a suitable choice. However, if you prioritize a smooth and snappy feel with a poppy sound, the Blush switch is the way to go. Consider what factors are most important to you and choose the switch that aligns with your preferences.

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