Aflion Blush vs. Gateron Box CJ
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Gateron Box CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blush and the Gateron Box CJ mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note that both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Aflion Blush is renowned for its smooth, full, and snappy feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring and long pole, resulting in a poppy sound signature. This linear switch is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Buttery', making it a popular choice for those who prioritize a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Box CJ combines the CJ lineage features with the rapid response of speed switches, providing typists with a higher-pitched clack and an incredibly smooth push feel. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Chirpy', the Box CJ allows for customization of lubrication to meet individual preferences. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Blush and the Gateron Box CJ feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of the plastic. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. The similarities in the top housing materials of these two switches suggest that users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetics when using either the Blush or the Box CJ.
On the other hand, the Blush utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile as the softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing. Similarly, the Box CJ also features a nylon bottom housing, which complements the sound profile created by the polycarbonate top housing. The use of different housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches allows for a balance of qualities that influence both the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, as well as the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, while both the Aflion Blush and the Gateron Box CJ share the use of polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound profile, they differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Blush's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Box CJ's nylon bottom housing absorbs sound for a duller and rounder sound. The combination of these housing materials in each switch results in a unique typing experience that balances different sound qualities based on the top and bottom of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Box CJ linear switch, it is evident that the Box CJ is the lighter of the two. The Blush has an actuation force of None grams, making it great for those who prefer a feather-light typing experience. On the other hand, the Box CJ boasts an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a slightly more substantial push feel. Both switches have a bottom out force of around 57-58 grams, indicating a medium to medium-light resistance when fully pressed. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of how it feels when the key is fully depressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with some opting for the lighter actuation force of the Blush and others preferring the slightly heavier feel of the Box CJ for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Box CJ linear switch, it is clear that the Blush has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Box CJ's 4 mm. The Blush is ideal for those who prefer a more responsive key press, such as gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Box CJ offers a longer travel distance for those who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0mm being the most common. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Box CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box CJ for $5.35.
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 Aflion Blush linear switch offers a low-pitched and mellow tone, providing a more bass-heavy sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch produces a clacky and sharp sound when pressed, with higher-pitched clacks and a crisp, bright, and percussive sound. The Blush switch may appeal to those who prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, while the Box CJ switch is more suited for those who enjoy a louder and more tactile typing sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Blush linear switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience. Its longer, two-stage spring provides a full and snappy feel, making each keystroke feel seamless and uniform. On the other hand, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offers a mild typing experience, with a gentle and approachable feel that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. Typists can expect an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, providing a satisfying typing sensation.
Overall, the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Blush switch excels in providing a quiet and smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Box CJ switch delights typists with a louder and more tactile typing sound and a mild but satisfying feel. Both switches are a great choice for enthusiasts looking for a unique and enjoyable typing experience, with each offering its own set of subjective qualities to enhance the overall typing sensation.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Blush linear switch or the Gateron Box CJ linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a smooth, snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature, then the Blush switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and value rapid response speed with higher-pitched clacks, then the Box CJ switch could be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to test them out and determine which one best suits your typing preferences.
Mentioned in this article
