Aflion Blush vs. Kailh Box Mute Jade
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Kailh Box Mute Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Blush and the Kailh Box Mute Jade are two mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Blush is a linear switch that offers an impressively smooth and snappy typing experience. Its longer, two-stage spring provides a satisfyingly full and buttery feel, accompanied by a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch with a more subdued sound profile. It offers a crunchy feel and a quieter, though unmistakably clicky, sound. If you prefer a switch with a low-pitched and creamy typing experience, the Blush might be your best choice. However, if you are fond of the accented and crunchy feel of a clicky switch, while still desiring a more polished sound, the Box Mute Jade could be the ideal option for you. Now, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
75g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the Kailh Box Mute Jade have similar housing materials in terms of their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and visual aesthetics when using either the Blush or the Box Mute Jade.
However, where the switches differ is in their nylon bottom housings. The Blush features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, providing a similar effect of creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches benefit from the sound-absorbing qualities of nylon, enhancing the overall typing experience.
It's important to note that the qualities brought by the different housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switches. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction allows for a more nuanced typing experience and provides a balance between the two housing materials in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch, there are notable differences between them. The Blush has an actuation force of unavailable grams, making it hard to determine its specific lightness or heaviness. However, its bottom out force of 58 grams is considered medium. On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade switch has a higher actuation force of 75 grams, indicating a heavier push feel. Similarly, its bottom out force of 82 grams is also heavier compared to the Blush. For those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Blush may be a better choice. However, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience might gravitate towards the heavier actuation and bottom out forces offered by the Box Mute Jade. Overall, while the Blush offers a medium bottom out force and an unknown actuation force, the Box Mute Jade provides a heavier and more forceful typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch have different travel distances. The Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Box Mute Jade has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm.
In terms of travel distance, the Box Mute Jade is the longer option. It provides a deeper sense of key press and may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial depth when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Blush offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which can be beneficial for gamers looking for faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses and increased responsiveness.
Overall, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences and individual typing or gaming needs. If you prioritize a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Aflion Blush linear switch is a suitable option. However, if you prefer a switch with a longer travel distance for a more substantial feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch would be the better choice. Both switches offer their own advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing or gaming 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 Box Mute Jade comes in at $6.50 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 Aflion Blush linear switch offers a low-pitched tone. Low-pitched switches are known for their bass-heavy and mellow sound, creating a pleasant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a crunchy sound profile. This sound is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. The Box Mute Jade switch provides the satisfying clicky sound while maintaining a quieter volume compared to other clicky switches. It is important to note that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blush switch offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. With a smooth and buttery sensation, typing on these switches feels like effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys. The smoothness comes from the factory-applied lubrication or specific materials used in the switch. The overall feel of the Blush switch is exceptionally smooth, reducing resistance and providing a uniform typing sensation. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch is described as accented, stiff, and polished. The switch offers a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. The keys require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, providing a more tactile typing experience. The polished finish of the switch contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blush linear switch stands out for its smooth, snappy typing feel and poppy sound signature. It offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a luxurious and effortless sensation while typing. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch provides a crunchy feel and a quieter clicky sound profile. It offers a medium amount of tactility and requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. Both switches offer unique subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the smoothness and poppy sound of the Blush or the crunchy feel and subdued clickiness of the Box Mute Jade, you can achieve satisfying results depending on your personal preference.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch, you should consider your personal preferences for both sound and feel. If you value a smooth and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature, the Blush would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy the crunchy feel of a clicky switch with a more subdued sound profile, the Box Mute Jade would be a perfect fit. If you prefer a low-pitched sound with a creamy, silky, or buttery typing sensation, the Blush would be the ideal switch for you. Alternatively, if you prefer an accented, stiff, or polished feel, the Box Mute Jade would suit you better. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
