Aflion Blush vs. Kailh Box White
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Kailh Box White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Blush and Kailh Box White are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features and advantages. The Blush, a linear switch, is highly regarded for its smooth and snappy typing experience. Its two-stage spring and long pole result in a satisfyingly smooth and full feel, while also providing a distinctive poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Box White, a clicky switch, is known for its maximum audio feedback. With a "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and an accentuated tactility, this switch offers a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a more pronounced response. Both switches have their unique characteristics, catered to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the Kailh Box White both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing materials. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Due to its translucency, polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetics when using either the Blush or the Box White.
On the other hand, the Blush and the Box White differ in their bottom housing material. The Blush utilizes nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Box White also incorporates nylon for its bottom housing, providing users with a comparable sound experience. Thus, whether typing on the Blush or the Box White, individuals can expect a similar deep and fuller sound profile.
When it comes to the impact on sound and feel while using the switches, the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom housing. Pressing down on either switch will allow users to feel the characteristics of the bottom housing, which has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, when releasing a key, the top housing material will have more of an impact on the sound produced. Thus, both the Blush and the Box White offer a balanced combination of housing materials to provide users with a versatile typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Starting with the actuation force, the Blush's weight is unavailable, making it impossible to directly compare with the Box White's 50-gram actuation force. However, since both switches are labeled as medium in terms of bottom out force, it can be assumed that the actuation force of the Blush is likely to be similar to or lighter than the Box White.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Blush requires 58 grams of force, which again falls within the medium range. On the other hand, the Box White demands a slightly higher bottom out force of 60 grams. This suggests that the Box White offers a slightly stronger push feel compared to the Blush, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier switch.
Considering weight as a factor, some individuals may find it beneficial to opt for lighter switches like the Blush. A lighter actuation or bottom out force allows for extended typing sessions, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. However, for those who enjoy a more forceful and tactile typing experience, the Box White's slightly heavier forces would be a better choice.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Aflion Blush linear switch is unknown, it is likely to be similar to or lighter than the Kailh Box White clicky switch. The Blush has a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Box White requires 60 grams. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences, with the Blush offering a potentially lighter typing experience and the Box White providing a slightly heavier and more substantial feel.
Travel distance
When it comes to travel distance, the Aflion Blush linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Kailh Box White clicky switch has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Generally, the most traditional travel distance is 4.0 mm, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, nowadays, shorter travel distances are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel when pressing down on a key, the shorter option, which is the Aflion Blush, would be more suitable. On the other hand, some individuals find short travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a more substantial depth. For them, the Kailh Box White with its longer travel distance would be a better choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends 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 Box White comes in at $2.76 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
The Aflion Blush linear switch is best known for its smooth, full, and snappy type feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. The longer pole of this switch also provides a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is known for its maximum audio feedback. Typing on these switches produces a "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch, and there is an accented tactility felt while typing.
When it comes to sound, the Blush switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile. This means that it offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The Box White switch, on the other hand, has multiple sound descriptors. It is described as both resonant and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound. Additionally, it is described as crunchy, similar to the sound of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. However, it is 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 Blush switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery. These descriptors indicate a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a seamless and effortless sensation. The Box White switch, on the other hand, is described as polished. This suggests a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The polished switch reduces friction and provides smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blush linear switch and Kailh Box White clicky switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blush switch provides a low-pitched sound profile and a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the Box White switch offers a resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound, with a polished and smooth typing feel. If you prefer a low-pitched sound and a smooth typing experience, the Blush switch would be a great choice. However, if you desire maximum audio feedback and a tactile feel while typing, the Box White switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you desire a smooth and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature, the Blush switch might be the best choice for you. It offers a medium bottom out force of 58 grams and is described as creamy, silky, and buttery in terms of feel. On the other hand, if you prioritize maximum audio feedback and enjoy a higher-pitched, resonant sound profile with an accented tactility, the Box White switch is worth considering. It has a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and is described as polished in terms of feel. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to your personal preferences and typing experience preferences.
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