Aflion Blush vs. Zuoce Bubblegum

Overview

When comparing the Aflion Blush and the Zuoce Bubblegum mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are distinct qualities that set them apart. The Aflion Blush is renowned for its smooth and snappy feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring, while also offering a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum, from Gold Grain, stands out with its striking colorways and a satisfyingly clacky typing experience. The Blush is characterized as 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Buttery', whereas the Bubblegum is labeled 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy'. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Blush Linear

Zuoce Bubblegum Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$3.10

$2.30 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the Zuoce Bubblegum, it is evident that they both use nylon for the bottom housing. This classic switch housing material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom housing material. However, the top housing material differs between the two switches, with the Blush featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Bubblegum using POM. The Blush's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the Bubblegum's POM top housing results in a deeper and relatively more muted sound.

In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Aflion Blush allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. This feature gives the Blush a unique visual appeal that the Zuoce Bubblegum, with its POM top housing, may not offer. However, when it comes to sound profiles, the Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a different, but equally pleasing sound compared to the Blush's polycarbonate top housing. Both materials have their own distinct qualities in terms of sound, with polycarbonate providing a clearer and resonant profile, while POM offers a deeper and more muted tone.

With the top housing material playing a significant role in the sound when pressing and releasing a key, the differences between the polycarbonate of the Aflion Blush and the POM of the Zuoce Bubblegum become apparent. The bottom housing material, being nylon for both switches, has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. While the Blush and Bubblegum may offer similar typing experiences in terms of the bottom housing material, the choice between polycarbonate and POM for the top housing will result in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences and tastes.

Weight

The Aflion Blush linear switch has a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it a medium-weight switch in terms of typing resistance. In contrast, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is lighter, with a bottom out force of 45 grams. The actuation force of the Blush is not specified, while the Bubblegum has an actuation force of 37 grams. The Blush is heavier in terms of bottoming out compared to the Bubblegum, which may appeal to users looking for a more solid typing experience. On the other hand, the lighter weight of the Bubblegum may be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. Overall, the difference in bottom out force between the two switches highlights the varying preferences among users when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Bubblegum has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Blush. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most traditional, the slight difference of 0.2 mm between the two may not be noticeable to all users. Gamers, who typically prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, may lean towards the Blush. On the other hand, those who enjoy a slightly deeper key press may find the Bubblegum more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel that each user is looking for in their mechanical keyboard.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blush linear switch offers a low-pitched and poppy sound signature, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone with a satisfyingly crisp and bright percussive element. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is known for its clacky sound, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a deeper or more percussive sound.

In terms of feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like and lively feel with a noticeable rebound when pressed. While the Blush focuses on a silky and seamless typing sensation, the Bubblegum delivers a more energetic and responsive typing experience.

Overall, both the Aflion Blush and Zuoce Bubblegum linear switches offer unique and desirable qualities for keyboard enthusiasts. The Blush excels in providing a smooth, full, and snappy typing feel with a low-pitched sound signature, while the Bubblegum stands out for its clacky and bouncy typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the buttery smoothness of the Blush or the lively responsiveness of the Bubblegum to elevate their keyboarding experience. Ultimately, regardless of the choice, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with distinct characteristics from either switch.

Conclusion

In closing, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Blush linear switch or the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch, it's important to focus on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium bottom out force and a smooth, full, and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature, the Blush may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a satisfyingly clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel, the Bubblegum switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to test them out and see which one aligns best with your typing needs.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blush Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

Zuoce Bubblegum Linear

$3.10

$2.30 per 10

Learn more