Aflion Blush vs. Bsun Chiikawa - 28g
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Aflion Blush and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switches presents an intriguing comparison. The Aflion Blush stands out for its impressive smoothness and snappy feedback, thanks in large part to its longer, two-stage spring and long pole design, resulting in a low-pitched, creamy sound signature that many typists find satisfying. This makes it a great option for users seeking a pleasant typing experience with a rich tactile feel. On the other hand, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g is characterized by its extremely light actuation force and bright sound profile, offering a crisp, high-pitched auditory response that many gamers and fast typists appreciate for its responsiveness and ease of keystrokes. Each switch excels in its unique performance aspects, catering to different preferences and needs; while the Blush provides a robust and satisfying typing experience, the Chiikawa shines in quick and nimble tasks. 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
28g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
34g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3X
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Blush and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a similar sonic profile characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate, being a relatively stiff plastic, enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing. The translucency of polycarbonate also allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making the switches visually striking. Given that both switches share this material in their top housing, users can expect a comparable acoustic performance and immersive visual experience when the switches are illuminated.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Aflion Blush and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g are made from nylon, a material known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Being a softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound than harder alternatives, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory response. This material choice means that both switches offer a complete range of sound characteristics: while the top housing provides crispness and brightness, the nylon bottom creates a warmth that complements the sound. This harmonious blend of materials ensures that users of either switch can enjoy a balanced and satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both the Aflion Blush and Bsun Chiikawa - 28g leads to a layered auditory experience where the roles of the top and bottom housings are distinctly felt. Pressing down on either switch will invoke the qualities of the nylon bottom housing, contributing to the bottom-out sound and feel, while releasing the key will showcase the polycarbonate top's clarity. Despite being constructed from the same materials, the distinct effects each housing has on the overall sound profile allows users to appreciate the nuanced differences and similarities when interacting with these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The Aflion Blush features an unspecified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 28g has a lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams. This makes the Chiikawa significantly lighter overall, appealing to users who prefer a gentler touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. With the actuation force of the Blush being unknown, we cannot directly compare that aspect, but the Chiikawa's lower bottom out force indicates a less strenuous experience overall. Thus, while the Blush offers a more substantial tactile feedback for those seeking a heavier feel, the Chiikawa caters to users desiring a lighter touch for comfort over long periods.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch, there is a noticeable difference between the two. The Aflion Blush features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is longer. For those who prioritize responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Blush may be more appealing as it allows for quicker key presses, ideal for gaming. Conversely, the Chiikawa's longer travel distance may provide a more robust and satisfying feeling for users who prefer a deeper, more traditional keystroke. Thus, the choice between these two switches ultimately lies in personal preference for either speed or depth in the 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 Bsun Chiikawa - 28g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Chiikawa - 28g for $3.29.
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, poppy sound signature that is pleasantly mellow yet pronounced. This characteristic is well-suited for typing in environments where a less intrusive sound is appreciated, while still providing auditory feedback that feels satisfying. In contrast, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switch is noted for its bright sound profile, which produces a crisp, high-pitched tone when typing. While the distinct sound quality of the Chiikawa might be more pronounced and attention-grabbing, it may not provide the full-bodied resonance of the Blush. Ultimately, if you're looking for a lower, bass-heavy sound versus a sharper and more acute tonal character, these two switches offer a different auditory experience that can affect your typing ambiance.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blush excels with its creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, which allows for a smooth transition from key to key. The combination of a longer spring provides a unique, snappy feel that enhances responsiveness, making it a joy for extended typing sessions. The Chiikawa - 28g, however, does not have detailed information available regarding its tactile feedback. Therefore, we cannot draw a clear comparison in this area. If a lighter actuation force is indeed a characteristic of the Chiikawa, it will likely present a different experience when typing, potentially favoring quick and efficient keystrokes without as much resistance.
In summary, the Aflion Blush and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switches each provide unique sound profiles and, to some extent, different typing experiences as well. The Blush is favored for its low-pitched sound and creamy feel, making it ideal for those who seek a more subdued yet satisfying auditory and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Chiikawa presents a bright sound, potentially offering a more responsive feel with its lighter actuation force. Depending on your specific preferences, both switches have the potential to deliver a pleasurable typing experience, albeit with distinct qualities that cater to different needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch should be guided by your typing preferences and the kind of experience you're seeking. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams and enjoy a smooth, creamy feel with a low-pitched sound, the Blush switch may be your best option. Its longer two-stage spring design contributes to a snappy and satisfying typing experience, making it ideal for both typing long documents and gaming sessions where tactile feedback is important. On the other hand, if you desire a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 34 grams, the Chiikawa - 28g is likely to be more suitable. Its bright sound profile and very responsive nature allow for quick keystrokes and an engaging typing experience, making it an excellent choice for fast-paced use or for those who prefer less physical effort when typing. Ultimately, your selection will hinge on whether you lean towards a richer, fuller typing experience with the Blush or a lighter, more agile feel with the Chiikawa - 28g.
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