Aflion Blush vs. Gateron CM
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Gateron CM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that come to mind are the Aflion Blush and the Gateron CM. The Blush switch from Aflion is highly regarded for its smooth and snappy typing experience. With its longer, two-stage spring and long pole, this linear switch provides an impressive fullness and a satisfying poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron CM switches offer a unique feature with their full nylon housing, deviating from the traditional polycarbonate housing. This results in a richer, deeper sound signature. Additionally, the CM switches come with an impeccable factory lube job, ensuring an effortless and smooth typing journey. The lengthened, dual-staged spring of the CM switches also adds a bouncy typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities and offer a range of appealing characteristics. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the Gateron CM switches differ in terms of the materials used. The Blush features a polycarbonate top housing, while the CM utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the CM generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Blush and the CM switches make use of nylon. This material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, regardless of whether you choose the Blush or the CM, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the sound profile generated by the bottom housing.
It's important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switches. When pressing down on the switches, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when you release a key. Therefore, the choice between the Blush and the CM will depend on whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile or a deeper and fuller one. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, there are a few key differences. The actuation force of the Blush switch is unavailable, whereas the CM switch has an actuation force of 55 grams. This suggests that the CM switch may be slightly easier to trigger a keystroke with compared to the Blush switch, assuming the Blush switch has a higher actuation force.
However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Blush switch has a force of 58 grams, while the CM switch has a force of 63.5 grams. This means that the CM switch requires a slightly heavier press in order to fully bottom out the key compared to the Blush switch.
In terms of weight, the lighter option would be the switch with the lower actuation force, which is assumed to be the CM switch at 55 grams. This lighter actuation force may be preferable for users who type for longer periods of time or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier force, which is the bottom out force, belongs to the CM switch at 63.5 grams. This heavier force may be favored by individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience.
Overall, while the actuation force of the Blush switch remains unknown, the comparison of their bottom out forces shows that the Blush switch is lighter at 58 grams, while the CM switch is heavier at 63.5 grams. Therefore, if one desires a lighter typing experience, the Blush switch may provide similar results, while those seeking a heavier feel may prefer the CM switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, we can see that the Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the CM has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, indicating that they are designed for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. Gamers, in particular, may favor these switches as the shorter travel distance allows for faster response times. However, it is important to note that while the Blush offers a shorter travel distance, some individuals may find it too abrupt. On the other hand, the CM with its longer travel distance may provide a deeper and more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer more substantial key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for either a quicker, responsive feel or a more deliberate, hearty depth.
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 CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 produces a low-pitched sound that is bass-heavy and mellow in tone. This creates a satisfying and mellow sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a bassy sound profile with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It also has a thocky sound, which produces a deep and satisfying "thud" when the key is pressed and released. Both switches offer similar low-pitched sound characteristics, but the CM switch provides a deeper and richer sound due to its full nylon housing. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. This is due to its smooth and buttery keystroke, which feels like gliding your fingers across the keys effortlessly. The switch provides a seamless and uniform typing sensation with minimal resistance. Similarly, the Gateron CM linear switch also offers a buttery and polished typing experience. It has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The CM switch is described as giving a sleek typing experience with a creamy and frictionless sensation. Both switches provide a smooth and effortless typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches provide a mellow, low-pitched sound profile, although the CM switch offers a deeper and richer sound due to its nylon housing. In terms of feel, both switches offer a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance. While they may have slight differences in sound and feel, those differences are subtle, and users can expect similar results from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blush and Gateron CM switches will come down to personal preference and the specific features desired in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a low-pitched sound profile that offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, then the Blush may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a deeper, richer sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range and a satisfying "thocky" sound, then the CM switch might be more suitable.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience. The Blush switch is described as creamy and silky, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Similarly, the CM switch is described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Additionally, considering the bottom out force, the Blush has a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, while the CM has a slightly heavier medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This slight difference in force may affect the tactile feedback and typing experience, so it's essential to consider your personal preference for key resistance.
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Blush and Gateron CM linear switches, take into account your sound and feel preferences, as well as the slight difference in bottom out force. Ultimately, both switches provide impressive smoothness, but the Blush offers a poppy sound signature and a medium bottom out force, while the CM delivers a richer, deeper sound signature with a slightly heavier bottom out force.
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