Aflion Blush vs. Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Aflion Blush, a linear switch, and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, a tactile switch. The Blush is celebrated for its smooth, full, and snappy feel due to its longer two-stage spring, along with a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Blue Pro stands out for its budget-friendly yet high-quality construction, offering a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile that is complemented by a creamy, tactile sensation. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial 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
20mm spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This material is particularly beneficial for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for better light transmission. However, despite both switches having the same top housing material, the unique design and construction of each switch may still result in slightly different sound profiles.
On the other hand, the Blush utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the V3 Cream Blue Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound of the switches. While both switches may have similar top housings, the variation in bottom housing materials can lead to distinct tactile and auditory feedback when typing.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials in the Aflion Blush and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile and typing experience of mechanical switches. While both switches may share a similar polycarbonate top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials can result in unique sound profiles and typing experiences. Whether one prefers a sharper and crisper sound or a deeper and fuller sound, the choice between the Blush and the V3 Cream Blue Pro will ultimately come down to personal preference and typing style.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, it is clear that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in the typing experience. The Blush switch has a bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a medium level of resistance, while the V3 Cream Blue Pro switch offers a slightly lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light. The actuation force of the Blush is not specified, while the V3 Cream Blue Pro requires 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the V3 Cream Blue Pro, as it requires less force for both actuation and bottoming out. On the other hand, the Blush switch may appeal to those who enjoy a bit more resistance and a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of how far the key travels when pressed. The similarities in travel distance between the two switches suggest that users can expect consistent feedback and tactile feel regardless of which one they choose. Overall, the travel distance of 3.3 mm for both switches ensures a comfortable typing experience for those who prefer a medium-distance key press.
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 Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 offers a low-pitched, bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch provides a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile. Both switches deliver an audible feedback, but the Blush switch may offer a deeper and more relaxed sound compared to the livelier sound of the V3 Cream Blue Pro. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience with effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is characterized as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a tactile feedback that is prominent yet not overwhelming, along with a lively rebound and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience, but the Blush switch focuses on a silky sensation while the V3 Cream Blue Pro switch provides a more tactile and polished feel.
Overall, the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blush switch tends to provide a deeper and smoother sound with a creamy typing feel, while the V3 Cream Blue Pro switch delivers a livelier and more tactile sound with a polished typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can cater to different typing styles and preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a deeper sound and silky feel or a livelier sound and tactile feedback in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and snappy linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Aflion Blush would be a great choice. It offers a unique two-stage spring design that provides a satisfying typing experience with a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro would be a solid option. It offers a lively and audible feedback with a creamy tactile sensation, making it a budget-friendly choice for those seeking quality. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for linear or tactile switches and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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