Aflion Blush vs. HMX FJ400
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the HMX FJ400 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Blush and the HMX FJ400 stand out as two compelling options, both designed to provide a satisfying linear typing experience. The Aflion Blush is celebrated for its smooth and snappy feel, thanks to its unique longer two-stage spring and long pole design, which delivers a creamy and buttery typing sensation along with a low-pitched, poppy sound profile. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritize a responsive and tactile feedback in their typing. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400 offers a more balanced sound profile, providing a versatile experience that caters to a variety of preferences, making it the middle ground in HMX's Film switch lineup. While the Blush excels in its rich auditory and tactile characteristics, the FJ400 appeals to those seeking an all-around linear switch for diverse applications. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
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
The Aflion Blush and the HMX FJ400 utilize different materials for their top housings, which results in distinct sound profiles. The Blush features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharp, high-pitched, and crisper sound. This quality can be attributed to polycarbonate’s stiffness, which enhances resonance and clarity, making it particularly suitable for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the FJ400 employs a POM top housing that yields a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials can produce desirable audio characteristics, the difference in sound sharpness implies that users may prefer one over the other based on their auditory preferences.
On the other hand, both the Blush and the FJ400 share the same material for their bottom housing: nylon. As a classic switch housing material, nylon is recognized for its ability to absorb sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile that is duller and rounder. This similarity underscores that when users type on either switch, they will experience this similar resonance and depth of sound due to the nylon material common in both products. The combined effect of different top housings means that while they may share bottom characteristics, the overall auditory experience will remain distinct.
Ultimately, the differences in the top housing materials will influence the tactile experience more acutely when the key is released, while the nylon bottom housing ensures a consistently rich sound foundation in both switches. The Blush’s crispness from its polycarbonate top provides a sharply defined auditory exit, while the muted responses of the FJ400’s POM top creates a different type of satisfaction upon release. Regardless of the distinct sound profiles from the top housings, the users can expect a similar depth and fullness from the nylon bottom, illustrating how the unique attributes of each material conjoin in crafting the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Blush linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, there are noteworthy differences in their actuation force while their bottom out forces are identical. The Blush switch does not have a specified actuation force, making it difficult to evaluate its responsiveness compared to the FJ400, which requires a moderate force of 50 grams to actuate. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 58 grams, indicating that users will experience a similar resistance when pressing the switches all the way down. In terms of weight preference, the Blush would be considered lighter due to its unspecified actuation force, while the FJ400, with its 50 grams actuation force, can be categorized as heavier. Individuals who favor a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may gravitate toward the Blush, whereas those who appreciate a more substantial feel will likely opt for the FJ400.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the HMX FJ400 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference indicates that the Blush switch may provide a more responsive feel, appealing to gamers and those who appreciate quicker actuation for faster response times. In contrast, the FJ400's longer travel distance could be preferable for users who favor a deeper, more substantial keystroke, offering a more pronounced typing experience. Thus, while both switches serve distinct preferences—responsiveness versus depth—the Blush allows for swifter actuation due to its shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm.
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 HMX FJ400 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the FJ400 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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Blush linear switch produces a low-pitched, bass-heavy tone that offers a satisfying and mellow auditory experience. This sound profile is characterized by its poppy signature, which adds a unique auditory signature to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400 linear switch presents a balanced sound profile. While the specific tonal descriptors for the FJ400 are not available, its balanced quality suggests that it strikes a middle ground, making it appropriate for users seeking a more subdued auditory experience without sacrificing clarity.
When it comes to feel, the Blush switch excels with its creamy, silky, and buttery characteristics. This switch delivers an impressively smooth typing experience thanks to its longer, two-stage spring and heightened action, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. This results in a typing experience that is fluid and free from any noticeable resistance. In contrast, the feel of the FJ400 is not clearly defined in the information provided, leaving its specific tactile qualities unknown.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blush linear switch stands out with its bass-heavy sound and exceptionally smooth typing feel, making it an attractive option for those who enjoy a richer auditory experience paired with a high-quality tactile sensation. The HMX FJ400, while not explicitly detailed in terms of sound and feel, offers a balanced sound profile that can appeal to users wanting a more even-tempered experience. For newcomers, choosing between these switches will hinge on personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback, with both switches likely providing unique yet enjoyable typing experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experience you're seeking. If you're looking for a keyboard switch that provides a uniquely smooth and satisfying typing feel, the Blush is an excellent choice. Its creamy, silky, and buttery characteristics create a luxurious typing experience that feels effortless and enjoyable, making it particularly appealing for those who spend long hours typing or gaming. Additionally, the low-pitched sound signature of the Blush adds to its charm, offering a more mellow auditory experience that can be pleasing in quieter environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced sound profile without the distinct character of the Blush, the HMX FJ400 might be the better option for you. It serves as a middle ground, providing a solid performance suitable for various tasks, from work to casual gaming, without overwhelming your senses. Its understated qualities make it ideal for users who seek a straightforward and reliable switch without the bells and whistles. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preferences regarding feel, sound, and the type of typing experience you desire.
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