Aflion Blush vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out: the Aflion Blush and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver. The Blush switch from Aflion is known for its impressive smoothness and snappy feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. The switch also offers a unique sound signature with its long pole, providing a poppy sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches from Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro lineup are designed specifically for gaming. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, these switches offer lightning-fast responsiveness, giving gamers a competitive advantage. Additionally, the G Pro Silver switches feature vibrant RGB lighting, enhanced by a frosted light diffuser, and a medium-high pitch for an exhilarating auditory element during gaming sessions. While these general pointers provide insight into the strengths of each switch, it's essential to delve deeper into their characteristics to make an informed decision about which switch is the best fit for individual preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing on these switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and lighting when using either the Blush or the G Pro 3.0 Silver.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches differ in material. The Blush incorporates a nylon bottom housing, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Consequently, nylon creates a duller and rounder sound, appealing to users who prefer a more muted typing experience. Therefore, users can expect a subtle difference in sound when bottoming out keys between the Blush and the G Pro 3.0 Silver.
It is worth noting that the qualities brought by the housing materials are distributed between the top and bottom of the switches. When pressing down on either the Blush or the G Pro 3.0 Silver, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will come from the bottom housing. On the other hand, the sound produced when letting go of a key will be influenced by the top housing. Thus, while the overall sound profile may be similar due to the shared polycarbonate top housing, users may notice a variance in the feel and sound when bottoming out or releasing keys between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, we can observe some differences. The Blush's actuation force is currently unavailable, making it difficult to determine how it compares to the G Pro 3.0 Silver's actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Blush requires a force of 58 grams, which is medium in terms of weight. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter actuation force, as it allows for longer typing periods and is suitable for those using the keyboard extensively at work or during extended gaming sessions. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be the lighter option with its 45 grams actuation force and 50 grams bottom out force. On the other hand, some users prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. These individuals may opt for options with heavier forces. Although we do not have the exact actuation force for the Blush, its medium 58 grams bottom out force suggests that it may provide a more substantial typing experience compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Aflion Blush linear switch. However, without the exact actuation force for the Blush, it is challenging to fully compare the two in terms of actuation force. Nevertheless, based on the available information, users seeking a lighter switch may find the G Pro 3.0 Silver more fitting for their needs, while those desiring a heavier and more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Blush.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, it is clear that there is a difference in the length of travel. The Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the more traditional 4 mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver. This shorter travel distance of the Blush can be advantageous for gamers who prefer faster response times, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel to their key presses may find the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness. Both options offer their own benefits, and users can expect similar results in terms of key activation and functionality.
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 G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 Blush is best described as having a low-pitched sound signature. This means that it offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is characterized as having a bassy sound profile with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, it is also described as low-pitched and thocky, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. It's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Blush and the G Pro 3.0 Silver offer a similar experience. They are both described as buttery and creamy switches, which means they provide a smooth and fluid typing experience. This smoothness enhances the overall typing feel and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Typing on these switches can be likened to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch offer slightly different subjective qualities in terms of sound. The Blush has a low-pitched sound signature, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver is bassy, low-pitched, and thocky. However, they both provide a similar feel, described as creamy and buttery switches that offer a smooth and fluid typing experience. Overall, both switches can provide an exceptional typing or gaming experience, depending on the user's preferences and the specific setup they are used in.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a smooth, full, and snappy typing feel, the Aflion Blush is a great choice. Its longer, two-stage spring and long pole provide an impressive typing experience. Additionally, the Blush has a low-pitched sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses. In terms of feel, the Blush is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prioritize gaming performance and lightning-fast responsiveness, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver is the switch for you. With a light bottom out force and a shorter travel distance, these switches offer exceptional gaming experience and a competitive advantage. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a low-pitched, bassy, and thocky sound profile, adding an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is described as buttery and creamy, providing a seamless and fluid keystroke experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blush and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver depends on your specific preferences and use cases. Whether you prioritize a smooth typing feel or gaming performance, both switches have their strengths. Consider your typing or gaming style, as well as the sound and feel you prefer, to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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