Aflion Blush vs. TTC Gold Brown
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the TTC Gold Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Blush, a linear switch, and the TTC Gold Brown, a tactile switch, offer unique experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Blush switch stands out with its longer, two-stage spring, which results in a smooth, full, and snappy typing feel. Additionally, its long pole provides a distinct poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Gold Browns are renowned for their balanced nature, featuring a satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. These switches emit a rounded sound profile that is softer compared to most switches, although not completely silent. The Blush switch falls under categories like 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', and 'Buttery'. Meanwhile, the Gold Brown switch falls under categories like 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Buttery', 'Accented', and 'Polished'. Both switches offer appealing qualities, but let's delve deeper into their characteristics to make an informed decision based on individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blush and TTC Gold Brown switches share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for the effective use of RGB lighting. Thus, both the Blush and Gold Brown switches offer similar sound characteristics and RGB capabilities due to their shared top housing material.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Blush switch features a nylon material, while the Gold Brown switch also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches are likely to provide a similar typing experience with regards to the sound and feel produced by their nylon bottom housing.
It's important to note that while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound profile when letting go of a key, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Thus, despite differences in their housing materials, the Blush and Gold Brown switches may still offer similar results in terms of the overall user experience and sound produced during typing, with the distinct contributions of the top and bottom housing materials distributed accordingly.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, we can see both similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Blush has an unavailable gram measurement, while the Gold Brown requires 55 grams of force. Although we do not know the exact measurement for the Blush, it is likely to be similar to the Gold Brown since both are classified as having a medium actuation force.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Blush requires 58 grams, while the Gold Brown is slightly heavier at 63 grams. It is worth noting that both switches fall within the medium category for bottom out force.
Considering the weight of these switches, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Blush, as it is likely to have a lighter actuation force compared to the Gold Brown. This lighter weight can be beneficial for those who require longer typing periods, such as those who use their keyboards at work or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Gold Brown, as it has a heavier bottom out force. This heavier force can provide a more tactile and satisfying typing experience.
Overall, while the specific actuation force for the Blush is unknown, it is likely to provide a similar result to the Gold Brown which has a measured 55-gram actuation force. Both switches offer a medium bottom out force, with the Blush being slightly lighter at 58 grams compared to the Gold Brown's 63 grams. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preferences for typing experience and the desired amount of force exerted while pressing the keys.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Gold Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Blush. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Gold Brown is more traditional, while the 3.3mm travel distance of the Blush is on the shorter side. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. So, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Blush with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, for those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying keystroke sensation, the Gold Brown with its longer travel distance might be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired typing or gaming 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 TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 Blush distinguishes itself with a low-pitched tone. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Gold Brown offers a neutral sound profile. It has a moderate sound, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so your overall experience may vary.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Blush is known for its creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. With a smooth and buttery feel, typing on these switches is like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The Gold Brown, on the other hand, offers a mild typing experience. It falls within the safe, middle-ground zone in terms of its characteristics. Additionally, it is accented, providing a noticeable amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Both switches are described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The Gold Brown is also polished, which means it has a refined finish and offers reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blush linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blush has a low-pitched sound profile and provides a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. Meanwhile, the Gold Brown has a neutral sound profile and offers a mild, accented, and polished typing experience. If you are looking for a smoother typing experience with a more noticeable tactile sensation, the Blush may be a better choice. However, if you prefer a balanced switch with a moderate sound and a gentle typing experience, the Gold Brown would be a suitable option. It is important to consider your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing experience when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, there are a few factors to consider. The Blush switch is best known for its impressively smooth and snappy typing feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. It also offers a poppy sound signature, making it a unique choice for those who enjoy a distinct auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gold Brown switch is praised for its balanced nature, with a slight satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. It also produces a rounded and softer sound profile.
In terms of sound, the Blush switch has a low-pitched tone, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. In contrast, the Gold Brown switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and users, whether beginner or advanced.
When it comes to feel, the Blush switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, offering a smooth and effortless typing sensation. This can be attributed to lubrication or specific materials used in the switch. On the other hand, the Gold Brown switch is characterized as mild, buttery, accented, and polished. It provides a more gentle typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Therefore, if you prioritize an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a poppy sound signature, the Blush switch is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a well-balanced tactile switch with a softer sound profile and a refined, polished feel, the Gold Brown switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, consider your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience when making your decision.
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