Aflion Blush vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the TTC Gold Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Aflion Blush and the TTC Gold Red, both of which are linear switches. The Blush switch from Aflion is known for its impressively smooth and snappy type feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. Additionally, the long pole of the Blush switch provides a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Gold Red switches from TTC offer a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. These switches also boast a snappy sound profile that adds a modest touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. In terms of categorization, the Blush is described as low-pitched, creamy, silky, and buttery, while the Gold Red is categorized as thocky, low-pitched, neutral, mild, silky, subtle, and polished. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
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 Red switches share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the transparency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting in their setup, as it allows for the illumination to shine through. Therefore, users of both switches can expect similar sound characteristics and visual effects when it comes to the top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Aflion Blush and TTC Gold Red differ. The Blush features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gold Red also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound. Therefore, users of both switches can expect a satisfying sound response, but the specific tonal qualities may vary depending on the switch.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by each housing material are distributed differently between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. The softer nylon material absorbs more impact, resulting in a potentially more cushioned and tactile experience. On the flip side, when releasing a key, the impact of the top housing becomes more apparent in the sound produced. The stiffer polycarbonate material contributes to a crisper and more resonant sound when the key is released. Therefore, while the overall sound experience may be comparable between the Aflion Blush and TTC Gold Red, the specific tactile feedback and sound characteristics may vary based on the housing materials used.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, there are notable differences. The actuation force of the Blush is unavailable, whereas the Gold Red has an actuation force of 43 grams. This means that the Gold Red requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Blush. On the other hand, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blush is slightly heavier at 58 grams, while the Gold Red requires 50 grams of force.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Gold Red as its actuation force is lighter. This can be beneficial for individuals who need to type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. Conversely, those who desire a more substantial typing feel might prefer the Blush's heavier actuation force, providing them with a stronger push sensation.
It's important to note that since the actuation force for the Blush is unavailable, the actual comparison in terms of actuation force between the two switches cannot be accurately determined. However, based on the known information, it can be inferred that the Gold Red offers a lighter actuation force and a lighter bottom out force compared to the Blush.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the TTC Gold Red linear switch's travel distance of 4 mm. The Blush switch falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which is preferred by gamers for its faster response times. On the other hand, the Gold Red switch offers a longer travel distance, providing a deeper and more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key. This can be preferable for those who prefer a more pronounced key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference and whether one prioritizes faster response times or a more satisfying key press sensation.
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 Red 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 Red 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 Aflion Blush linear switch is best described as having a low-pitched sound signature. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switches are known for their thocky sound profile. This type of switch produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound, similar to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. These descriptors indicate that the switch provides a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation, with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In comparison, the TTC Gold Red linear switches offer a mild and subtle typing experience. This means that they have a gentle typing feel with a light level of resistance. Additionally, these switches are described as silky and polished, indicating that they enhance overall smoothness and have a refined finish for a sleek typing experience.
Taking all the available information into account, we can conclude that the Aflion Blush linear switch is best known for its smooth, full, and snappy type feel, along with its low-pitched sound signature. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switches offer a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a thocky sound profile. Both switches provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, but with slightly different characteristics. If you are looking for a smooth and snappy typing feel with a low-pitched sound, the Blush switch is a great choice. If you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a thocky sound profile, the Gold Red switch is the way to go. However, keep in mind that the sound of switches can vary depending on other factors, so it's always recommended to try them out in person if possible to determine your preferred sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a smooth and snappy typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Aflion Blush linear switch is the way to go. With its longer, two-stage spring and long pole, this switch offers an impressively smooth and full typing feel, accompanied by a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and desire a buttery smooth typing experience, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is your best bet. These switches provide a light-medium level of resistance and produce a snappy sound profile that adds a modest touch of personality to your keyboard. Both switches have their own unique sound profiles, with the Blush being low-pitched and the Gold Red being thocky, low-pitched, and neutral. When it comes to feel, the Blush offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, while the Gold Red offers a mild, silky, subtle, and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blush and the TTC Gold Red will depend on your preference for bottom out force, typing feel, and sound profile. In the end, you can't go wrong with either switch as they both provide enjoyable and satisfying typing experiences.
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