Aflion Blush vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Aflion Blush and the KTT Grapefruit - two standout linear mechanical keyboard switches with their own unique qualities. The Blush, hailed as Aflion's finest linear offering, boasts a longer, two-stage spring that provides an incredibly smooth, full, and snappy typing experience. Its long pole contributes to a poppy sound signature that adds an extra touch of satisfaction to each keystroke. Categorized as "low-pitched," "creamy," "silky," and "buttery," the Blush switch offers a fulfilling tactile sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switches are equally exceptional in their own right. These tarty linear switches are known for their soft and light typing feel, accompanied by a "baritone" sound profile that falls somewhere between deep bass and neutral tones. Classified as "low-pitched," "neutral," and "polished," the Grapefruit switch provides a refined and balanced experience. However, let's delve deeper into the intricacies of these switches beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision about which switch is the ultimate choice for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 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 Aflion Blush and KTT Grapefruit both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also lends itself well to RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant and visually appealing effects. In terms of sound and aesthetics, these two switches will provide similar results due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Aflion Blush and KTT Grapefruit employ nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, typing on switches with nylon bottom housing will offer a different auditory experience compared to those with other materials. The Blush and Grapefruit, despite being different switches, will deliver similar sound qualities due to their shared nylon bottom housing.
When it comes to the overall switch experience, the top and bottom housings play distinct roles. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. Therefore, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will be more noticeable during the act of typing, providing a fuller and deeper sound. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, creating a distinct auditory experience. Both the Aflion Blush and KTT Grapefruit will showcase these characteristics in their respective top housings, resulting in subtle variations when it comes to the sound profile upon key release.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Blush linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, one of the main differences lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The actuation force of the Blush is unknown, while the Grapefruit requires 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottoming out, the Blush exerts a force of 58 grams, whereas the Grapefruit applies a slightly lighter force of 53 grams.
Considering the weight aspect, those seeking a lighter typing experience may prefer the Grapefruit switch, as its actuation force is lighter than that of the Blush. This lighter actuation force can result in less strain during extended typing sessions, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Blush switch, as it has a slightly higher bottom out force, indicating a stronger push feel.
While the actuation force of the Blush is unknown, it is likely that its force requirement will fall within the medium range, similar to that of the Grapefruit. Therefore, if a user desires similar results in terms of actuation force, both switches could potentially offer a comparable experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences regarding typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch have contrasting travel distances. The Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Grapefruit has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Blush's travel distance of 3.3 mm is shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm, making it a preferred choice for gamers who seek faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the Blush provides a more responsive feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Grapefruit's longer travel distance of 4 mm offers a deeper and more substantial sensation for those who prefer a hearty keystroke. Both switches offer their own advantages depending on personal preferences, with the Blush prioritizing quick responsiveness and the Grapefruit catering to those who enjoy deeper key travel.
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 KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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, both the Aflion Blush and the KTT Grapefruit switches are described as having a low-pitched sound profile. Low-pitched switches are known for their bass-heavy and mellow tone, offering a pleasant typing experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Blush is described as providing a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. These descriptors indicate that the Blush switch offers a smooth and effortless keystroke, with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit is described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. This indicates reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blush and the KTT Grapefruit switches offer similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Additionally, they both offer a smooth typing experience, with the Blush being described as creamy, silky, and buttery, and the Grapefruit being described as polished. Overall, whether you choose the Blush or the Grapefruit, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force and a smooth, full, and snappy typing experience, 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 buttery typing sensation. Additionally, it provides a poppy sound signature that adds to the overall experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a soft and light typing feel, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is the better option. These switches offer a tarty linear feel and a "baritone" sound profile, creating a unique and enjoyable typing experience. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile, but the Grapefruit also offers a neutral profile that suits various preferences and environments. In terms of feel, the Blush offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, while the Grapefruit provides a polished and sleek finish. Overall, both switches have their own strengths and it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of force, sound, and feel.
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