Aflion Blush vs. TTC Ice

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blush and the TTC Ice offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences and typing styles, despite both being classified as linear switches. The Blush switch stands out for its longer, two-stage spring, delivering an impressively smooth and snappy typing feel, complemented by a low-pitched, creamy sound signature that can make typing feel luxurious and enjoyable. In contrast, the TTC Ice captivates users with its striking crystal-clear transparent design and a highly responsive action, providing a satisfying bottom-out sound that enhances both gaming and everyday typing. While the Blush offers a buttery consistency that appeals to those who prioritize a soft tactile experience, the Ice is perfect for users who appreciate the visual aesthetics and auditory feedback that come with each keystroke. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Aflion Blush Linear

TTC Ice Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the TTC Ice, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which presents a clear advantage in terms of sound profile. The polycarbonate in both switches contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffness, leading to a more resonant auditory experience. This material selection ensures that light can easily pass through the top of the switches, making them particularly suitable for setups that incorporate RGB lighting. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate adds to the visual appeal of both switches, allowing for vibrant backlighting that enhances the overall look and feel of a keyboard.

However, the bottom housing of the Aflion Blush diverges from that of the TTC Ice, with the former using nylon while the latter employs polycarbonate. This material difference results in distinct auditory characteristics when typing due to the inherent properties of nylon, which is softer and tends to absorb sound more effectively. As such, the nylon bottom housing on the Blush produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas the polycarbonate bottom housing on the Ice maintains a crisper tone, reinforcing the sharpness introduced by its top housing. This contrast highlights how the combination of materials in each switch influences the overall sound experience, particularly in terms of bottom-out sound and feedback.

Ultimately, the dual-material compositions of the Aflion Blush and TTC Ice lead to differing acoustic and tactile experiences that can cater to various preferences among typists. While both switches feature polycarbonate in their top housing, ensuring a similar high-pitched sound when releasing a key, the nylon bottom housing in the Blush allows for a more subdued sound profile during key presses. For users who prioritize deeper sound and rounder feedback, the Aflion Blush may be the better choice, while those who favor sharper auditory feedback could lean toward the TTC Ice. The distinct qualities of each housing material split the switches' overall performance, allowing for a nuanced experience tailored to individual typing styles.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Blush linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, we find some distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Aflion Blush does not specify an actuation force, making it difficult to directly compare this aspect with the TTC Ice, which has a clearly defined actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Blush has a rating of 58 grams, while the Ice slightly exceeds this at 60 grams. This means that the TTC Ice is the heavier switch overall, offering a firmer typing experience, which may appeal to users who favor a substantial feel. Conversely, the Aflion Blush, with its unspecified lighter actuation force, may provide a more effortless typing experience, perfect for prolonged use. Therefore, while both switches have medium bottom out forces, the Ice is heavier and provides more resistance, catering to users who prefer a stronger action.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, the Blush features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Ice measures slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This makes the Blush the shorter of the two options, appealing for gamers or users who prioritize quick response times and prefer the rapid actuation that shorter distances provide. On the other hand, the Ice's 3.6 mm travel caters to those who might appreciate a more pronounced keystroke, offering a more tactile experience that some users may find more satisfying. In summary, if you're looking for a switch that allows for faster and more responsive typing, the Blush would be your best choice, while the Ice would suit those who value a deeper tactile feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Aflion Blush switch is characterized by a low-pitched tone that imparts a bass-heavy and mellow auditory experience. This sound quality, combined with its long pole design, contributes to a poppy sound signature that many users find satisfying. In contrast, the details regarding the sound signature of the TTC Ice switch remain unknown; however, it is described to provide a satisfying bottom-out sound, suggesting it may deliver a pleasant audio feedback that complements its overall linear feel.

When considering the tactile feel of these switches, the Aflion Blush stands out with descriptors such as creamy, silky, and buttery. This means that users can expect a smooth and buttery typing experience, making it feel as if their fingers are gliding effortlessly across the keys. The combination of a longer, two-stage spring and the materials used in the switch design enhances the overall typing sensation. Conversely, while the tactile feedback of the TTC Ice switch isn't detailed, it is noted to offer a smooth and responsive feel that indicates it may also provide an enjoyable typing experience, albeit perhaps with different characteristics.

In conclusion, while the Aflion Blush and TTC Ice switches each offer unique attributes, the Blush is distinguished by its low-pitched sound and exceptionally smooth feel. The Blush's creamy, silky, and buttery touch provides a premium typing experience that many enthusiasts cherish. Although the Ice's specific sound and feel qualities remain less defined, its reputation for a satisfying bottom-out sound and responsive feedback suggests it may also cater to users seeking a well-rounded linear switch. Ultimately, both switches could confer enjoyable typing experiences, with the Blush potentially providing more nuanced tactile sensations and sound quality.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you’re seeking a smooth, creamy, and buttery typing experience that enhances your overall comfort during extended writing sessions or casual gaming, the Blush switch would be an excellent choice. Its lower-pitched sound and responsive feel add to its appeal for those who appreciate a more relaxed typing sound while enjoying a tactile experience. Conversely, if you desire a switch that combines a solid and responsive feel with a premium sound signature, the TTC Ice switch may be more to your liking. Its design not only looks appealing but also provides a satisfying bottom-out sound, making it suitable for both gaming and regular typing tasks. Thus, consider the feel, sound, and aesthetic qualities of each switch, and select the one that aligns best with your typing style and preference.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blush Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

TTC Ice Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more