Aflion Blush vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Blush and the Gateron Ink Black V2 are both popular choices when it comes to mechanical keyboard switches. The Blush is a linear switch that stands out for its smooth and snappy typing experience, thanks to its longer two-stage spring. Additionally, its long pole provides a pleasing poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 is also a linear switch that has earned a reputation in the mechanical keyboard community for its smooth downstroke and rich clack. While the Blush is categorized as having a 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', and 'Buttery' feel, the Ink Black V2 falls into the 'Low-pitched', 'Bassy', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', and 'Polished' category. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the Gateron Ink Black V2 have different materials for their top housings. The Blush utilizes polycarbonate, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Blush's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing. The INK blend provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound without being overly sharp. Users often describe it as clacky, offering a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound.
When it comes to the bottom housings, the Blush is made of nylon while the Ink Black V2 utilizes Gateron's INK blend. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2's INK blend bottom housing delivers a similar pointed and high-pitched sound as its top housing. This adds to the switch's clacky characteristic, providing a thin and higher-pitched sound experience during typing.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the Blush and the Ink Black V2, they both bring unique qualities to the switches. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the overall typing experience. The Blush's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Ink Black V2's INK blend provides a similar thin and high-pitched sound. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. The Blush's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Ink Black V2's INK blend results in a pointed and satisfying resonance. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles throughout the typing process.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Aflion Blush's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare it to the Gateron Ink Black V2's actuation force of 60 grams. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Blush weighing in at 58 grams and the Ink Black V2 at a slightly heavier 70 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Aflion Blush may be the better choice, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing without fatigue. This makes it ideal for those who use their keyboard frequently for work or indulge in lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2's slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. This provides a sense of solidity and reassurance with each keystroke.
Although the exact actuation force of the Aflion Blush is unknown, based on its medium bottom out force, users can expect to have a similar typing experience to the Gateron Ink Black V2, which is regarded as medium-heavy. Both switches offer a balance between lighter and heavier forces, ensuring that typing feels comfortable and satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch are quite different. The Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Ink Black V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional keyboard travel distances, the Ink Black V2 falls into the more standard range at 4.0 mm, while the Blush is on the shorter side at 3.3 mm.
For gamers or those looking for faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Blush may be preferred. The shorter distance allows for quicker presses, enhancing gameplay performance. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt and prefer the more traditional depth provided by the Ink Black V2's longer travel distance.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference. If you prioritize a more responsive and snappy typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Blush may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a more substantial and satisfying keystroke, the Ink Black V2 with its longer travel distance may be the preferred choice.
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 Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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
The Aflion Blush linear switch is best known for its impressively smooth, full, and snappy type feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. The switch offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys with ease. Additionally, the Blush has a long pole that provides a poppy sound signature. While the subjective qualities of the Blush's sound are not described in the provided information, they are likely to be low-pitched, similar to the Ink Black V2.
On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is a classic community favorite, offering a smooth downstroke and rich clack. It provides a mild typing experience, falling in a safe, middle-ground zone that is approachable to most users. The Ink Black V2 has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Its sound profile is low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses, akin to the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The chirpy characteristic sets the Ink Black V2 apart from other switches.
Overall, both the Aflion Blush and Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switches offer desirable qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. They provide smooth typing experiences, with the Blush being described as creamy, silky, and buttery, and the Ink Black V2 as polished. While the specific sound qualities of the Blush are unknown, both switches are described as low-pitched, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the user's typing experience. However, if you enjoy a smooth, low-pitched sound and a buttery typing feel, both the Blush and Ink Black V2 switches are likely to deliver comparable results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-bottom out force switch with a smooth and snappy typing feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch might be the perfect choice for you. Its longer, two-stage spring and long pole provide an impressively smooth and full typing experience, while also offering a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force switch with a smooth downstroke and rich clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch would be an excellent option. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile, with the Ink Black V2 also featuring a bassy and chirpy sound. In terms of feel, the Blush is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. The Ink Black V2, on the other hand, is described as mild and polished, offering a more gentle and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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