Aflion Blush vs. Gateron Ink Box Black

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Aflion Blush and the Gateron Ink Box Black, both of which are linear switches. The Blush switch, offered by Aflion, boasts an impressive smoothness and snappiness, thanks to its longer two-stage spring. Additionally, its long pole adds a satisfying poppy sound signature to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black switch from Gateron offers an incredibly smooth and creamy typing experience, with a sound signature reminiscent of a shaken spray paint can. While both switches offer their unique benefits, it's essential to delve deeper beyond generalities to determine which switch best suits your preferences and typing style.

By the numbers

Aflion Blush Linear

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Blush and the Gateron Ink Box Black differ in their housing materials. The Blush features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Ink Box Black uses Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing. This material produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. Although both materials contribute to a distinct sound, the Blush's polycarbonate housing may offer a clearer and brighter tone compared to the Ink Box Black's INK blend.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Blush incorporates a nylon material. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile in switches. Its softness allows for greater sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for the bottom housing. Similar to the top housing, this material contributes to the switch's clacky sound. While both the Blush and the Ink Box Black offer a satisfying sound, the Blush's nylon bottom housing may provide a deeper and more resounding tone compared to the Ink Box Black's INK blend.

When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound and feel of the switch, it is important to note that each housing material brings its own qualities. The bottom housing, whether it be nylon or Gateron's INK blend, has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing, whether it be polycarbonate or Gateron's INK blend, plays a larger role in the sound when the key is released. Despite the differences in their housing materials, both the Blush and the Ink Box Black aim to provide a unique auditory experience, with the bottom housing emphasizing impact and the top housing contributing to the sound during key release.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, there are notable differences. The actuation force of the Blush is unavailable in grams, while the Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams. This means that the Ink Box Black requires slightly more force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Blush, although the exact difference is unknown. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Blush requires 58 grams, which is considered medium, while the Ink Box Black requires 70 grams, making it medium-heavy.

Considering weight, some users prefer lighter switches as it allows for longer typing periods, which is beneficial for work or extended gaming sessions. Those who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards switches with heavier forces. In this case, the Blush with its medium actuation and bottom out forces may suit users who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black, with its slightly higher actuation force and medium-heavy bottom out force, would be more suitable for those seeking a heavier and more substantial typing feel.

Although the specific actuation force of the Blush is unknown, it is safe to assume that since both switches have relatively similar bottom out forces - 58 grams for the Blush and 70 grams for the Ink Box Black - users can expect comparable results when it comes to the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Ink Box Black providing a slightly heavier feel compared to the Blush.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Ink Box Black has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Although both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, they still provide a satisfying typing experience. If you are someone who values faster response times, the Blush with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances for quick reflexes. Conversely, if you prefer a deeper keystroke that feels more substantial, the Ink Box Black with its slightly longer travel distance may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either responsiveness or a more pronounced keystroke.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blush switch offers a low-pitched tone with a bass-heavy and mellow quality. This creates a full and smooth sound profile that is pleasing to the ears. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch has a clacky sound that is sharp and snappy, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. It also has a higher-pitched sound, which gives it a sharp and crisp tone. Depending on your preference for sound, both switches offer distinct qualities. If you prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, the Blush switch would be the better choice. If you prefer a sharper and brighter sound, the Ink Box Black switch would be more suitable. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, both switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience. The Aflion Blush switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, providing a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation. It glides smoothly under your fingers, allowing for comfortable and fluid typing. Similarly, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch is also described as silky and polished, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel. It has a refined finish that reduces friction and ensures a sleek typing experience. In terms of feel, both switches seem to offer a similar level of smoothness and comfort.

Overall, the Aflion Blush switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black switch have different sound profiles, with the Blush switch offering a low-pitched and mellow tone while the Ink Box Black switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound. However, in terms of feel, both switches provide a smooth and buttery typing experience. If you prioritize sound, you can choose the switch based on your preference for a bass-heavy and mellow tone or a sharper and brighter sound. However, if you prioritize feel, both switches would provide you with similar smoothness and comfort during typing.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider. The Blush offers a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Ink Box Black has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams.

The Blush switch is best known for its impressively smooth, full, and snappy typing feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. It also produces a poppy sound signature that adds to the overall experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black is highly regarded for its incredible smoothness and creaminess, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken.

In terms of sound, the Blush has a low-pitched tone, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow sound. In contrast, the Ink Box Black is described as clacky and high-pitched, delivering a sharp, crisp, and percussive sound.

When it comes to feel, both switches offer a silky typing experience. The Blush is also described as creamy and buttery, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Similarly, the Ink Box Black is referred to as silky and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Ultimately, if you prioritize a lower bottom out force and enjoy a poppy sound signature, the Aflion Blush linear switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and value an incredibly smooth and creamy typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be a great option. It ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blush Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more