Aflion Blush vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Blush and the Gateron Ink Red are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, offering a smooth typing experience. The Blush switch, Aflion's best linear offering, stands out for its impressively smooth and snappy type feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. Additionally, its long pole provides a unique and poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Ink Red switch is known for its lower actuation force, making it perfect for those with a lighter typing style. The Ink Reds are satisfyingly smooth and offer a crispy and clacky sound profile, making typing effortless. While these general characteristics can guide your decision, it is essential to dive deeper into the specific traits of each switch to determine which one suits your preferences best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the Gateron Ink Red switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profile. The Blush features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound. In contrast, the Ink Red utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its top housing, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. While both materials offer a satisfying sound experience, the Blush's polycarbonate housing is particularly well-suited for those who plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Ink Red's top housing provides a clacky sound that appeals to many typists.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Blush incorporates a nylon material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience. In comparison, the Ink Red utilizes Gateron's INK blend for its bottom housing, contributing to the same pointed and high-pitched sound found in its top housing. This consistent sound profile throughout the switch lends a cohesive and satisfying typing experience for users.
It is worth noting that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material will impact different aspects of the typing experience. When pressing down on either the Blush or Ink Red, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more noticeable, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when letting go of a key, the top housing will play a more significant role in creating the sound. Therefore, while the two switches may have different housing materials, their overall performance and sound profiles are likely to yield similar results depending on the aspect of typing experience being considered.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, there are a few noticeable differences. The Blush switch has an unknown actuation force, while the Ink Red switch has an actuation force of 45 grams. Despite the unknown value for the Blush switch, it is safe to assume that it falls within a similar range to the Ink Red switch, suggesting that they both require a relatively light force to trigger a keystroke.
However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a slight disparity between the two switches. The Blush switch has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is considered medium, while the Ink Red switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, also classified as medium. This means that the Ink Red switch requires slightly more force to fully press down and bottom out compared to the Blush switch.
Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter feel for their switches will likely gravitate towards the Blush switch. Its lighter bottom out force of 58 grams would make it suitable for extended typing sessions and long gaming sessions, providing a more effortless experience. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a slightly stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Ink Red switch. With its slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a bit more resistance while typing.
Overall, both switches provide a similar actuation force range, offering a relatively light touch for keystrokes. However, the Blush switch is lighter in terms of bottom out force, while the Ink Red switch requires a bit more force to fully press down. Depending on personal preference, one can make their selection based on whether they prioritize a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, it is clear that the Ink Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Blush has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Ink Red falls within the traditional range of travel distances, providing a sense of depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Blush offers a shallower experience, which some gamers prefer for faster response times. If you value responsiveness and quick key presses, opting for the Blush with its shorter travel distance would be ideal. However, if you prefer a more substantial and deep feeling when typing, the Ink Red's longer travel distance would better suit your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. Whether opting for the shorter or longer travel distance, both switches will provide reliable results and meet the needs of their respective users.
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 Red 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 Red for $7.35.
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 has a low-pitched sound profile. This means that it produces a deeper and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a neutral sound profile with a hint of chirpiness. This unique acoustic signature sets the Ink Red apart from other switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a deeper and mellow sound, the Blush would be a great choice, while the Ink Red offers a more neutral sound with a touch of chirpiness.
In terms of feel, both the Aflion Blush and the Gateron Ink Red switches offer a silky and smooth typing experience. The Blush is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, providing a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation. The Ink Red is also silky and polished, offering enhanced smoothness and reduced friction during key travel. Additionally, the Ink Red is considered mild, providing a gentle typing experience that would be approachable for most users. Overall, both switches excel in providing a smooth and refined typing feel, with the Ink Red leaning slightly towards a more gentle experience.
Taking all the available information into account, the Aflion Blush linear switch stands out for its poppy sound signature and long pole design, which contributes to its impressively smooth and snappy typing feel. It offers a unique low-pitched sound and a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is known for its lower actuation force, making it perfect for users with a lighter typing style. It provides a satisfyingly smooth typing feel, along with a neutral sound profile and a touch of chirpiness. Both switches offer a silky and polished typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing effortless typing. Depending on your preferences, the Blush and the Ink Red can deliver similar results, ensuring an enjoyable and smooth typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Blush linear switch or the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, it's important to take into account your personal preferences and typing style.
If you prefer a medium bottom-out force, smooth and full typing experience with a poppy sound signature, then the Aflion Blush switch might be the better option for you. These switches offer an impressively smooth and snappy feel due to their longer, two-stage spring. The Blush switches are also described as having a low-pitched sound, which gives them a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
On the other hand, if you have a lighter typing style and prefer a switch with a lower actuation force, the Gateron Ink Red switch would be a great choice. These switches are satisfyingly smooth and have a crispy and clacky sound profile. The Ink Reds are effortless to type on and are described as having a neutral sound, making them suitable for various purposes. Additionally, the Ink Reds have a silky and polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience.
Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics and qualities. Your decision should be based on what you prioritize in terms of feel, sound, and bottom-out force. Whether you prefer a creamier, buttery typing experience or a mild, polished feel, both the Aflion Blush and Gateron Ink Red switches offer excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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