Aflion Blush vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing and contrasting the Aflion Blush and the Gateron Jupiter Red mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Aflion Blush, a linear switch, is praised for its longer, two-stage spring that provides a smooth, snappy typing experience with a distinctive poppy sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red, also a linear switch, offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, thanks to its single-stage spring. Additionally, the Jupiter Reds stand out for their high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, ensuring a consistent typing experience. While the Blush switch is characterized as 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', and 'Buttery', the Jupiter Red is labeled as 'Polished', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the Gateron Jupiter Red both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the housing material of the bottom differs between the two switches. The Blush uses nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and ability to absorb sound. Conversely, the Jupiter Red also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound qualities as the Blush.
While both the Blush and Jupiter Red share similar top and bottom housing materials, their differences lie in the overall sound profiles they produce. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of both switches contributes to their sharp and crisp sound output. However, the softer nylon bottom housing of both switches impacts the depth and fullness of the sound. The Blush's nylon bottom housing may absorb more sound than the Jupiter Red, potentially creating a duller and rounder sound profile. Despite these slight variations, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both switches ensures a unique auditory experience for users.
In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housing materials of the Aflion Blush and Gateron Jupiter Red play distinct roles in the overall typing experience. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, while the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings allows users to experience a harmonious blend of sharpness from the polycarbonate top housing and depth from the nylon bottom housing, resulting in a satisfying typing experience regardless of the switch chosen.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The Blush has a lighter actuation force of None grams, while the Jupiter Red requires 45 grams to actuate. Both switches have a similar bottom out force of around 60 grams, providing a medium typing experience. The Blush is lighter in terms of actuation force, making it ideal for longer typing sessions and gaming, where a lighter touch is preferred. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red offers a slightly heavier actuation force, giving a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is clear that the Blush has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Jupiter Red's 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Blush may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Jupiter Red may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press feeling. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
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 Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 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, the Aflion Blush linear switch offers a low-pitched sound signature, resulting in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch provides a neutral sound profile, which is moderate and suitable for various users and environments. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Blush switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. Meanwhile, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is noted for its polished, creamy, silky, and mild qualities, which provide a refined and sleek typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches prioritize smoothness and a comfortable typing experience, making them great options for users who value these qualities.
Overall, the Aflion Blush linear switch stands out for its unique two-stage spring design, smooth and snappy feel, and poppy sound signature, while the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch excels in providing a consistent keystroke with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects. While each switch offers its own set of qualities, users can expect a similarly smooth and comfortable typing experience from either option, with slight variations in sound and tactile feedback based on personal preference. Ultimately, both the Blush and Jupiter Red switches cater to users looking for a linear switch with a focus on smoothness and precision.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly lighter actuation force and a snappier typing experience with a poppy sound signature, the Aflion Blush switch might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force and a smoother, more neutral typing experience with softer backlight effects, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.