Aflion Blush vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options stand out: the Aflion Blush and the HMX KD200, both of which are linear switches known for their unique characteristics. The Aflion Blush is celebrated for its impressive smoothness and a delightful typing experience, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring that creates a full, snappy feel. This switch is characterized by a low-pitched, creamy, silky, and buttery sound signature, making it an ideal choice for those who crave a quieter yet satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX KD200 distinguishes itself as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, appealing to users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback with a lively typing response. While both switches promise a linear feel, their sound profiles and tactile experiences cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the HMX KD200 exhibit distinct differences in their respective top housings, which ultimately influence the sound profile and aesthetic qualities of each switch. The Aflion Blush utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity, which contributes to a sharper, more resonant sound profile. This material's ability to transmit sound clearly allows for a high-pitched, crisp auditory experience, perfect for RGB lighting setups due to its translucency. In contrast, the KD200 employs a nylon top housing that introduces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Here, the softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder, more subdued tonal quality. These differences in top housing materials highlight how the choice of material can significantly affect the overall performance and auditory experience of the switches.
When examining the bottom housings, both switches share a commonality as they both utilize nylon material. The nylon bottom housing in both the Aflion Blush and the HMX KD200 contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile, enhancing the typing experience by absorbing excess sound and providing a more muted acoustics compared to harder plastics. This uniformity in bottom housing materials means that, regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, both switches will share similar acoustic characteristics during key presses. Consequently, users can expect a consistent bottom-out sound and feel across both switches due to the shared nylon construction.
In essence, the combination of the different top materials with the same bottom housing creates a unique interplay in sound and experience. The polycarbonate top of the Blush will deliver a sharp, clean sound upon release, while the nylon bottom softens the impact during key presses. On the other hand, the KD200’s entirety, featuring a nylon top and bottom, leads to a more unified, deeper sound profile throughout the switch's operation. Users seeking clarity and brightness may find the Blush preferable, while those who prioritize a softer, fuller typing experience may gravitate towards the KD200. Despite these differences, both switches can provide satisfying auditory experiences, illustrating how distinctive materials influence the overall performance and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, there are notable differences in their tactile characteristics. The Aflion Blush does not specify an actuation force, which leaves a gap in understanding its responsiveness compared to the HMX KD200's actuation force of 45 grams, classified as light. In terms of bottom out force, the Blush has a definitive measurement at 58 grams, positioning it as medium, while the KD200 has a slightly lower bottom out force of 50 grams, marked as light. Consequently, this means that the Aflion Blush switch offers a heavier feel overall. Users who appreciate a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may prefer the HMX KD200, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Aflion Blush despite its unspecified actuation force. Overall, while the HMX KD200 is the lighter of the two, the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Blush provides a different tactile experience that could appeal to distinct preferences among users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, it's clear that they cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Blush switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the KD200 has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference may seem minimal, but it can influence how responsive each switch feels, especially for gamers who prioritize quick actions. The shorter travel distance of the Blush provides quicker actuation and responsiveness, appealing to those who prefer a snappier feel. In contrast, the KD200, with its longer 3.5 mm travel, offers a more substantial depth, which some users may find preferable for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for either rapid response or a more traditional keystroke feel.
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 HMX KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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 delivers a low-pitched, bass-heavy tone that tends to be mellow and soothing. This sound profile is characteristic of switches designed for a more understated auditory experience, which can be particularly appealing for users who prefer quieter operations while typing or gaming. In contrast, the HMX KD200 linear switch is known for being the clackiest member of its family, suggesting it produces a sharper, more pronounced sound. This potentially makes it more suitable for those who enjoy auditory feedback as a part of their typing experience, contributing to a distinct environment that is lively and engaging.
When it comes to feel, the Blush switch excels with its creamy, silky, and buttery characteristics. Users can expect a smooth and effortless typing experience, as if gliding over the keys. This type of feedback enhances the overall enjoyment, making long typing sessions more pleasurable due to the minimal resistance encountered during keystrokes. The KD200's feel is less clear since its described attributes are not provided, leaving its tactile response and overall typing experience somewhat of a mystery.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Blush linear switch offers a smooth, low-pitched auditory experience alongside a rich tactile feedback profile, the HMX KD200 linear switch stands out for its clackier sound. If you prefer a more mellow typing experience, you might gravitate toward the Blush. However, if you seek an energetic, pronounced sound, the KD200 could be the better choice. With their different sound signatures and the clearly defined tactile experience of the Blush, each switch caters to distinct preferences, allowing users to find what resonates best with their typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a more solid and tactile experience, the Blush switch, with its medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, offers a creamy and silky typing sensation that many find satisfying for both typing and extended gaming sessions. Its low-pitched, bass-heavy sound signature enhances the overall experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more muted acoustic profile while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a clackier typing experience, the KD200, with its 50-gram bottom-out force, could be your go-to option. Known as the clackiest switch in the HMX Film family, it delivers a more pronounced auditory feedback that some users may find invigorating. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you're seeking a smooth, buttery feel with a subdued sound in the Blush or a lighter, more resonant typing experience with the KD200.
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