Aflion Blush vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Aflion Blush and the Durock Light Tactile. The Blush is a linear switch, known for its smooth and snappy type feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. Additionally, it offers a unique poppy sound signature, making it a favorite among enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch from Durock provides a gentle and welcoming tactility that sets it apart from the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. It gives users an angelic typing experience with a jelly-like sound signature. While these brief overviews give you a general idea, it's essential to dive deeper beyond these generalities to determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the Durock Light Tactile both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice if RGB lighting is to be used. Therefore, both the Blush and the Light Tactile will provide similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits due to their polycarbonate top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Blush utilizes a nylon material while the Light Tactile also incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, typing on switches that feature nylon bottom housings will produce a duller and rounder sound. In this aspect, both the Blush and the Light Tactile offer similar tactile feedback and auditory experiences due to their nylon bottom housings.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either the Blush or the Light Tactile, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be primarily influenced by the bottom housing. On the other hand, the sound when releasing a key will be more affected by the properties of the top housing. Therefore, while both switches may share similar qualities in terms of housing materials, their overall performance and sound may vary based on these split attributes.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The actuation force of the Blush switch is unknown, while the Light Tactile switch has an actuation force of 52 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Blush switch having a bottom out force of 58 grams and the Light Tactile switch having a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams.
In terms of weight, the Light Tactile switch is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, requiring less force to trigger a keystroke. This lighter actuation force can be beneficial for those who prefer longer typing sessions or engaging in prolonged gaming sessions. On the contrary, the Blush switch's actuation force remains unknown, so it is difficult to compare it to the Light Tactile switch in this aspect.
However, when looking at the bottom out force of the switches, the Light Tactile switch is heavier than the Blush switch. This heavier bottom out force provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel when pressing down on the keys.
Overall, while the actuation force of the Aflion Blush linear switch remains unknown, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch is lighter in terms of actuation force but heavier in terms of bottom out force. This information allows individuals to make informed decisions based on their preferences for either lighter actuation force or the more substantial typing experience provided by a heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Aflion Blush linear switch is 3.3 mm, while the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of comparison, the Blush offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Light Tactile switch. This means that when pressing down on a key with the Blush switch, you will experience a slightly shorter distance compared to the Light Tactile switch.
A 4.0 mm travel distance is considered the most traditional, offering a standard depth to key presses. On the other hand, the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Blush switch falls on the lower end, making it a preferred choice for gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation, beneficial when it comes to gaming scenarios that require swift and precise movements.
However, it's important to note that shorter travel distances may feel too abrupt for some users who prefer a more substantial depth to their keystrokes. For those who enjoy a more immersive typing experience, the longer travel distance of the Light Tactile switch may be the preferred choice.
Overall, choosing between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch depends on personal preference. If you prioritize responsiveness and faster actuation, the shorter 3.3 mm travel distance of the Blush switch would be the ideal option. However, if you prefer a more substantial and satisfying depth to your keystrokes, the 4 mm travel distance of the Light Tactile switch would be a better fit.
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 Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 Blush linear switch from Aflion is best known for its impressively smooth, full, and snappy typing feel. The longer, two-stage spring in this switch provides a unique tactile sensation that is highly satisfying to type on. Additionally, the long pole of the Blush switch produces a poppy sound signature, adding a touch of excitement to your typing experience.
On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch is best known for its gentle tactility. Unlike many other tactile switches on the market that offer sharper feedback, the Light Tactile switch provides a more angelic and subtle tactile bump. This switch offers a jelly-like sound signature, giving it a softer and more pleasant typing sound.
When it comes to sound, the Blush switch has a low-pitched tone. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch has a neutral sound profile. It falls in the middle ground, neither too loud nor too quiet, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Blush switch offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. The smoothness of this switch is achieved through lubrication applied at the factory and specific materials used in its construction. Typing on a creamy switch feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, with each keystroke seamlessly merging into the next. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch provides a more mild and polished feel. It offers a gentle typing experience without any harsh characteristics. The switch has a refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blush and Durock Light Tactile switches offer different subjective qualities. The Blush switch provides a snappy and poppy typing feel, with a low-pitched sound signature. It offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch offers a more gentle and subtle tactility, with a jelly-like sound signature. It has a mild and polished feel, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide their own unique characteristics, offering a range of options for different typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.
If you prioritize a smooth and snappy typing experience, along with a poppy sound signature, the Blush linear switch from Aflion might be the ideal choice for you. With its longer, two-stage spring and long pole, it offers an impressively smooth and full typing feel. Additionally, if you enjoy a low-pitched sound profile that is bass-heavy and mellow, the Blush switch can provide an enjoyable typing experience. Its creamy, silky, and buttery characteristics contribute to a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more gentle and approachable tactile experience, the Light Tactile switch from Durock is worth considering. It offers a super gentle tactility that contrasts with sharper tactile switches on the market. It also provides a jelly-like sound signature, which can be a unique and pleasant auditory experience. The Light Tactile switch falls into the medium-heavy bottom out force category, offering a satisfying typing experience with its mild and polished attributes. Its neutral sound profile suits a variety of typing preferences, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users.
Overall, the choice between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch depends on whether you prioritize a smooth linear feel with a distinctive sound profile, or a gentle tactile experience with a more versatile sound profile. Consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience.
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