Aflion Blush vs. KTT Lightning

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Blush and the KTT Lightning are both popular options to consider. The Blush, a linear switch, is highly acclaimed for its exceptional smoothness and snappy typing experience. It is distinguished by its longer, two-stage spring and long pole, which offer a satisfyingly poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Lightning, also a linear switch, is renowned for its speed and responsiveness. It is often the preferred choice for gamers or those who require quick reflexes, as its slick typing feel and clacky sound profile provide a distinct advantage. While both switches have their unique appeal, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Blush Linear

KTT Lightning Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$3.41 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the KTT Lightning share similarities as they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in the switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, resulting in a more precise typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the illumination to shine through the housing.

However, the key difference lies in their bottom housing material. The Blush incorporates nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softness, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. As a result, the switch with a nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, contributing to a more satisfying typing experience.

With the Lightning, the bottom housing also utilizes nylon, providing similar qualities to the Blush. Consequently, pressing down on the switch will elicit a deeper and fuller sound that comes from the nylon material. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, enhancing the overall typing sensation.

Despite these differences, both switches offer a range of auditory experiences due to the combination of materials in their top and bottom housing. While the top housing predominantly affects the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and overall typing feel. Whether it's the Blush or the Lightning, users can expect high-quality sound profiles and an enjoyable typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Blush's actuation force is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare to the Lightning's actuation force of 43 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Blush requires 58 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Lightning's 50 grams.

Considering weight, some individuals may find the lighter actuation force of the Lightning switch preferable as it allows for longer typing sessions without inducing fatigue. This lighter force is particularly suitable for those using a keyboard extensively at work or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those preferring a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Blush switch, which likely has a heavier actuation force. A stronger push feel can provide a tactile and satisfying typing experience for users who appreciate a bit more resistance.

It is worth mentioning that although the specific actuation force of the Blush switch is unknown, its bottom out force, which reflects the pressure required to fully press the key, is slightly heavier compared to the Lightning switch. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of bottoming out, with both switches offering a satisfactory amount of resistance.

Overall, the Aflion Blush switch leans towards a potentially heavier actuation force, while the KTT Lightning switch offers a lighter actuation force. This difference in force can influence the typing experience and may appeal to users with specific preferences for either a lighter or heavier key press.

Travel distance

The Aflion Blush linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Lightning has a travel distance of 3 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are increasingly popular, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the Lightning switch may provide a slightly quicker response for those who value quick keypresses. On the other hand, some individuals may find the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Blush switch more comfortable, as it offers a slightly deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for the level of responsiveness and depth desired in a typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Aflion Blush linear switch is best described as having a low-pitched sound profile. Low-pitched switches typically offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, the Lightning switch is also described as high-pitched and chirpy, further distinguishing its sound signature. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

In terms of feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch is known for its creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. These descriptors suggest that the Blush switch offers an exceptionally smooth and buttery typing experience. It enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch is described as having a subtle and polished feel. It has a gentle resistance while still maintaining a light typing feel. Additionally, the polished finish of the Lightning switch contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Overall, the Blush and Lightning switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blush provides a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow, while the Lightning offers a clacky and high-pitched sound with a chirpy acoustic signature. In terms of feel, the Blush switch delivers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, while the Lightning switch provides a subtle and polished feel. It's important to consider personal preferences and typing preferences when selecting between these switches, as they offer different characteristics that cater to different user preferences.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, there are a few factors to consider. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, along with an impressively smooth and snappy typing experience, the Blush switch might be the better choice for you. Its longer, two-stage spring and long pole contribute to its smoothness and provide a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, if you prioritize a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and are looking for a "speed" switch, the Lightning switch is worth considering. It offers a slick typing feel and a clacky sound profile, making it suitable for situations where milliseconds can make a difference.

When it comes to sound, the Blush switch produces a low-pitched tone, which tends to be more bass-heavy and mellow. This can be appealing if you enjoy a deeper sound profile. In contrast, the Lightning switch has a clacky sound that is sharp, crisp, and percussive. Additionally, it offers a high-pitched sound for those who prefer a sharper and crisper profile. If you're looking for a switch with a unique acoustic signature, the Lightning switch's chirpy sound may be of interest to you.

Regarding feel, the Blush switch offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. It feels smooth and buttery, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys with ease. On the other hand, the Lightning switch provides a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel while still offering smooth key travel. Its polished finish adds to its sleekness and refined typing experience.

Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch will depend on your personal preferences and specific typing needs. Consider factors such as bottom out force, typing experience, sound profile, and overall feel to make an informed decision. Whether you prioritize smoothness, speed, sound, or a combination of these factors, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blush Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

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KTT Lightning Linear

$3.41 per 10

Learn more