Aflion Blush vs. Outemu Lime

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options on the market are the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Lime. The Blush, a linear switch, is renowned for its smooth and snappy typing experience, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring design. With a long pole, it also produces a satisfyingly poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Lime is a tactile switch that stands out for its lightweight build and approachable tactility. These switches are perfect for tactile enthusiasts who prefer a feathery light typing feel with a subtle touch of tactility. The Lime switches are also silenced, ensuring an overall quiet typing experience. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your specific needs.

By the numbers

Aflion Blush Linear

Outemu Lime Tactile

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$3.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Lime, one key difference is that the Blush utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the Lime employs a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Blush creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate as a plastic material. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Lime produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound. Therefore, when it comes to sound profile, the Blush offers a more clear and resonant experience, while the Lime provides a duller and rounder sound.

Another distinction lies in the bottom housing materials of the Blush and the Lime, both of which are made of nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing on both switches. The relative softness of nylon enables it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, whether it's the Blush or the Lime, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and fullness due to the shared nylon bottom housing.

When examining how the top and bottom housings of a switch influence the overall experience, it becomes apparent that the qualities of the housing materials are divided between the two. In terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, the qualities of the bottom housing have a greater impact. This means that the Blush, with its softer nylon bottom housing, may provide a slightly different tactile feedback compared to the Lime, which also employs nylon for its bottom housing. On the other hand, when it comes to the sound produced when releasing a key, the qualities of the top housing become more significant. Therefore, the polycarbonate top housing of the Blush would contribute to a different sound experience compared to the nylon top housing of the Lime when releasing a key.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, there are notable differences between the two. The actuation force of the Blush is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare it to the Lime's actuation force of 35 grams. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 58 grams and 45 grams respectively.

Considering weight is an important factor when choosing a switch, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Lime switch, as its actuation force and bottom out force are relatively lower than that of the Blush. This lighter weight might make typing for extended periods more comfortable, especially for individuals who use their keyboards for work or engage in long gaming sessions.

On the other hand, for users who prefer a stronger and more substantial push feel during typing, the Blush switch may be a better option. While the exact actuation force is unknown, its bottom out force of 58 grams suggests a heavier push compared to the Lime switch. This can provide a more tactile and satisfying typing experience, particularly for those who enjoy a noticeable resistance when pressing the keys.

In conclusion, the Aflion Blush linear switch offers a potentially heavier and more substantial typing feel, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch provides a lighter and potentially more comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on an individual's preference for actuation force and bottom out force.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a keyboard switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom, which is the sensation you feel when pressing down on a key. In the case of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, both switches have a travel distance of 3.3mm. This means that when typing on a keyboard with either switch, you can expect to experience a similar level of key travel. While both switches have the same travel distance, it is worth noting that the Blush is a linear switch, while the Lime is a tactile switch. This means that the Blush provides a smooth and consistent feel throughout the keypress, while the Lime offers a tactile bump or feedback at the actuation point. Thus, while the travel distance remains the same, the typing experience may differ slightly between the two switches depending on one's preference for a linear or tactile feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blush linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound level that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using it at home or at work. Additionally, the Lime switch is also described as muted, which means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical keyboard switches. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch is renowned for its creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. This means that it offers a smooth and effortless sensation while typing, as the keys effortlessly glide under the fingers. The Blush switch achieves this through the application of lubricant at the factory and specific materials used. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime tactile switch is described as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. This means that it offers a gentle typing experience with minimal exertion required when pressing the keys. The feathery actuation force reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for prolonged typing sessions. The subtle resistance and polished finish also contribute to a smooth and refined typing experience.

Considering the available information, the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blush provides a low-pitched sound with a smooth and buttery typing experience, while the Lime offers a neutral and muted sound with a light and approachable tactility. Both switches are unique in their own way and cater to different preferences. If you are seeking a smoother typing experience, the Blush switch would be a suitable choice, while the Lime switch would be ideal if you prefer a lighter touch and quieter sound. Overall, it is important to consider personal preferences and requirements when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, as these factors play a significant role in determining the optimal switch for individual needs.

Conclusion

Bringing it all together, the Aflion Blush linear switch is an excellent choice if you prioritize a medium bottom out force of 58 grams and prefer a smooth, full, and snappy typing experience. Its longer two-stage spring and long pole contribute to its impressive performance and unique poppy sound signature. Additionally, the Blush switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, which provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime tactile switch is perfect for those who prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams and desire a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility. These switches are indeed one-of-a-kind, featuring an approachable tactility and being silenced for a quieter typing experience. The Lime switch falls under the category of a neutral switch with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. It also offers a muted sound signature, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Furthermore, the Lime switch provides a mild and subtle typing feel, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Overall, when deciding between these two switches, consider your preference for actuation force, typing experience, sound profile, and desired level of tactile feedback.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blush Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Lime Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more