Aflion Blush vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blush and the Dareu Mahjong mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that make them appealing options for different preferences. The Blush switch from Aflion is renowned for its smooth and snappy feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring design, which also contributes to a distinct poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Mahjong switch from Dareu stands out with its eye-catching green and white color scheme, offering a lively typing experience and a poppy sound signature. While the Blush switch leans towards a 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Buttery' categorization, the Mahjong switch is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Polished'. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the Dareu Mahjong, we see that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. The Blush's polycarbonate top housing is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness that leads to a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Mahjong's POK top housing offers a smooth and clacky sound profile, with exceptional durability and shock resistance. While both switches use polycarbonate, the Blush focuses more on clarity and resonance, while the Mahjong emphasizes smoothness and durability.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Blush and the Mahjong opt for nylon bottom housings. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound, which can add depth and richness to typing. With both switches using nylon for their bottom housings, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel, with nuances that may affect bottom-out sound more prominently.
In analyzing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it's clear that each material brings unique qualities to the switches. The top housing material plays a significant role in the sound when letting go of a key, while the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel. With both switches utilizing different materials for their top and bottom housings, users can expect a balanced typing experience that combines the strengths of polycarbonate for sharpness and clarity with nylon for depth and fullness in sound. Ultimately, while the Blush and Mahjong may differ in their housing materials, both switches offer a harmonious blend of characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Blush has a bottom out force of 58 grams, whereas the Mahjong has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Blush is heavier to press down completely, while the Mahjong requires less force to trigger a keystroke. Both switches have a unique characteristic, with the Blush having a medium bottom out force and the Mahjong having a lighter actuation force. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Mahjong for extended typing sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Blush for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Aflion Blush with a slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress experience may opt for the Dareu Mahjong with a slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Dareu Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, featuring a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various purposes. The choice of sound between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference, as well as other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch is described as providing a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. This smooth and effortless sensation is achieved through lubrication applied at the factory and specific materials used in the switch. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is characterized by its bouncy, mild, and polished feel. These switches offer a spring-like feedback, gentle typing experience, and smooth key travel. Depending on whether a user prefers a smoother or livelier typing feel, they can choose between the creamy richness of the Blush or the bounce of the Mahjong.
Overall, both the Aflion Blush and Dareu Mahjong linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. Those who prefer a low-pitched sound and a creamy, silky typing feel may lean towards the Blush switch, while individuals looking for a neutral sound profile and a bouncier, polished typing experience may opt for the Mahjong switch. Whichever switch is chosen, both provide a satisfying typing experience depending on the individual's preferences and usage needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a smooth, full, and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature, the Blush may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a unique switch with a lively, poppy sound signature and effortless typing feel, the Mahjong could be the preferred option. Overall, the Blush offers a low-pitched, creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, while the Mahjong provides a neutral, bouncy, mild, and polished feel. Choose the switch that aligns with your preferences and typing style for the best mechanical keyboard experience.
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