Aflion Blush vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that are worth considering are the Aflion Blush and the SP-Star Meteor Orange. The Blush, a linear switch, is known for its impressive smoothness and snappy typing experience. With its longer, two-stage spring, this switch offers a full and satisfying feel, accompanied by a distinct poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange, a tactile switch, stands out for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile. Its soft and seductive touch makes typing a delightful experience. While these general descriptions provide a good foundation for decision-making, let's delve deeper into the characteristics of each switch to ensure you can make the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the SP-Star Meteor Orange differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Blush features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, users can expect a more distinct and precise auditory experience with the Blush, while the Meteor Orange offers a deeper and fuller sound.
Similarly, the bottom housings of both switches differ, with the Blush featuring a nylon material and the Meteor Orange utilizing nylon as well. This choice of material provides a similar experience in terms of sound profiles. Both housings create a deeper and fuller sound due to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. However, the Blush's bottom housing, being paired with the polycarbonate top housing, may offer a slight variation in the overall sound experience compared to the Meteor Orange's nylon bottom housing. Users can anticipate a well-rounded and immersive typing experience with both switches thanks to the absorbing nature of nylon.
When it comes to comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings, the qualities each material brings to the switch become apparent. Pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the choice of housing material in the bottom affects the tactile experience of typing. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Thus, the selection of housing material in the top crucially influences the auditory feedback during typing. Whether it's the sharper and resonant sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the Blush or the deeper and fuller sound of the nylon top housing in the Meteor Orange, users can expect distinct differences in the sound delivered when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Starting with the actuation force, unfortunately, the specific gram measurement for both switches is unavailable. However, it can be assumed that they fall within a similar range since no significant difference is mentioned. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Blush requires 58 grams of force, which can be considered medium, while the Meteor Orange requires 57 grams, making it slightly lighter at a medium-light level.
Considering the weight factor, lighter switches like these are favored by individuals who need to type or game for extended periods. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces allow for a smoother typing experience, reducing fatigue during prolonged use. This makes them ideal for those bringing their keyboard to work or engaging in long gaming sessions. However, some users prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, options with heavier forces are more suitable.
In conclusion, although the specific actuation force of the Aflion Blush and SP-Star Meteor Orange switches is unknown, it can be assumed they are similar. However, the Blush has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Meteor Orange, making it the heavier option between the two. Nevertheless, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their medium and medium-light forces, respectively.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it is clear that there is a difference between the two. The Blush has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Meteor Orange has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. These distances suggest that the Blush will provide a more responsive typing experience, ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange offers a deeper key press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feeling when typing. Both options cater to different preferences; the Blush for those who prioritize shorter travel distances and the Meteor Orange for individuals who prefer a bit more depth.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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 Aflion Blush linear switch is well-known for its impressively smooth and snappy type feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. It also produces a poppy sound signature, which is described as low-pitched. Low-pitched switches typically feature a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a soft and seductive tactility. Its sound profile is described as neutral, meaning it has a moderate sound profile suitable for most use cases. However, it is also described as thocky, meaning it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch is often described as creamy, silky, and buttery. These terms refer to switches that offer a smooth and buttery typing experience. They enhance the overall smoothness of the typing feel, minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys, and provide a seamless and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is described as mild and polished. A mild switch offers a gentle typing experience, while a polished switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blush linear switch is best known for its smooth and snappy type feel, accompanied by a poppy low-pitched sound signature. Its feel is described as creamy, silky, and buttery. The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, on the other hand, is known for its soft and seductive tactility, with a neutral and thocky sound profile. Its feel is described as mild and polished. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. Based on the available information, one can expect a smooth and satisfying typing experience from either switch, albeit with slightly different sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and snappy linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Aflion Blush is a fantastic choice. Its longer, two-stage spring and long pole design provide an impressively smooth and full typing experience, accompanied by a poppy sound signature. Additionally, the Blush has a low-pitched sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the SP-Star Meteor Orange is an excellent option. These switches boast a soft and seductive tactility, creating a gentle typing experience. Their neutral sound profile is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, using them at home or work. Furthermore, the Meteor Orange switches have a thocky sound, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed.
When it comes to feel, the Blush offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. The smooth and buttery sensation allows for effortless gliding of your fingers across the keys, creating a seamless and uniform typing sensation. In contrast, the Meteor Orange provides a mild and polished typing experience. The mild feel is approachable to most and falls in a safe middle-ground, while the polished finish reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Blush and the SP-Star Meteor Orange depends on your preferences for linear versus tactile switches and your desired bottom out force. Consider whether you prioritize smoothness, sound, or tactility when making your choice. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. In the end, selecting the switch that aligns with your typing style and preferences will ensure an enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
