Aflion Blush vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The world of mechanical keyboard switches offers a vast array of options, each with their own unique characteristics. Two switches that stand out among the rest are the Aflion Blush and the SP-Star Meteor White, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The Blush switch, regarded as Aflion's finest linear offering, is known for its impressively smooth feel and snappy typing experience thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. Additionally, the Blush switch produces a poppy sound signature, adding an extra layer of satisfaction to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch embodies a subdued nature, providing a gentle and easy-to-press typing experience. With a soft pitter-patter sound profile, this switch offers a more relaxed and quiet typing experience. While these general pointers provide a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, it is important to delve deeper and consider personal preferences to make the best decision for your typing 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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the SP-Star Meteor White differ in terms of the top housing. The Blush utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which helps create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate housing is translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Meteor White utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, while the Blush offers a sharper sound profile, the Meteor White provides a deeper and fuller sound experience.
Both the Blush and the Meteor White share the same nylon bottom housing material. Nylon is known as a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, contributing to a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, although their top housings differ, both the Blush and the Meteor White will offer a similar sound experience when it comes to their bottom-out sound and feel. Users can expect a satisfying and rich sound while typing on switches that utilize nylon bottom housings.
It is important to note that the choice of top and bottom housing materials greatly influences the overall sound profile of a switch. While the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing plays a more prominent role in the sound produced when a key is released. With the Blush's polycarbonate top housing, users can expect a sharper and more resonant sound when letting go of a key, enhancing the overall tactile experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White's nylon top housing will result in a slightly different sound characteristic, with a deeper and fuller sound when keys are released. Both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their differing top and bottom housing materials, allowing users to choose according to their desired sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, we find some similarities and differences. The actuation force of both switches is unavailable, meaning we do not have specific information on the exact grams required to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force of the Aflion Blush is slightly heavier at 58 grams compared to the SP-Star Meteor White, which has a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it medium-light.
Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use may opt for the SP-Star Meteor White switch. Its slightly lighter bottom out force could provide a more comfortable and effortless typing experience, especially for those who frequently use their keyboards for work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Aflion Blush. With its heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, it can offer a satisfying tactile response and require a bit more effort to press down fully.
In summary, while the actuation force remains unknown for both switches, the Aflion Blush has a heavier bottom out force compared to the medium-light bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor White. Depending on personal preferences and the desired typing experience, users can choose either switch to cater to their needs.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches have different travel distances, with the Blush being the shorter of the two. A travel distance of 4.0mm is considered the most traditional, while 3.0mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, especially among gamers who prefer faster response times. For those who prioritize responsiveness, the Blush with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a more substantial depth in their keystrokes. For those seeking a more hearty typing experience, the Meteor White with its longer travel distance would be a better option.
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 White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blush linear switch offers a low-pitched profile, which means it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This can contribute to a satisfying and rich auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, meaning it falls in the middle ground in terms of sound. It offers a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you use them at home or work. Additionally, the Meteor White switch is also described as thocky, which typically produces a deep and satisfying sound when pressed and released. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blush switch is often described as creamy, silky, and buttery. These descriptors all point towards a smooth and effortless typing experience. The switch's smoothness can be attributed to factors such as factory lubrication or specific materials used in its construction. Typing on a Blush switch feels like gliding your fingers across the keys effortlessly, with each keystroke melting into the switch. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. It provides a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users, as its characteristics fall within a safe middle-ground zone. The polished finish of the switch contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blush and SP-Star Meteor White switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blush switch provides a low-pitched sound profile, while the Meteor White offers a neutral and thocky sound. As for feel, the Blush switch offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, while the Meteor White switch provides a mild and polished feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that can cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, it's important to note that individual experiences may vary, and the choice of keyboard board and keycaps can also impact the overall sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a smooth and snappy typing feel, then the Aflion Blush would be a great choice. Its longer, two-stage spring provides a satisfying typing experience, and its long pole creates a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle and subdued typing experience with a slightly lighter bottom out force, then the SP-Star Meteor White is the switch for you. It offers an easy push and a gentle pitter-patter sound profile. In terms of sound, the Blush has a low-pitched tone, while the Meteor White has a neutral sound profile with thocky characteristics. As for feel, the Blush is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, offering a smooth and effortless typing sensation. Meanwhile, the Meteor White is mild and polished, providing a safe and approachable typing experience. Consider your preferences and typing needs, and choose the switch that best suits your style. Ultimately, both the Blush and the Meteor White are excellent linear switches, but their unique characteristics cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Mentioned in this article
