Aflion Blush vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Blush and the KTT Mint are two mechanical keyboard switches that both fall under the linear switch category. The Blush, known for its impressive smoothness and snappy type feel, stands out with its longer, two-stage spring and long pole that produces a distinct, poppy sound. On the other hand, the Mint offers a satisfyingly smooth typing experience, with a poppy thockiness and a light and fleeting type feel, thanks to its long pole stem. Both switches share characteristics such as being low-pitched and categorized as linear switches, but each offers its own unique qualities. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision in choosing the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the KTT Mint both feature polycarbonate top housings, which have similar effects on the sound profile of the switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, both switches have the advantage of being translucent, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either the Blush or the Mint.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, there is a difference between the two switches. The Blush utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Mint also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon creates a duller and rounder sound, which can be experienced when typing on switches that use nylon for the bottom housing. Thus, both the Blush and the Mint offer a unique typing experience with their nylon bottom housings.
It is important to note that the qualities each housing material brings to the switch are divided between the top and bottom housings. When pressing down on the switch, the impact and resulting sound will be influenced by the bottom housing. Conversely, when releasing a key, the sound will be more affected by the characteristics of the top housing. This means that while the Blush and the Mint have similar polycarbonate top housings, the difference in their nylon bottom housings can lead to varying experiences in terms of the sound produced during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, a few key differences emerge. The Blush switch's actuation force is not listed, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, the Mint switch requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, which may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Blush switch has a bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a slightly heavier feel during typing. The Mint switch has a lower bottom out force of 53 grams, making it slightly lighter in comparison.
Considering weight, some may favor a lighter switch to facilitate longer typing sessions or extended gaming marathons. For those individuals, the Mint switch would be a suitable choice with its lower actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, some users prefer a more pronounced and substantial push feel while typing, and they may opt for options with heavier forces. In this case, the Blush switch stands out with its higher bottom out force.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Blush switch is unavailable, the Mint switch offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Blush switch has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams compared to the Mint switch's 53 grams. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for lighter or heavier key press experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences. The Blush has a travel distance of 3.3mm, which is shorter than the traditional 4.0mm distance. On the other hand, the Mint has a longer travel distance of 4mm.
For those who prioritize faster response times, the Blush with its shorter travel distance would be the preferable option. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter distances for quicker key presses and reaction times. However, it's important to note that the shorter travel distance can feel more abrupt to some users who prefer a deeper key press.
On the other hand, the Mint switch provides a longer travel distance, which can offer a more satisfying and substantial feel when typing. This can be appealing to individuals who enjoy a deeper key press and want a more pronounced tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blush linear switch with its 3.3mm travel distance is the shorter option compared to the KTT Mint linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4mm. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preferences and the individual's desired typing experience.
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 KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 per 10 switches.
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, both the Blush and the Mint switches have a low-pitched sound profile. This means that they both feature a bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps you choose. Therefore, while the Blush and Mint switches may have similar low-pitched characteristics, the overall sound may still vary depending on these additional factors.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Blush is described as offering a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. These descriptors indicate that the switch provides a smooth and fluid keystroke, with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing the keys. The Mint, on the other hand, is described as having a mild and polished feel. This suggests a more gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the Blush switch emphasizes a silky and buttery sensation, the Mint switch aims for a safe middle-ground feel that is approachable to most users.
Taking into consideration the available information, we can conclude that both the Aflion Blush and KTT Mint switches offer smooth and satisfying linear typing experiences. They both have low-pitched sound profiles, although the actual sound can vary depending on other factors. The Blush switch stands out for its creamy, silky, and buttery feel, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the Mint switch offers a more mild and polished typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a gentler feel with reduced friction. Ultimately, both switches can deliver similar, enjoyable results while offering slight differences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Blush and the KTT Mint linear switches, consider the characteristics that best align with your preferences. If you value a smooth, full, and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature, along with a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, the Blush switch might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a satisfyingly smooth switch with a light and fleeting type feel, a poppy thockiness, and a slightly lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, the Mint switch could be the better option.
In terms of sound, both switches share a low-pitched profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, the Mint switch also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and environments.
When it comes to feel, the Blush switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Mint switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific qualities that resonate with you the most, whether it's the Blush switch's smoothness, fullness, and snappy feel, or the Mint switch's satisfying smoothness, poppy thockiness, and lighter touch. Consider your personal preferences and requirements in terms of force, sound, and feel to select the switch that will enhance your typing experience.
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