Aflion Blush vs. Cherry MX Black

Overview

When it comes to comparing and contrasting mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Blush and the Cherry MX Black, both of which belong to the linear switch category. The Blush switch from Aflion is highly regarded for its smooth and snappy typing experience, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. Additionally, the Blush switch produces a poppy sound signature, giving it a unique touch. On the other hand, Cherry has impressed users with their MX Black switches, refining them with their new Hyperglide tooling. These switches offer a classic textured smoothness and have a deep sound profile when typing. The MX Black switches from Cherry are known for being low-pitched, textured, and stiff. While these general descriptions give you a sense of what each switch has to offer, delving deeper into their specific features and characteristics will help you make the best decision based on your preferences and needs. So, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Blush Linear

Cherry MX Black Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$4.00 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the Cherry MX Black, one noticeable difference is in their top housing materials. The Blush features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when compared to the MX Black's nylon top housing. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Blush's polycarbonate top housing is also ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the MX Black's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.

In terms of the bottom housing materials, both the Blush and the MX Black utilize nylon, making them similar in this aspect. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel.

It's important to note that the qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either the Blush or the MX Black, the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the sound and feel during the key press. Conversely, the top housing will have a more noticeable effect on the sound produced when releasing a key. Overall, while both switches may have similar bottom housing materials, the differences in their top housing materials contribute to distinct sound profiles and potentially varying aesthetic preferences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there are some clear differences. Starting with the actuation force, the Blush's exact measurement is unknown, while the MX Black requires 60 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. This indicates that the MX Black has a slightly higher actuation force compared to the Blush. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Blush requires 58 grams of force, which can be considered medium, while the MX Black has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the MX Black provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.

Considering weight, some individuals may favor a lighter actuation and bottom out force, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who value a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces. In this case, the MX Black would be the preferred choice.

It is worth noting that although the exact actuation force of the Blush is unknown, the comparison between the two switches indicates that the MX Black requires a slightly higher force for keystrokes. Therefore, it can be inferred that selecting the Blush switch would likely provide similar results to the MX Black in terms of actuation force. However, the MX Black is the heavier option when considering both actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it is clear that the MX Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, whereas the Blush has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the MX Black the more traditional option, while the Blush falls into the category of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular. Gamers, for example, often opt for shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. So, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Blush with its shorter travel distance would be the better choice. However, it's important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances too abrupt and prefer the feeling of more depth. In that case, the MX Black with its longer travel distance would be the preferred option. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference and the desired level of key press feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the Blush and MX Black switches are described as low-pitched, which means they offer a bass-heavy and mellow tone. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used. So, while the sound profiles of the Blush and MX Black switches may be similar, different setups may yield slightly different results.

In terms of feel, the Blush switch is often described as creamy, silky, and buttery. This indicates that it offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a silky sensation and effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the MX Black switch is described as textured and stiff. This means that it has noticeable friction when pressed, which some users may prefer, and it requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out.

In conclusion, the Blush switch by Aflion stands out for its impressively smooth, full, and snappy type feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring and long pole that provides a poppy sound signature. It offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Black switch by Cherry has a classic textured smoothness due to Cherry's Hyperglide tooling, and it produces a familiar deep sound profile. While both switches share a low-pitched sound profile, the Blush offers a smoother and more effortless typing experience compared to the textured and stiffer feel of the MX Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider. If you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force of 58 grams and a smooth, full, and snappy typing feel, the Blush switch might just be the perfect choice for you. Its longer, two-stage spring and long pole provide an impressively smooth typing experience and a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams and a classic textured smoothness, the MX Black switch from Cherry is the way to go. With Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling, these switches offer a deep sound profile that many users find familiar and satisfying. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile, but the Blush offers a creamy, silky, and buttery feel, while the MX Black has a textured and stiff typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing force, smoothness, and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blush Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Black Linear

$4.00 per 10

Learn more