Aflion Blush vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Blush and the Gateron North Pole V2 are two popular mechanical keyboard switches known for their smooth linear operation. The Blush, hailed as one of Aflion's best linear offerings, features a longer, two-stage spring that provides an incredibly smooth and snappy typing experience. With its long pole, this switch also offers a distinctive poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the North Pole V2, known for its gummy typing feel, delivers a deep and muted sound profile that adds to its satisfying chewiness. Both switches offer creamy and subdued characteristics, providing a pleasant typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the Gateron North Pole V2 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a similar sound profile. Polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when compared to other housing materials. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Both switches offer this advantage, providing a clear and resonant sound profile when the keys are released.
However, the housing materials differ when it comes to the bottom housings. The Blush utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate one. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 contributes to the overall sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, showcasing the distinct qualities of each switch.
Overall, the Aflion Blush and the Gateron North Pole V2 offer similar results in terms of sound profile due to their shared polycarbonate top housings. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Blush and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 present subtle differences in sound characteristics. While the Blush provides a deeper and fuller sound, the North Pole V2 focuses on creating a sharper and crisper sound. These distinctions highlight the importance of considering both the top and bottom housing materials when choosing a switch, as they contribute to various aspects of the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The actuation force of the Blush is unavailable in grams, while the North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Blush measuring at 58 grams and the North Pole V2 at 65 grams, which is slightly heavier.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the North Pole V2 might be a better option, as it has a lower actuation force. This lightness allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Blush provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. The added resistance results in a more satisfying keystroke, although the specific actuation force remains unknown.
Overall, while the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience, regardless of whether they opt for the lighter or heavier force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch have different travel distances. The Blush has a travel distance of 3.3mm, while the North Pole V2 has a travel distance of 4mm. This means that the North Pole V2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Blush. A travel distance of 4.0mm is considered to be the most traditional, while 3.0mm is the most shallow. However, with the increase in gaming popularity, shorter travel distances have become more prevalent. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. So, if you are looking for a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Blush would be a better choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a more substantial key press, then the longer travel distance of the North Pole V2 would suit your preference. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your personal preference and the type of typing experience you prefer.
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 Gateron North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 switch is best described as having a low-pitched tone. This means that it offers a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch is described as being subdued in sound. While it's not completely silent, it does produce a dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blush switch is known for its creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. This means that it offers a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Gateron North Pole V2 switch, on the other hand, offers a gummy feel when typing. Bottoming out on these switches feels similar to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, they are also described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience.
Considering all the available information, it's clear that both the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences. The Blush switch stands out for its impressively smooth, full, and snappy type feel, along with its poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switch provides a deep and muted sound profile, along with a satisfying chewy typing feel. While the sound and feel characteristics differ between the two switches, they both offer a creamy typing experience, which means that users can expect a smooth and buttery sensation when typing on either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blush and Gateron North Pole V2 switches will come down to personal preference and which qualities are most important to the individual.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature, then the Aflion Blush linear switch is the way to go. With its medium bottom out force of 58 grams, it offers a pleasing typing feel that is described as creamy, silky, and buttery. The Blush switch provides a seamless and uniform typing sensation, as if gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. In terms of sound, it has a low-pitched tone, adding a mellow and bass-heavy quality to your typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a deep and muted sound profile along with a satisfying chewy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch might be your best choice. It has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, giving it a slightly heavier feel. The North Pole V2 switch is described as gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished. It offers a unique typing experience with a trampoline-like bottoming-out sensation. The switch also has a subdued sound, providing a more subtle and dampened sound signature.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blush and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize smoothness, snappiness, and a poppy sound, go with the Blush switch. However, if you prefer a deep and muted sound, along with a chewy and bouncy typing feel, the North Pole V2 switch might be more suited to your liking. Consider your desired typing experience and sound profile when making your decision.
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