Aflion Blush vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Blush and the KTT Orange both offer unique features and benefits that cater to different preferences. The Blush, Aflion's linear switch, stands out for its impressive smoothness and snappy typing experience. With its longer, two-stage spring and long pole, this switch provides a satisfyingly creamy feel and produces a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch features a bouncy type feel, thanks to its 22mm long spring. Its polycarbonate milky top housing, POM stem, and orange nylon bottom housing combine to create a slick and frictionless typing experience. Along with its low-pitched sound profile, this switch's excellent factory-lubing ensures a refined and fluid key travel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the KTT Orange both utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, both switches benefit from polycarbonate's translucency, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and lighting experiences with both the Blush and the Orange.
Where the Blush and the Orange differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Blush's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switch. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Orange opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switch. Therefore, users can expect a subtle difference in sound when pressing down on keys between these two switches.
It's worth noting that the qualities brought by the top and bottom housings of a switch will have separate impacts on the overall typing experience. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is fully pressed down. In contrast, the top housing, since it is made of polycarbonate for both the Blush and the Orange, will have a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer a combination of materials that create unique sound profiles, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, some similarities and differences can be observed. The actuation force of the Blush switch is unfortunately unavailable, while the Orange switch has an actuation force of 46 grams. This indicates that the Orange switch requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Blush switch, as its force requirement is lower. In terms of the bottom out force, the Blush switch has a slightly heavier force of 58 grams, while the Orange switch has a slightly lighter force of 53 grams. Both switches fall under the medium force category for bottoming out.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Orange switch, as it has a lower actuation force. This lighter touch allows for extended periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work environments or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who appreciate a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Blush switch due to its potentially heavier actuation force. This stronger push feel can enhance the overall typing sensation. However, since the actuation force for the Blush switch is not specified, it is essential to note that the exact comparison between the two switches is impossible to determine regarding actuation force.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch have different travel distances. The Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Orange has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. These distances are quite similar, with the Blush being slightly shorter. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize fast response times. If you prefer a more responsive and quick feel when typing or gaming, the Blush switch with its 3.3 mm travel distance may be the better choice. On the other hand, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a more substantial depth to their keystrokes. For those who prefer a more hearty typing experience, the longer 3.5 mm travel distance of the Orange switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing or gaming 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 Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 Aflion Blush and the KTT Orange switches have a low-pitched sound profile. This means that they both produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, so individual results may vary.
When it comes to feel, the Blush switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery. This means that it offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a silky sensation and effortless melt into each keystroke. The Orange switch, on the other hand, is described as bouncy and frictionless. It provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Orange switch offers an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys.
Taking into account the available information, it seems that both the Aflion Blush and the KTT Orange switches offer a smooth and pleasant typing experience. While the Blush switch is known for its impressively smooth and snappy feel, as well as its poppy sound signature, the Orange switch stands out with its bouncy and frictionless feel, along with a low-pitched sound profile. Some similarities can be observed, as both switches provide a smooth typing experience and have a low-pitched sound. However, it's important to keep in mind that personal preferences, as well as other factors such as keyboard and keycaps choices, may ultimately determine which switch is the best fit for an individual user.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, there are a few factors to consider. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Blush being slightly heavier at 58 grams compared to the Orange's 53 grams.
If you prioritize a smooth and snappy typing feel, the Blush switch might be the right choice for you. Its longer, two-stage spring provides an impressively smooth and full typing experience. Additionally, the Blush switch offers a poppy sound signature due to its long pole. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, the KTT Orange switch may be more suitable. Its 22mm long spring gives you a lively feedback sensation, while the factory-lubing ensures a refined and fluid key travel that minimizes friction.
Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile, which means they offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. So, if you enjoy a deeper and more soothing typing sound, either switch would satisfy your preference.
In terms of feel, the Blush switch is often described as creamy, silky, and buttery. This means that it offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a silky and uniform sensation for each keystroke. On the other hand, the Orange switch is known for being bouncy and frictionless. This gives you a spring-like or elastic feedback when typing, along with a frictionless and effortless key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. Consider what matters most to you - whether it's a smooth and snappy typing experience or a bouncy and frictionless sensation - and make your decision accordingly. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer their own unique benefits and can enhance your overall typing experience. In the end, it's about finding the switch that feels the best under your fingertips.
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