Aflion Blush vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion blush and the Outemu cold plum mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, it is evident that each offers its own set of unique features and characteristics. The blush switch from Aflion is renowned for its smooth and snappy typing experience, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring and long pole design, which also contributes to its poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu cold plum switch stands out for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, providing a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound. While the blush is categorized as low-pitched, creamy, silky, buttery, the cold plum's categories are not provided. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences, but for a more informed decision, a deeper exploration into their specifics is necessary. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Cold Plum switches both showcase different characteristics and sound profiles. The Blush's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. In contrast, the Cold Plum's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by virtue of its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound. While the Blush's top housing is ideal for those seeking a clear and resonant sound with RGB lighting capabilities, the Cold Plum's top housing provides a rich and mellow typing experience.
On the other hand, both the Blush and the Cold Plum switches feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to their deeper and fuller sound profiles. Nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound compared to harder plastics. The bottom housing of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, as it absorbs more sound and provides a softer landing for the keypress. While the Blush and Cold Plum switches may differ in their top housing materials, their shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience with a deep and resonant sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of typing. The utilization of different materials, such as polycarbonate and nylon, in the top and bottom housings of switches can result in distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback. While the Blush's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharp and clear sound ideal for RGB lighting, the Cold Plum's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Despite their differences, both switches exhibit similar characteristics in their nylon bottom housings, ensuring a consistent and satisfying typing experience with a round and resonant sound profile.
Weight
The Aflion Blush linear switch and Outemu Cold Plum linear switch have distinct differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Blush has an actuation force of None grams, making it extremely light, while the Cold Plum has an actuation force of 60 grams, making it slightly heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the Blush requires 58 grams to bottom out, which is considered medium, whereas the Cold Plum requires 70 grams, making it medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Blush for longer typing sessions, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Cold Plum. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making them equal in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel. Both switches provide a consistent and smooth keystroke experience, making them suitable choices for typing or gaming. Their identical travel distances ensure that you will get comparable results in terms of key feel and responsiveness. Overall, whether you choose the Blush or Cold Plum linear switch, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with a reliable travel distance of 3.3 mm.
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 Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10 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, the Aflion Blush linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that provides a satisfying auditory experience during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch's sound profile is not specified. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Blush switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with a silky sensation that feels like gliding fingers across the keys with ease. This is likely due to the application of lubricant in the switch or specific materials used in its construction. Unfortunately, the tactile feel of the Outemu Cold Plum switch is not specified.
Overall, both the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Blush switch excels in providing a smooth and snappy feel with a low-pitched sound profile, the Cold Plum switch stands out for its thocky sound and nylon construction. Depending on the typing experience and sound signature you prefer, either switch can provide an enjoyable and distinct mechanical keyboard experience. If you enjoy a smooth typing experience, regardless of specific tactile feedback, both switches may result in similar results due to their common linear design.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prioritize a slightly lighter bottom out force and enjoy a smooth, snappy typing feel with a poppy sound signature, then the Aflion Blush switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a distinct typing experience with a thocky sound profile, the Outemu Cold Plum switch would be a great fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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