Aflion Blush vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Crystal Brown mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Aflion Blush is a linear switch that stands out for its smooth and snappy feel, thanks to its two-stage spring and long pole design. Known for its low-pitched, creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, the Blush is a favorite among those who value a consistent and satisfying keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown is a tactile switch that offers a completely different typing experience. While not particularly known for any standout feature, the Crystal Brown provides tactile feedback and a satisfying bump upon actuation. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Crystal Brown feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the auditory experience. The similarities in their top housing materials mean that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics when using either switch.
On the other hand, the Blush and the Crystal Brown differ in their bottom housing materials, with the Blush utilizing nylon and the Crystal Brown featuring polycarbonate for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound for switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite the different bottom housing materials, both switches still offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences to users.
When it comes to using switches with different top and bottom housing materials, the qualities of each material are distributed throughout the key press experience. The bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that a switch like the Blush, with a nylon bottom housing and polycarbonate top housing, will offer a combination of deep, full sound upon pressing the key and a sharper, crisper sound when the key is released.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two. The Blush has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, while the Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that it is lighter than the Blush. In terms of bottom out force, the Blush requires 58 grams, which is heavier than the Crystal Brown's 55 grams. Both switches fall under the medium category for bottom out force, but the Blush leans towards the heavier side, while the Crystal Brown is considered medium-light. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience, with the Blush offering a more substantial push feel and the Crystal Brown providing a lighter touch for longer typing sessions.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Blush offers a slightly quicker response time compared to the Crystal Brown due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers might prefer the Blush for its faster actuation, while those looking for a more substantial keypress might lean towards the Crystal Brown with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of key feel and responsiveness, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you're looking for a similar level of depth in travel distance between the two switches, you may want to explore other options that fall within the traditional 4.0mm range.
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 Crystal Brown 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
The Aflion Blush linear switch is renowned for its smooth and snappy feel, attributed to its longer, two-stage spring design. The switch offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, allowing fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys with a satisfying melt into each keystroke. In terms of sound, the Blush produces a low-pitched, poppy sound signature that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, information about the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is currently unavailable.
When comparing the subjective qualities of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Blush excels in providing a smooth and buttery feel with a low-pitched sound profile. Without specific information on the Crystal Brown switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, based on the qualities described, it is likely that the Crystal Brown switch may offer a tactile typing experience with its own unique set of characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, but both switches are likely to deliver satisfying results for keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Crystal Brown with 55 grams may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, the Blush with 58 grams could be the better choice. Additionally, if you enjoy a smooth and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound, the Blush may be the way to go. However, if you are looking for a switch that offers a creamy, silky, or buttery feel, you may want to explore other options as the Crystal Brown does not have distinct characteristics in this regard. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure the best keyboard switch for your needs.
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