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Aflion Blush vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue

An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Dustproof Blue offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Aflion Blush is a linear switch that stands out for its smooth and snappy feel, thanks to its longer two-stage spring and poppy sound signature provided by its long pole. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch with no specific standout feature mentioned. While the Blush is categorized as low-pitched, creamy, silky, buttery, the Dustproof Blue lacks any specific categorization. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preferences and typing needs; however, let's delve 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

50g

Bottom-out force

58g

Bottom-out force

65g

Pre-travel

N/A

Pre-travel

2.20 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

When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Dustproof Blue, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This allows for a more clear and resonant sound experience when typing. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches ensures a similar auditory and visual experience for users.

While both switches have a polycarbonate top housing, the Aflion Blush features a nylon bottom housing, whereas the Outemu Dustproof Blue also has a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. Therefore, despite having different top housings, both switches offer a similar tactile and auditory experience due to their shared nylon bottom housing that enhances typing sound and feel.

It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. With their combination of polycarbonate top housing for a sharp sound and nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound, both the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Dustproof Blue provide a balanced typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound profiles.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, a noticeable difference can be seen. The Aflion Blush has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it is extremely light to the touch, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Blush requires 58 grams, landing it in the medium range, whereas the Dustproof Blue is heavier at 65 grams, falling into the medium-heavy category. This indicates that the Dustproof Blue switch offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the lighter and more effortless typing experience provided by the Blush. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Blush has a shorter travel distance of 3.3mm, while the Dustproof Blue has a longer travel distance of 4mm. The Blush's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the Dustproof Blue's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper actuation. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. In this case, the Blush offers a shorter distance for those seeking a more responsive feel, while the Dustproof Blue provides a more traditional and deeper keypress.

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 Dustproof Blue 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

Overall, the Aflion Blush linear switch offers a smooth, full, and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature due to its long, two-stage spring design. The feel of the Blush switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch does not have any specific information available regarding its sound or feel qualities. In general, when comparing switches with known characteristics like the Blush and an unknown switch like the Dustproof Blue, it is important to consider personal preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Blush switch may be more appealing to those looking for a buttery and silky typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Dustproof Blue switch may have its own unique qualities that could suit different preferences. Ultimately, it is recommended to try out different switches to find the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Blush linear switch or the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, you should opt for the Blush if you prefer a medium bottom out force, enjoy a smooth and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound, and appreciate a low-pitched, creamy, silky, or buttery feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a clicky switch without a specific sound or feel preference, the Dustproof Blue may be the right choice for you. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your personal typing preferences and priorities in a mechanical keyboard switch.

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