Aflion Blush vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blush linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches offer a different typing experience. The Aflion Blush is recognized for its smoothness, fullness, and snappy feel, thanks to its longer two-stage spring and long pole, which also provides a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red does not have any particular standout qualities mentioned. The Aflion Blush is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Buttery', while the Outemu Dustproof Red does not have any specific descriptors. Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a unique tactile experience and sound profile, the Aflion Blush may be the way to go. 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
60g
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
The Aflion Blush and the Outemu Dustproof Red both feature polycarbonate top housing material, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate lends itself well to switches with RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound profile, both switches benefit from the polycarbonate top housing material.
However, when it comes to bottom housing material, the Aflion Blush utilizes nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red also uses nylon for its bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the top housing may impact the sound when a key is released, the qualities brought by the nylon bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, both the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Dustproof Red offer a blend of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials to create a unique sound profile. While the polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, the nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the overall typing experience. Whether it's the Aflion Blush with its clear polycarbonate top housing or the Outemu Dustproof Red with its nylon bottom housing, both switches offer a balance of materials that cater to different aspects of sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, it becomes evident that the Blush has a lighter actuation force of None grams, while the Dustproof Red has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Blush requiring 58 grams and the Dustproof Red requiring 60 grams to bottom out. This means that while the Blush might offer a lighter touch for typing, the Dustproof Red provides a slightly more substantial typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Blush could be the better option, while those who prefer a bit more resistance might lean towards the Dustproof Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, it is clear that there is a difference in how far each switch travels. The Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Dustproof Red has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Dustproof Red has a longer travel distance compared to the Blush. In general, a shorter travel distance can provide a faster response time, making it ideal for gamers seeking quick reactions. On the other hand, a longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience desired.
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 Red 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 known for its impressively smooth, full, and snappy feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. This switch provides a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys with ease. In terms of sound, the Blush produces a low-pitched, poppy sound signature that offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch does not have any specific subjective qualities mentioned for sound or feel. Overall, if you are looking for a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Aflion Blush linear switch would be a solid choice. With the Dustproof Red switch, while the specific qualities are unknown, you may still achieve similar results in terms of overall performance and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prioritize a smooth, full, and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature, the Aflion Blush switch with its longer, two-stage spring might be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and do not mind sacrificing specific sound and feel characteristics for durability and dustproofing features, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch could be the right choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and priorities when it comes to mechanical keyboard switches.
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