Aflion Blush vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing and contrasting mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Lotus linear switches both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Aflion Blush is best known for its impressively smooth feel, thanks to a longer, two-stage spring that provides a snappy typing experience. The switch also offers a poppy sound signature due to its long pole design. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus lacks specific standout features but may appeal to those looking for a straightforward linear switch. Overall, the Blush is categorized as ['Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Buttery'], while the Lotus does not have specific categorizations. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
pom
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Lotus, we can see distinct differences in sound profiles and aesthetics. The Blush features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which helps produce a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Lotus utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. While both materials offer unique qualities, the Blush's polycarbonate provides a more vibrant and crisp sound compared to the Lotus's nylon.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Blush and the Lotus share the same nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches. Nylon's softness allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. As a result, the bottom housing of both switches plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key. Despite having different top housing materials, the similar nylon bottom housing of the Blush and the Lotus ensures a consistent sound profile and typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Lotus housing materials comes down to personal preference in sound and typing feel. The Blush's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and more resonant sound, ideal for those who prefer a clearer and crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the Lotus's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, catering to those who enjoy a rounder and more subdued typing sound. With a shared nylon bottom housing, both switches offer a consistent and reliable typing experience, ensuring that regardless of the housing material chosen, users can expect a high-quality performance from either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is evident that they have different weight characteristics. The Blush has a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it have a medium weight feel when typing. In contrast, the Lotus is lighter with an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference in weight makes the Lotus feel lighter and require less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Blush. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods, the Lotus may be the preferred choice. In contrast, the Blush provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired amount of force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm, meaning that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect consistent feel and feedback when using either switch. They both offer a smooth linear typing experience with a travel distance that is neither too short nor too long, striking a balance that may appeal to users who prefer a moderate key travel distance. Ultimately, whether you choose the Aflion Blush or the Outemu Lotus, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 Lotus 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 offers a low-pitched tone, resulting in a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Lotus linear switch is not available. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch is renowned for its creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. This smooth and buttery feel is achieved through the application of lubricant within the switch at the factory, resulting in a silky sensation that allows for effortless keystrokes. In contrast, details about the tactile feel of the Outemu Lotus linear switch are not provided.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blush linear switch stands out for its smooth, full, and snappy feel with a poppy sound signature, making it a top choice for those seeking a premium typing experience. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Lotus linear switch are not explicitly mentioned, it is possible to infer that both switches may offer similar results in terms of feel and sound based on the lack of contrasting information. Ultimately, individual preferences in sound and feel will determine which switch is the better fit for each user.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Blush and Outemu Lotus linear switches, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a smooth, full, and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature, the Aflion Blush linear switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and prioritize other factors such as sound and feel, the Outemu Lotus linear switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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