Aflion Blush vs. Outemu Maple Leaf

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Maple Leaf offer unique experiences for users seeking different typing sensations. The Aflion Blush is a linear switch that stands out for its smooth and snappy feel, attributed to its longer, two-stage spring and long pole, which provide a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf is a tactile switch that may not have a specific standout feature but offers a different typing experience. The Blush is best described as having a low-pitched, creamy, silky, and buttery feel, while the Maple Leaf does not have specific categorizations. Choosing between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference and typing style; however, let’s delve deeper into the details so you can decide which switch is best for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Blush Linear

Outemu Maple Leaf Tactile

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The Aflion Blush and Outemu Maple Leaf switches both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The Blush utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Maple Leaf uses a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Blush allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an additional visual element to the switch. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf is a classic choice that contributes to a more rounded sound experience.

In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Aflion Blush and Outemu Maple Leaf switches utilize nylon for this component. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, with a deeper and fuller sound due to the absorbent nature of nylon. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches allows for a more consistent typing experience, as the material helps to dampen sound and create a more muted bottom-out sound. Whether you choose the Blush or the Maple Leaf, you can expect this commonality in the typing experience provided by the nylon bottom housing.

While the top and bottom housing materials of the Aflion Blush and Outemu Maple Leaf switches differ, the impact of these materials on overall sound profiles is split between the two components. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing has more of an effect on the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings allows for a more nuanced typing experience, with the specific characteristics of each material contributing to the overall sound profile of the switches. Ultimately, whether you prioritize a sharper, higher-pitched sound (Blush) or a deeper, fuller sound (Maple Leaf), both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is evident that the Blush has a lighter actuation force with None grams compared to the Maple Leaf's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blush requires 58 grams, making it lighter than the Maple Leaf's 65 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Blush, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, while the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two switches, users are likely to achieve similar results with both switches depending on their preference for lighter or heavier typing experiences.

Travel distance

The Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent travel distance from top to bottom. Both switches offer a similar tactile response and actuation point, providing a consistent typing experience. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches are equal, ensuring that users will get similar results regardless of which switch they choose.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Aflion Blush linear switch is renowned for its smooth and snappy feel, thanks to its two-stage spring design and long pole that provides a satisfying poppy sound when typing. This switch offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, making it feel like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. In contrast, details about the sound and feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch are unknown. It is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used. Ultimately, if both switches have similar qualities in sound and feel, users can expect to achieve comparable results in their typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it's important to consider your preferences in terms of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a smoother, full, and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature, the Aflion Blush linear switch with its 58-gram bottom out force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams and are looking for a tactile switch without specific sound and feel descriptors, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prefer and what feels most comfortable for you.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blush Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Maple Leaf Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more