Aflion Blush vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blush, a linear switch, and the Outemu Ocean, a tactile switch, we can see distinct differences in their characteristics. the blush is praised for its smooth, full, and snappy feel due to its longer, two-stage spring, along with a poppy sound signature. it is described as having a low-pitched, creamy, silky, buttery feel. on the other hand, the Ocean switch from Outemu does not have a specific standout feature, but falls under a different category altogether. when choosing between these two switches, the blush may be preferred for those seeking a linear switch with a smooth feel, while the Ocean could be a good choice for individuals looking for a tactile switch. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Ocean, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in both switches ensures a clear and resonant sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience for users. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate adds a visually appealing element to the switches, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
While both the Blush and Ocean share polycarbonate as the material for their top housing, they differ in the material used for the bottom housing. The Blush features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is softer compared to polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Ocean also uses a nylon bottom housing, allowing for a similar typing experience with a focus on a deeper and fuller sound profile. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches enhances the overall sound quality and tactile feel for users.
In terms of the impact on the typing experience, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when letting go of a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housing materials creates a well-rounded typing experience for users of both the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Ocean, providing a balance between sound profile, tactile feedback, and aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it is apparent that they offer different experiences. The Aflion Blush linear switch has a bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a medium level of pressure for typing. In contrast, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch requires an actuation force of 55 grams, offering a slightly lighter touch. This means that the Aflion Blush may be considered the heavier option compared to the Outemu Ocean. Both switches have an unknown force for one of the parameters, making it difficult to determine if one is definitively lighter or heavier overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing intensity and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Ocean tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Blush offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Ocean provides a deeper keystroke experience for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches have their advantages, with the Blush offering speed and the Ocean offering depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Ocean 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 is known for its low-pitched, bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's sound quality remains unknown. Both switches may provide a satisfactory auditory experience, but the Blush's poppy sound signature could be preferred by those who enjoy a slightly more pronounced typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch is described as offering a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, thanks to its smooth and snappy feel. The Outemu Ocean tactile switch's tactile feel is not defined. This suggests that the Blush switch may give a smoother and more fluid typing sensation compared to the Ocean tactile switch, which might lack the same level of buttery smoothness.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blush linear switch seems to excel in both sound and feel aspects, providing a low-pitched and poppy sound along with a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's qualities in sound and feel are unknown, making it harder to draw a direct comparison. If you prefer a switch with a smooth and snappy feel accompanied by a bass-heavy sound, the Blush switch might be the perfect choice for you. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, you should consider your typing preferences. If you value a smooth, snappy, and poppy typing experience with a medium bottom out force, then the Aflion Blush linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with unavailable bottom out force and are looking for a different tactile typing experience, you may want to opt for the Outemu Ocean tactile switch. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what type of typing feel and sound signature you prefer in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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