Aflion Blush vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blush linear switch to the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is essential to consider their unique features and characteristics. The Aflion Blush is revered for its smooth and snappy feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring and long pole design, which also contributes to its poppy sound signature. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch does not have specific standout features but offers a different typing experience. The Blush is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Buttery', while the Silent Ocean lacks any categorization. Depending on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience, you may choose the Blush for its distinct characteristics or the Silent Ocean for a more straightforward typing experience. 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
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Both the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Silent Ocean feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the way the switch feels when pressing down and releasing a key may vary.
In contrast, the Blush's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Silent Ocean also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of the switches allows for a more muted and satisfying typing experience.
When comparing the two switches, it is evident that the top and bottom housing materials play a crucial role in the overall sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing that delivers a sharp and crisp sound, the different bottom housing materials - nylon for both switches - contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Depending on personal preference for sound and typing feel, users may find one switch more appealing over the other based on the qualities brought by their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is evident that they have some differences. The Blush has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter than the Silent Ocean, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 58 grams for the Blush and 65 grams for the Silent Ocean. This means that while the Blush requires a lighter touch to initiate a keystroke, both switches provide a similar typing experience when bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter actuation force, the Blush may be the preferred choice, while those looking for a bit more resistance may lean towards the Silent Ocean. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Blush has a shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Ocean. The 3.3 mm travel distance on the Blush provides a quicker response time, which may be preferred by gamers looking for increased speed. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance on the Silent Ocean offers a deeper press, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming 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 Silent 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 offers a low-pitched tone with a bass-heavy and mellow quality, providing a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, information on the sound of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is currently unavailable. The sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Blush linear switch is renowned for its creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. These descriptors signify a smooth, effortless, and uniform keystroke sensation that allows for a seamless typing experience. In contrast, details regarding the typing feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch are not provided at this time.
Considering all available information, it is evident that the Aflion Blush linear switch excels in both sound and feel aspects, offering a smooth, full, and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature. While specifics about the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch are not known, if the Blush and Ocean switches share similar characteristics, users can expect similarly impressive results in terms of sound and feel. It is important to consider personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches to ensure the best fit for individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, you should opt for the Blush if you prefer a smoother, snappier typing experience with a medium bottom out force of 58 grams. The Blush's long, two-stage spring offers a unique feel and sound signature that sets it apart from other linear switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams and a quieter typing experience, the Silent Ocean might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force in order to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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