Aflion Blush vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Blush and the KTT Phalaenopsis. These switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Blush, a linear switch, is praised for its smooth and snappy typing experience, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. It also produces a poppy sound signature, adding to the overall satisfaction of typing. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis, a tactile switch, boasts a light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Its discernible tactile bump at 50g provides a satisfying sensation with each keystroke. Both switches offer unique features and benefits, catering to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the KTT Phalaenopsis have some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that resonates more clearly. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is advantageous if RGB lighting will be used.
However, the bottom housing materials differ between the Blush and the Phalaenopsis. The Blush incorporates nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound experience. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, meaning it contributes to the overall sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile.
When it comes to the feel and sound when pressing down on a key, the bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role. Therefore, the qualities of the bottom housing material will be evident in the bottom-out sound and feel. The top housing, on the other hand, influences the sound when letting go of a key. So, while the top and bottom housings differ in materials for these switches, they still play a crucial role in determining the overall sound experience.
In summary, both the Aflion Blush and the KTT Phalaenopsis utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, allowing for a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially when combined with RGB lighting. However, the Blush stands out with its nylon bottom housing, delivering a deeper and fuller sound experience due to its softer nature, while the Phalaenopsis maintains consistent sharpness and clarity with an additional polycarbonate bottom housing. Nonetheless, the importance of both the top and bottom housings in producing the desired sound and feel is evident in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Blush linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are clear differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Blush switch has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the Phalaenopsis has an actuation force of 37 grams, which is lighter. This means that the Phalaenopsis switch requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Blush switch. In terms of bottom out force, the Blush switch has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is medium, whereas the Phalaenopsis has a bottom out force of 50 grams, falling on the lighter side. This indicates that the Blush switch provides a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience when compared to the Phalaenopsis switch. If an individual prefers a lighter typing experience, they would find the Phalaenopsis switch more suitable, allowing them to type for longer periods of time. On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger push feel would benefit from the Blush switch. Overall, while the actuation force and bottom out force of these switches differ, both options offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Phalaenopsis has a longer travel distance compared to the Blush. A travel distance of 4.0mm is considered the most traditional, while 3.0mm is the shallowest. However, the trend for shorter travel distances has been growing, especially among gamers who prefer faster response times. If you value responsiveness, opting for the Blush with its shorter travel distance may be more suitable. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a deeper and more substantial feel, the Phalaenopsis with its longer travel distance would be a better choice.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 best known for its smoothness and snappy feel. This switch is highly regarded for its impressive smoothness, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. Typing on the Blush switch provides a satisfyingly smooth and full experience, making each keystroke feel effortless. Additionally, the long pole of the Blush switch contributes to a poppy sound signature, which is characterized by a lower frequency range and a deeper, more mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is known for its effortless typing and satisfying tactile bump. With a light actuation force of 37g, typing on the Phalaenopsis switch becomes effortless and minimizes finger fatigue even during prolonged typing sessions. The 50g tactile force provides a discernible tactile bump, ensuring each keystroke is a delightful experience. The Phalaenopsis switch is also described as having a bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses. The sound can be characterized by a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the Phalaenopsis switch produces a thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and satisfying when pressed and released.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blush linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blush switch provides a smooth, full, and snappy feel with a poppy sound signature, while the Phalaenopsis switch offers an effortless typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump and a bassy, thocky sound profile. These switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their needs. However, if you are looking for a smooth and buttery typing experience, both switches provide similar results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a medium bottom out force and are looking for a linear switch, the Aflion Blush would be a great choice for you. With its longer, two-stage spring, this switch provides a smooth, full, and snappy typing experience. Additionally, it offers a poppy sound signature that adds to the overall satisfaction of each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are in search of a tactile switch, the KTT Phalaenopsis would suit you well. With its light actuation force and discernible tactile bump, typing becomes effortless and finger fatigue is minimized. The 50g tactile force ensures that each keystroke is a delightful experience. Sound-wise, the Blush offers a low-pitched tone, while the Phalaenopsis provides a deeper and richer sound profile known as "thocky." In terms of feel, the Blush delivers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing sensation, while the Phalaenopsis has a stepped feel with pre-travel and/or post-travel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preferences for bottom out force, typing experience, sound profile, and feel. It's important to consider your own typing style and preferences when making a decision.
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