Aflion Blush vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Blush and the SP-Star Polaris Purple are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Blush, a linear switch, is renowned for its impressively smooth and snappy typing feel. With its longer, two-stage spring and long pole, this switch provides a satisfyingly full sensation while typing, accompanied by a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is a tactile switch that offers an exhilarating typing experience thanks to its prominent tactile bump. The snappy sound profile further enhances the overall feeling while typing. While the Blush offers a creamy and silky typing experience, the Polaris Purple provides a polished and mildly tactile feedback. These general pointers should give you an idea of what to expect from each switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the SP-Star Polaris Purple share many similarities, as they both use polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it especially beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting effects to shine through. Thus, users can expect similar sound profiles and visual aesthetics from these switches when it comes to their top housings.
However, a notable difference arises when comparing the bottom housings of these switches. The Blush incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the Polaris Purple utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which aligns with the characteristics of its top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that enhances clarity and resonance in sound production. Consequently, the bottom housing will have a considerable impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, differentiating the Aflion Blush and the SP-Star Polaris Purple in terms of typing experience.
In summary, while both the Aflion Blush and the SP-Star Polaris Purple exhibit similar sound profiles and visual appeal in their top housings due to the use of polycarbonate, their bottom housings diverge substantially. The Blush's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing complements its top housing, strengthening clarity and resonance. Therefore, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preferences in terms of typing sound and overall feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is important to note that the actuation force for both switches is unavailable, meaning the exact force required to trigger a keystroke is unknown. However, we can still compare and contrast their bottom out forces. The Aflion Blush has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which falls into the medium range. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple has a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.
Considering weight is a crucial factor when choosing a switch, the lighter weight of the Aflion Blush may be preferable for individuals who value extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force can contribute to reduced fatigue, allowing for comfortable and efficient keystrokes over an extended period.
Meanwhile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple with its heavier bottom out force provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. This increased resistance can offer a satisfying tactile feedback, giving the typist or gamer a greater sense of control and precision. The medium-heavy bottom out force of the Polaris Purple switch is suitable for individuals who derive satisfaction from a more pronounced keystroke sensation.
In conclusion, while the actuation forces of both switches are unavailable, the Aflion Blush and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches can be compared based on their known bottom out forces. The Aflion Blush is lighter with a medium 58-gram bottom out force, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple is slightly heavier with a medium-heavy 67-gram bottom out force. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference, with the Aflion Blush ideal for those desiring lighter actuation and extended typing sessions, and the Polaris Purple suitable for individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Polaris Purple has a longer distance compared to the Blush. The Blush falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which is favored by gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Polaris Purple provides a more substantial and deeper feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference. Those who prioritize responsiveness may opt for the Blush, while individuals who prefer a more pronounced depth may lean towards the Polaris Purple.
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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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 Blush switch from Aflion is best known for its impressively smooth and snappy type feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. This switch also offers a full and poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch is known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience, provided by a big tactile bump. The sound profile of the Polaris Purple is described as snappy, while the sound of the Blush is low-pitched, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
When it comes to feel, the Blush switch can be described as creamy, silky, and buttery. It offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The Polaris Purple switch, on the other hand, is described as mild and polished. It provides a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, minimizing friction and ensuring smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the Blush linear switch and the Polaris Purple tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Blush switch excels in its smooth and snappy type feel, providing a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch offers an exhilarating tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
If you are looking for a smooth and creamy typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Blush switch will be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a snappy sound and a polished finish, the Polaris Purple switch will be more appealing. Both switches provide their own set of advantages and can deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and snappy linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Aflion Blush is the way to go. It offers a longer, two-stage spring and a poppy sound signature that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the SP-Star Polaris Purple is a great choice. It has a big tactile bump that provides an exhilarating typing feel, along with a snappy sound profile.
In terms of sound, the Blush has a low-pitched tone, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using it at home or at work.
When it comes to feel, the Blush offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. It has a smooth and buttery sensation, with enhanced smoothness and minimized resistance when pressing and releasing the keys. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple provides a mild and polished typing experience. It offers a gentle feel with a safe middle-ground zone, along with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch depends on your personal preference for the type of switch, bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel you are looking for. Both switches have their own unique qualities and can greatly enhance your typing experience.
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