Aflion Blush vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Blush and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features and qualities. The Blush, a linear switch, is known for its impressively smooth and snappy typing experience. Its longer, two-stage spring contributes to the switch's full and buttery feel, while the long pole provides a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower), a tactile switch, is best suited for those seeking maximum tactility. Typing on these switches elicits a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack. With its resonant and sharp characteristics, this switch offers an invigorating typing experience. While these general pointers provide a glimpse into what each switch has to offer, let's dive deeper to help you make the best decision based on your individual preferences.
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Blush features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer pleasing sounds, they differ in terms of pitch and clarity.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Blush incorporates a nylon material, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the POM T1 (Sunflower) features a POM bottom housing, resulting in a deep and relatively muted sound. Both materials provide a unique sound experience, but vary in terms of intensity and resonance.
It is important to note that the impact of the housing materials is divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing significantly impacts the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Aflion Blush and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) share some similarities in their housing materials, the resulting sound profiles differ based on the specific qualities of each material and their positioning within the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it is important to consider the weight of the switches. Unfortunately, the actuation force for both switches is unknown. However, the Aflion Blush has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which can be considered medium, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Aflion Blush may be more suitable as it allows for longer periods of typing without experiencing fatigue. This lighter actuation force can be beneficial for individuals who use their keyboards for work or indulge in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who seek a more substantial and stronger push feel may prefer the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch with its heavier bottom out force. This provides a more pronounced typing experience, catering to those who prefer a more tactile and satisfying keystroke.
Although both switches have unknown actuation forces, by considering their respective bottom out forces, it can be inferred that the Aflion Blush is the lighter option while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is the heavier option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it is clear that the Blush has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the POM T1 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Blush's 3.3 mm travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a popular choice for gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, the POM T1's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. This can be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - whether one prefers a quicker response time or a more satisfying key press sensation.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blush linear switch offers a low-pitched tone. This means that it has a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has a resonant sound profile. This means that it has a higher-pitched sound and provides an immersive auditory experience. The sound of both switches can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery. These descriptors indicate that it offers a smooth and effortless typing experience. The keys glide under your fingers, providing a seamless and uniform sensation. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is described as sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating. This means that it provides a high level of tactility with a distinct and strong tactile bump. The typing experience feels alive and responsive.
Based on the available information, the Aflion Blush linear switch excels in providing a smooth and snappy typing feel, with a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offers sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack sound. Both switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Aflion Blush switch might be the better choice. However, if you prefer a sharp and invigorating tactile feedback with a resonant and clean sound, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is the way to go. Keep in mind that individual preferences may vary, and it's always recommended to try out different switches before making a final decision.
Conclusion
In closing, when making a choice between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you value a smooth and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature, then the Blush switch might be the perfect fit for you. With its longer, two-stage spring and buttery feel, typing on the Blush switch feels effortless and seamless. On the other hand, if you prioritize maximum tactility and a satisfying clean clack, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is the way to go. Its sharp tactility and invigorating feel provide a pronounced feedback and an immersive typing sensation. Additionally, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a resonant, higher-pitched sound profile for an enhanced auditory experience. Overall, both switches have their unique characteristics and it's important to consider your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel when making a decision.