Aflion Blush vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blush, a linear switch, to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, a tactile switch, we find two distinct keyboard switches with their own unique characteristics. The Blush is lauded for its smooth and snappy type feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring and poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura stands out for its decadently buttery downstroke and delicate balance of tactility. While the Blush offers a low-pitched and creamy typing experience, the Purple Sakura provides a mild and neutral sound signature with a snappy response. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your preference for linear or tactile switches. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, specifically the polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, share many similarities in terms of their impact on sound profiles. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of both switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of sound quality, users can expect similar results from both switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in the tactile feel and overall typing experience. The Blush's combination of a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing may create a unique tactile response that leans towards a sharper and crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura's utilization of polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing may lead to a consistent and evenly balanced tactile feel throughout typing sessions. These differences in housing materials can ultimately affect the overall typing experience for users, providing them with options to choose based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Furthermore, the aesthetic appeal of the switches is another aspect where they may vary. The translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches allows for an added visual element, especially when paired with RGB lighting. The Blush's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials may create a visually appealing contrast, while the Purple Sakura's consistent use of polycarbonate in both housings may provide a sleek and uniform appearance. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blush and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura may come down to personal preferences in sound, feel, and aesthetics, as both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing experiences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch have some distinct differences. The Blush has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it requires very little force to trigger a keystroke, while the Purple Sakura has an actuation force of 50 grams, providing a slightly heavier touch. In terms of bottom out force, the Blush requires 58 grams to fully press the key, whereas the Purple Sakura requires 60 grams, making it slightly heavier. Overall, the Blush offers a lighter typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a gentler touch for extended periods of use, while the Purple Sakura provides a slightly stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches fall within the medium force range, ensuring a balance between ease of use and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch have slightly different travel distances. The Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Purple Sakura has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, the Blush has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more tactile feel compared to the Purple Sakura. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and the level of responsiveness 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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 praised for its low-pitched sound profile which is characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone, creating a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offers a neutral sound, making it versatile for a variety of users and settings. When it comes to feel, the Blush switch is often described as creamy, silky, and buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that feels seamless and effortless. In comparison, the Purple Sakura switch also offers a buttery sensation along with a mild and snappy response, giving users a gentle yet responsive typing experience. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Users can expect to get a similar level of satisfaction from either switch, depending on their personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences. If you enjoy a smooth and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound, the Blush switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a buttery downstroke and a balanced tactility, the Purple Sakura switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the feel and sound of the switch, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
Mentioned in this article
