Aflion Blush vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Blush and the Outemu Red Panda are two mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different typing preferences. The Blush switch from Aflion is a linear switch, known for its impressively smooth and snappy typing experience. With its two-stage spring and long pole, it offers a full and snappy type feel, accompanied by a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch from Outemu is a tactile switch, providing a light-medium amount of tactility while typing. It offers a unique sound profile with a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. The Red Panda switch is categorized as "thocky" and "mild". These general observations provide a basis for choosing between the two switches; however, it is essential to delve deeper into their characteristics to determine the one that suits your typing preferences best.
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
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
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
The housing materials of the Aflion Blush and Outemu Red Panda switches share several similarities. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switches that emphasize sound quality. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is advantageous for users planning to utilize RGB lighting in their keyboards.
Where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Blush utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, thereby creating a duller and rounder sound. This makes the Blush switch more suitable for those seeking a deeper, more muted typing experience.
Similarly, the Red Panda also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar sound profile to the Blush switch. The nylon material's ability to absorb sound gives the Red Panda a deeper and fuller sound when typing, ultimately creating a more subdued and rounded auditory experience.
It's important to note that the combination of the top and bottom housing materials significantly impacts the overall feel and sound of a switch. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing has a more pronounced effect on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Aflion Blush and Outemu Red Panda differ in their housing materials, the overall results in terms of sound profile and typing experience are likely to be quite similar due to the shared qualities of their polycarbonate top housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there are some noticeable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Blush switch unfortunately has an unknown weight requirement, making it difficult to compare directly. On the other hand, the Red Panda tactile switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, suggesting a relatively lighter touch is required to trigger a keystroke.
Moving on to bottom out force, we find that the Blush switch has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which can be considered medium in terms of resistance. Similarly, the Red Panda switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, also falling within the medium range. Hence, both switches provide a fairly similar level of resistance when pressed all the way down, resulting in a comparable typing experience.
Considering weight preferences, individuals who prefer lighter switches may find the Red Panda more suitable, as its actuation force is lighter at 50 grams. This allows for long periods of comfortable typing, which is ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Blush switch, even though its actuation force remains unknown. These individuals would opt for switches with heavier forces to provide a stronger push sensation.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Aflion Blush linear switch is not known, it is safe to say that the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a lighter touch, making it favorable for extended typing sessions. However, both switches have similar bottom out forces in the medium range, providing a comparable typing experience for individuals who prefer a slightly heavier resistance.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when selecting a keyboard. In the case of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, both switches have a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel the switch travel 3.3 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both the Blush and Red Panda switches provide a similar experience.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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
The Blush linear switch by Aflion is praised for its smooth, full, and snappy typing feel. This is attributed to its longer, two-stage spring and long pole, which provide a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Red Panda tactile switch offers a light-medium amount of tactility when typing and produces a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound.
In terms of sound, the Blush switch has a low-pitched tone with a bass-heavy and mellow character. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch is described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. It's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
As for the feel, the Blush switch is often described as creamy, silky, and buttery. Typing on these switches offers a smooth and buttery experience, as if gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. The Red Panda switch, on the other hand, provides a milder typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone.
In summary, the Blush linear switch offers a smooth, full, and snappy typing feel with a poppy sound signature. It is known for its creamy, silky, and buttery sensation. On the other hand, the Red Panda tactile switch provides a light-medium amount of tactility with a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. Its typing experience is described as mild and approachable. While the two switches have their own unique qualities, individuals looking for a smooth and snappy linear experience with a poppy sound should consider the Blush, while those seeking a milder tactile experience with a thocky sound might find the Red Panda switch more appealing. Nonetheless, both switches offer enjoyable typing experiences in their respective categories.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a smooth, full, and snappy typing experience, the Aflion Blush would be your best choice. The Blush switch is known for its longer, two-stage spring and its poppy sound signature. It offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing feel, making each keystroke feel effortless and seamless. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and a bassier, raindrop-like sound, the Outemu Red Panda would be more suitable for you. The Red Panda switch provides a mild and approachable typing experience, making it a safe option for most users. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
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