Aflion Blush vs. Akko Rosewood

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect linear mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options are the Aflion Blush and the Akko Rosewood, both of which offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Blush switch has gained acclaim for its exceptionally smooth, full, and snappy typing feel, attributable to its longer two-stage spring and long pole design, which together create a low-pitched, creamy, and buttery sound profile that many typists adore. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood switch captivates users with its deep, satisfying thocky sound, enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant that ensures a satisfying auditory experience right out of the box. While the Blush switch might appeal to those who prioritize a smooth and responsive feel, the Rosewood switch is ideal for users who appreciate rich, resonant feedback during their typing sessions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Aflion Blush Linear

Akko Rosewood Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the Akko Rosewood, the most notable difference lies in their top housings. The Blush features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This effect is largely due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, allowing for resonant acoustic qualities that brighten each keystroke. Furthermore, its translucency enhances the RGB lighting effects, making it an appealing choice for users who enjoy customized lighting in their mechanical keyboards. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood makes use of a nylon top housing, a material known for its softer properties, leading to a deeper and more rounded sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, yielding a subtler auditory response that may be more pleasing for those who prefer a less intrusive typing experience.

In terms of the bottom housings, both the Aflion Blush and the Akko Rosewood utilize nylon, providing them with similar characteristics. The nylon material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, due to its sound-absorbing qualities. This similarity means that regardless of the differentiation in their top housings, users can expect a consistent design principle from the bottom housings that prioritizes comfort and sound dampening. As such, the bottoming out experience for both switches will create a uniform tactile satisfaction, while also lessening any undesired noise that might otherwise accompany harder plastics.

Ultimately, the combination of a polycarbonate top housing in the Aflion Blush and a nylon top housing in the Akko Rosewood results in divergent acoustic characteristics, highlighting the fundamental contrast between sharpness and warmth in sound profiles. This distinction allows typists to choose according to their preferences, whether they are seeking a more defined auditory response or a softer, subtler keystroke experience. However, because both switches share the same nylon material in their bottom housings, they maintain a shared foundation that ensures a certain level of consistency in tactile feedback and overall keystroke satisfaction. Thus, even amidst foundational differences in sound between the two models, a satisfying and rich experience is guaranteed due to the familiar dynamics of the nylon material used in the bottom housing.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Blush linear switch to the Akko Rosewood linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Blush has an unknown actuation force but features a bottom out force of 58 grams, which falls into the medium category. In contrast, the Rosewood has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the lighter option of the two. This lighter actuation force in the Rosewood allows for easier and longer typing sessions, making it ideal for those who prioritize comfort during extended use. The heavier bottom out force of the Blush, however, may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when bottoming out. Consequently, if one is looking for a keyboard switch that requires less effort to engage the keystroke, the Akko Rosewood would be the preferable choice, while users who enjoy a firmer typing experience might lean towards the Aflion Blush.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, the Blush stands out with a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Rosewood offers a longer distance of 4 mm. This difference highlights a key consideration for users: the Blush switch provides a shorter, more responsive feel that is often favored by gamers looking for quick actuation, whereas the Rosewood's longer travel distance may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. If you prefer a switch that feels less abrupt and offers a deeper keypress, the Rosewood would likely be the better choice. On the other hand, for those who prioritize speed and quick response times, the Blush’s shorter travel distance may be more beneficial. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your typing preferences and the intended use of the keyboard.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Aflion Blush switch delivers a low-pitched audio profile that is characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This poppy sound signature allows for an engaging experience that enhances the overall typing atmosphere. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood switch is known for producing a deep, satisfying thocky sound straight out of the box, largely attributed to a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant. While both switches offer unique auditory experiences, the Blush leans toward a more popy presentation, while the Rosewood focuses on a rich and resonant thock.

When it comes to feel, the Blush switch is exceptionally praised for its creamy, silky, and buttery attributes. This combination makes for a remarkably smooth and buttery typing experience, as the longer, two-stage spring facilitates an effortless glide across each keystroke. Such characteristics work in tandem to minimize resistance, resulting in a seamless typing sensation. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Rosewood switch is not provided, leaving its tactile properties unspecified. Thus, if one values a smooth and fluid typing experience, the Blush is distinctly favorable in this regard.

In summary, the Aflion Blush and the Akko Rosewood switches each present their own unique auditory and tactile offerings. The Blush excels in delivering a low-pitched, poppy sound along with a smooth and creamy feel, while the Rosewood provides a deep, thocky sound. However, without specific descriptors for the Rosewood's feel, it's difficult to directly compare the tactile experiences. Ultimately, if you lean towards a smooth, satisfying typing experience, the Blush is an excellent choice, while the Rosewood promises a delightful auditory experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience and sound. If you favor a medium actuation force combined with a creamy and silky feel, the Blush switch may be your best bet. Its snappy and smooth characteristics make it ideal for gamers or typists who appreciate a more responsive keypress, along with a low-pitched sound that can complement a serene workspace. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of only 50 grams, the Rosewood switch could be more suitable for your typing style. Its deep, thocky sound adds a satisfying auditory element to your keystrokes that some users find exceptionally pleasurable. Furthermore, if you're inclined towards a seamless and effortless typing experience, the Rosewood's tune may resonate more with you. Ultimately, both switches have unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences, so consider what aspects—be it sound, feel, or actuation force—are most important to you as you make your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blush Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more