Aflion Blush vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blush and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both stand out as top choices, each offering unique features to cater to different preferences. The Blush is revered for its smooth and snappy feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring and poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is designed with gamers in mind, boasting light actuation force and shortened travel distance for quick and effortless keystrokes. While the Blush excels in providing a full and creamy typing experience, the V3 Silver Pro offers a high-pitched and polished feel that is perfect for fast-paced gaming. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Despite both switches having the same material for their top housing, the impact of the material on the overall sound experience may differ based on other factors such as keycap material or the overall design of the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Aflion Blush utilizes nylon, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is considered a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, which results in better sound absorption and a duller, rounder sound. Similarly, the Akko V3 Silver Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the importance of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The use of nylon in the bottom housing enhances the overall typing experience by creating a more satisfying sound profile.
The different housing materials used in the Aflion Blush and the Akko V3 Silver Pro showcase how variations in material can impact the sound and feel of mechanical switches. While both switches have polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile and nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound experience, the distribution of these materials between the top and bottom of the switch can influence the overall typing experience. Understanding the distinct qualities of each housing material can help keyboard enthusiasts choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Blush has a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, while its actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a slightly lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the V3 Silver Pro the lighter option of the two switches. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the V3 Silver Pro would be the preferred choice due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Blush may be a better option despite its higher bottom out force. In either case, both switches offer unique typing experiences, with the Blush providing a slightly heavier feel and the V3 Silver Pro offering a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Consequently, the keypress feel and actuation point will be similar for both switches, providing a consistent typing experience. It is worth noting that the travel distance of both switches is relatively short compared to other switches on the market, which may appeal to users looking for a more responsive typing 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 Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 is known for its low-pitched and poppy sound signature, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that can be quite pleasing to the ears. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is characterized by its high-pitched sound, giving a sharp and crisp auditory feedback with each keystroke. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a more rich and bassy sound profile with the Blush or a sharper sound with the V3 Silver Pro.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch is often described as creamy, silky, and buttery, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience thanks to its lubricated components. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offers an easy-to-press, feathery, and polished feel, with light actuation force and reduced resistance for a responsive and comfortable typing session. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience, whether it be for gaming, work, or everyday use, by providing different levels of smoothness and tactility.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. While the Blush provides a low-pitched sound and a creamy, silky typing feel, the V3 Silver Pro offers a high-pitched sound and an easy-to-press, polished typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a more bass-heavy, mellow tone or a sharp, crisp sound, along with a smooth, buttery feel or a feathery, polished sensation, both switches excel in their own right and will provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider the following key factors. If you prioritize a medium bottom out force, a smooth and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature, and a low-pitched sound profile, then the Aflion Blush might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force, effortless keystrokes with a bassy sound, and a high-pitched sound profile, then the Akko V3 Silver Pro could be the better option, especially for gaming scenarios where quick responses are essential. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and intended use case.
Mentioned in this article
