Aflion Blush vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blush and the Gateron Smoothie Silver are two popular options to consider. The Aflion Blush is known for its longer, two-stage spring which provides a smooth, full, and snappy typing experience, along with a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver stands out for its all-POM construction, short travel distance for quick actuation, thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and feather-light touch. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and Gateron Smoothie Silver both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles, but they use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Blush features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is clear and resonant. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver has a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound. The nylon bottom housing of the Blush contributes to a fuller and rounder sound profile, while the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver adds to the deeper and more muted sound profile.
The choice of housing materials for the Aflion Blush and Gateron Smoothie Silver results in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Blush gives it a unique sound that is sharp and resonant, while the POM top housing of the Smoothie Silver produces a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Blush creates a fuller sound profile, whereas the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver contributes to a deeper tone. These differences in housing materials impact the overall typing experience and the sound produced by each switch.
Although the Aflion Blush and Gateron Smoothie Silver use different materials for their top and bottom housings, they both aim to provide a pleasing sound experience for users. The polycarbonate and nylon combination in the Blush offers a clear and fuller sound profile, while the POM materials in the Smoothie Silver result in a deeper and more unique sound. Despite their differences, both switches prioritize the sound produced during typing, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key. Overall, whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, more muted sound, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch have distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Blush has a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Smoothie Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams. The Blush requires no specific actuation force, while the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Blush is lighter in terms of bottom out force, making it easier to type on for extended periods. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver offers a lighter actuation force, providing a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, individuals who prefer a lighter touch may gravitate towards the Smoothie Silver, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Blush. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on personal preference.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch both offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. The Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Smoothie Silver has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. These differences may not be very noticeable to the average user, but for gamers seeking faster response times, the Blush with its shorter travel distance may be preferred. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the Smoothie Silver more satisfying due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming needs of the individual.
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 Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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 known for providing a smooth, full, and snappy feel due to its longer, two-stage spring design, while also offering a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is recognized for its lightning-fast actuation, thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and feather-light touch. When it comes to sound, the Blush switch is described as low-pitched, which typically gives a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the sound profile of the Smoothie Silver is not specified. In terms of feel, the Blush switch is likened to a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. Unfortunately, there is no specific description available for the feel of the Smoothie Silver switch.
Overall, the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blush switch provides a snappy feel with a poppy sound signature, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver switch boasts lightning-fast actuation, thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, although specific details about its sound and feel are not provided. Depending on personal preference, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, and choosing between them will ultimately come down to individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a creamy, silky, or buttery typing experience with a poppy sound signature, the Aflion Blush may be the better choice for you due to its longer two-stage spring and smooth feel. On the other hand, if you prioritize lightning-fast actuation with a thocky sound and feather-light touch, the Gateron Smoothie Silver might be more suitable with its all-POM construction and short travel distance. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you prioritize the most.
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