Aflion Blush vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Blush and the TTC Speed Silver, both of which are linear switches. The Aflion Blush is best known for its impressively smooth and snappy typing experience. Its longer, two-stage spring provides a full and buttery feel, while its long pole generates a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver is highly regarded for its fast and precise typing experience. These tactile switches offer a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile. With a reduced travel distance, they allow for quick and effortless actuation. Both switches have their merits depending on the typing experience one seeks. 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
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the TTC Speed Silver have similar housing materials for their top housing, as both utilize polycarbonate. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic contributes to a clear and resonant sound, and its translucency makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect a comparable sound experience when using either the Blush or the Speed Silver, with the top housing playing a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Blush and the Speed Silver employ nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is known for generating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. This is due to nylon's softer nature and its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. Consequently, the bottom housing greatly affects the sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Users can anticipate a duller and rounder sound experience with the use of nylon in the bottom housing for both the Aflion Blush and the TTC Speed Silver.
Although the top and bottom housings differ in material between the Blush and the Speed Silver, the overall qualities each material brings to the switch are divided accordingly. The bottom housing contributes more to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing plays a greater role in the sound produced upon releasing a key. Therefore, while the specific blend of sounds and sensations may differ slightly between the Blush and the Speed Silver due to their varied housing materials, users can still expect a comparable experience overall.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Blush linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there are some notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Blush switch has an actuation force that is undisclosed, while the Speed Silver requires 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Blush switch has a force of 58 grams, which can be considered medium, while the Speed Silver requires 55 grams, making it slightly lighter, or medium-light. Both switches fall within the medium range for bottom out force.
The weight of a switch is an important consideration for individuals who value typing endurance or seek a more substantial typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing them to type for longer durations, the Speed Silver may be a suitable choice. On the other hand, those who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may find the Blush switch more preferable due to its heavier bottom out force. However, since the actuation force of the Blush switch is undisclosed, it is difficult to directly compare it with the Speed Silver in this aspect.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Aflion Blush linear switch is unavailable, its bottom out force is heavier than that of the TTC Speed Silver linear switch. The Blush switch provides a medium typing experience, whereas the Speed Silver offers a slightly lighter, or medium-light, typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and typing endurance requirements, individuals can make an informed choice between the two switches.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Aflion Blush linear switch is 3.3 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm distance, making them suitable for those who prefer quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances for faster reactions. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, and may prefer the switch with the longer travel distance for a more satisfying keystroke experience with a hearty depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether one prioritizes a faster, snappier response or a more tactile and substantial keystroke.
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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 produces a low-pitched sound profile. This means that it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use the switch at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a low-pitched sound, the Blush switch would be a great choice, while the Speed Silver switch offers a more neutral sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch is known for offering a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. These descriptors indicate that the switch provides a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation. It feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is described as having a mild and polished feel. A mild switch offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users, as it stands in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, a polished switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. While both switches offer smooth typing experiences, the Blush switch's creamy, silky, and buttery qualities provide a more pronounced and luxurious feel compared to the mild and polished sensation of the Speed Silver switch.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blush linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blush switch has a low-pitched sound profile and provides a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, while the Speed Silver switch has a neutral sound profile and offers a mild and polished feel. If you prefer a low-pitched sound with a luxurious typing experience, the Blush switch would be an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a more neutral sound with a gentle and polished typing feel, the Speed Silver switch would be more suitable. Both switches provide smooth typing experiences, but the specific qualities mentioned distinguish them from each other.
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 is the ideal choice for you. Its longer, two-stage spring and long pole provide impressive smoothness and a poppy sound signature. Additionally, if you prefer switches with a low-pitched sound profile, the Blush is the way to go.
On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with a reduced travel distance, the TTC Speed Silver is the perfect option. With a medium-light bottom out force and a pristine sound profile, these tactile switches offer quick and effortless actuation. The Speed Silver is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you plan to use these switches at home or work.
In terms of feel, the Blush provides a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, with smooth and fluid keystrokes that effortlessly melt into each keystroke. On the other hand, the Speed Silver offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blush and TTC Speed Silver will depend on your preference for bottom out force, typing experience, sound profile, and feel. Consider your specific needs and preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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