Aflion Blush vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Blush and the Jwick Splash Brothers are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique characteristics and benefits. The Blush switch from Aflion is widely regarded as their best linear option, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring that provides an impressively smooth and snappy typing experience. Additionally, the long pole of the Blush switch results in a satisfying poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switches from Jwick are designed with speed in mind, with shorter activation and a long pole stem that contributes to a great typing feel. These switches also offer a creamy sound signature. While both switches have their own merits, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the Jwick Splash Brothers both utilize polycarbonate material for their top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful if you plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting effects to shine through. Therefore, in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal, the Blush and the Splash Brothers offer similar results due to their shared use of polycarbonate for the top housing.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Blush is made of nylon, while the Splash Brothers also incorporate nylon for their bottom housing. The choice of nylon brings forth a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, both the Blush and the Splash Brothers offer a duller and rounder sound experience thanks to their nylon bottom housing.
Considering the split between the top and bottom housings, it's important to note that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. In this aspect, both the Blush and the Splash Brothers would showcase differences. However, since they share the same polycarbonate top housing, the overall typing experience and sound profile may still exhibit similarities.
In summary, while the Aflion Blush and the Jwick Splash Brothers differ in their choice of bottom housing material, both switches provide similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal due to their shared use of polycarbonate for the top housing. The Blush's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, while the Splash Brothers also offer a duller and rounder sound due to their nylon bottom housing. However, the impact of the top and bottom housing materials may lead to slight variations in the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, we encounter some differences. The Blush's actuation force is unknown, while the Splash Brothers also has an unavailable actuation force. However, both switches have specified bottom out forces. The Blush requires 58 grams of force for bottoming out, placing it in the medium range. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers demands a lighter 48 grams of force for bottoming out.
Considering weight preference, those seeking a lighter typing experience or who engage in extended typing sessions may lean towards the Splash Brothers. Its lighter bottom out force allows for comfortable and effortless typing, making it ideal for long writing sessions or when using the keyboard extensively at work. In contrast, some individuals prefer a stronger push feel to enhance the tactile experience of typing. Those who desire a more substantial and responsive typing experience might find the Blush to be a suitable choice. Although the actuation forces for both switches are unavailable, it is safe to assume that they will yield similar results in terms of actuation force, as these measurements are often closely aligned with the bottom out force. Overall, the Blush can be considered the heavier option with the specified 58-gram bottom out force, while the Splash Brothers is the lighter choice with a 48-gram bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is evident that there is a slight difference. The Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Splash Brothers has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If responsiveness is your main concern, opting for the Blush with its shorter travel distance may be the preferred choice. However, it is worth noting that some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt, and may prefer a switch with more depth. In that case, the Splash Brothers with its longer travel distance could be the ideal selection for those seeking a more hearty keypress.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 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 Aflion Blush linear switch is known for its smooth, full, and snappy typing feel. This is attributed to its longer, two-stage spring and long pole. In terms of sound, the Blush switch produces a low-pitched sound with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. The Blush switch can be described as creamy, silky, and buttery in feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with effortless keystrokes.
On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is also highly regarded for its typing feel. The combination of its shorter activation and long pole stem provides a great typing feel. The sound produced by the Splash Brothers switch is described as neutral, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes.
In terms of feel, the Splash Brothers switch can be described as mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished. It offers a gentle typing experience with responsive and lively keys. The typing feel is smooth and refined, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Blush and Jwick Splash Brothers switches offer impressive typing experiences. While the Blush switch has a creamy feel and low-pitched sound, the Splash Brothers switch has a mild feel and a neutral sound profile. Both switches provide a smooth and refined typing experience, with the Blush switch offering a more buttery sensation and the Splash Brothers switch being more versatile and suitable for most intents and purposes. Depending on personal preference and the desired sound profile, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force and prefer a switch with a longer, two-stage spring, the Aflion Blush linear switch is a great choice. It offers an impressively smooth and snappy typing feel, along with a poppy sound signature. The Blush switch is best known for its smooth and buttery typing experience, making it feel like you are effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys. With its low-pitched sound profile, it provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is worth considering. It has a shorter activation and a long pole stem, giving it a great typing feel. The Splash Brothers switch is best known for its mild and snappy characteristics, offering a gentle and responsive typing experience. It provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel. With its neutral sound profile, it is suitable for most intents and purposes.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blush and Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches depends on your preference for bottom out force, typing feel, and sound profile. Consider whether you prefer a medium or light bottom out force, along with the specific feel and sound characteristics described for each switch. By understanding your preferences, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
Mentioned in this article
