Aflion Blush vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to personal preferences in typing feel and sound signature. The Aflion Blush, a linear switch, shines with its impressively smooth and snappy feel, thanks to its longer two-stage spring and long pole design. This gives it a unique low-pitched, creamy sound that many users find inviting for long typing sessions, making it an excellent option for gamers and typists looking for a seamless experience. Conversely, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offers a delightful balance with its hall effect technology, delivering a neutral sound profile that resonates with the desired "thock" while minimizing wobble for added stability. This switch is particularly appealing to those who desire a refined tactile sensation without losing the smoothness of their keystrokes. Both switches offer distinct advantages: the Aflion Blush prioritizes a quick and smooth typing experience, while the Sticky Rice (V2) emphasizes a more grounded yet refined feel. 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
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), both switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a consistent auditory experience across both models. The shared use of polycarbonate for the top housing contributes to a sound profile characterized by sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper tones. This is largely due to polycarbonate's rigidity, which aids in producing a more articulate and resonant sound. Moreover, the translucence of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal when paired with RGB lighting, making both the Aflion Blush and Sticky Rice (V2) popular choices for those who prioritize aesthetic functionality in their mechanical switches.
Conversely, when it comes to the bottom housings, both the Aflion Blush and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) feature nylon, which distinctly influences the lower-end sound characteristics of each switch. Nylon is well-known for its ability to absorb sound, leading to a deeper, fuller auditory experience that contrasts with the crisper sounds produced by the polycarbonate top. This combination of stiffer polycarbonate on top and softer nylon on the bottom means that when users engage with either switch, they will experience a unique layering of sounds: the clear tones from the top and the warmer, resonant profiles from the bottom.
Ultimately, while both the Aflion Blush and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) share similar housing materials, the differences in their configurations provide nuanced auditory experiences that cater to varying preferences. The polycarbonate top ensures sharpness and clarity, ideal for producing pronounced keystrokes, while the nylon bottom cushions sound, allowing for a softer bottoming-out feel. Users of either switch can expect a blend of characteristics that marries crisp highs with a rounded depth, thus delivering a well-rounded typing experience, analogous across both models.
Weight
The Aflion Blush linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch present distinct characteristics in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Blush switch has an unspecified actuation force but features a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is classified as medium. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is considered light. This difference in weight indicates that the Blush switch requires a more substantial push to reach the bottom, appealing to users who prefer a heavier typing feel. Meanwhile, the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a lighter experience, making it advantageous for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, if you value a heavier switch for a more tactile experience, the Blush might be more suitable, while the lighter forces of the Sticky Rice (V2) cater to those who prefer reduced effort when typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, the distinctions are quite clear. The Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Sticky Rice (V2) features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is slightly longer. This minor difference can impact user experience; the Blush may provide a quicker response for gamers who favor speed and efficiency in their keystrokes, while the Sticky Rice (V2) could offer a more substantial tactile feel for those who appreciate a deeper key press. As the market shifts towards shorter travel distances for improved responsiveness, the Blush could be a better fit for those prioritizing rapid keystrokes, whereas the Sticky Rice (V2) might appeal to users who prefer a more satisfying depth in their 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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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 that is rich and bass-heavy, contributing to a mellow auditory experience. This sound signature creates a satisfying pop, thanks to its longer pole design, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offers a neutral sound profile, characterized by a subtle "thock" that many enthusiasts crave. Though the Sticky Rice may not carry the same low pitch as the Blush, it brings a refined and balanced auditory quality that suits a variety of setups. It's important to keep in mind that both sound profiles can be affected by the keyboard's construction and keycap materials.
In terms of feel, the Blush switch excels with its creamy, silky, and buttery characteristics, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. These traits make every keystroke feel luxurious and refined, allowing for easy gliding across the keys. On the other hand, while the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is noted for delivering a super smooth keystroke and minimal wobble, specifics about its tactile feedback or overall feel remain unknown in the current context. Therefore, while the feel of the Sticky Rice switch may also be pleasing, it lacks the comprehensive description provided for the Blush switch.
In summary, the Aflion Blush linear switch offers a delightful low-pitched sound with a satisfying pop, along with an exceptionally smooth and creamy typing experience. The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) provides a neutral sound and promises a super smooth keystroke that also appeals to typists who appreciate refined sensations. Though they differ in certain sound qualities and the specific feel of the Sticky Rice switch remains unspecified, both switches can deliver enjoyable typing experiences tailored to the preferences of users. Choosing between them ultimately depends on whether you value a richer sound and smoother feel or a refined auditory quality in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium bottom-out force and a typing experience characterized by a creamy, silky, and buttery feel, the Blush is likely the better choice for you. Its unique long-spring design delivers a smooth, snappy keystroke with a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound signature, making it ideal for both gaming and everyday typing where nuance and audio feedback enhance your experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 50 grams, the Sticky Rice (V2) might be more suitable. This switch offers a well-balanced typing experience with a neutral sound that leans toward the beloved "thock," appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate minimal wobble and a refined tactile sensation. In summary, choose the Blush for a more dynamic and engaging feel, while the Sticky Rice (V2) is perfect for those seeking a smooth and understated typing experience.
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