Aflion Blush vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blush and the HMX SU both offer distinct experiences for typists and gamers alike, despite both belonging to the linear switch category. The Blush switch is celebrated for its longer, two-stage spring that enhances the typing experience with a smooth, full, and snappy feel, complemented by its low-pitched, creamy, and silky sound profile, making it an appealing choice for those who favor a more tactile yet quiet experience. Meanwhile, the HMX SU boasts a robust PA12 housing and a T5 stem, providing a subtly deep sound that lends itself well to a satisfying typing experience, ideal for users looking for a slightly more grounded acoustic presence. While both switches present their unique advantages—smoothness and acoustic quality in the Blush versus the durability and sound richness of the SU—they each attract different preferences and typing habits. 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
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When it comes to the housing materials used in the Aflion Blush and the HMX SU, there are distinct contrasts between their top housings while their bottom housings are identical. The Aflion Blush features a polycarbonate top housing, which gives it a sharper and crisper sound profile. This choice of material allows the sound to resonate clearly, particularly beneficial when RGB lighting is incorporated, as polycarbonate’s translucency enhances the visual effects of such lighting. Conversely, the HMX SU utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic choice that yields a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material dampens the sound more effectively than polycarbonate, which results in a muted auditory experience. As a result, while the Blush caters to a brighter and more vibrant sound spectrum optimizing for lighting, the SU tends to foster a characteristic that is warmer and more rounded, which may appeal to users looking for a richer sound.
In analyzing the bottom housings, both the Aflion Blush and the HMX SU share the same nylon material. This shared component results in a consistent experience regarding the bottom-out sound and feel across both switches. The nylon’s inherent properties—its softness and sound-absorbent characteristics—ensure that both switches produce a deep and full auditory feedback when a key is fully pressed down. This aspect aligns with both switches, where the choice of nylon coordinates a more subdued and well-rounded acoustic profile during the bottoming action.
Ultimately, the differences lie primarily in the top housings of these switches, illustrating how the materials contribute uniquely to their overall sound characteristics. While the polycarbonate of the Aflion Blush allows for a more pronounced high-end sound, the nylon of the HMX SU results in a fuller, smoother auditory experience. Nevertheless, both switches will provide a pleasant typing experience due to their identical nylon bottom housings, which guarantees a cohesive sound profile at the moment of actuation. Thus, although the top housings cater to different auditory preferences, users can still expect a deep and satisfying sound upon key release, underscoring that the effects of housing materials can be divided based on their placement within the switch design.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Blush linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Aflion Blush has an actuation force that is currently unknown, but it features a bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium force switch. In contrast, the HMX SU boasts a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating a lighter overall feel. This difference means that the HMX SU is likely better suited for longer typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less force, while the Aflion Blush may offer a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. Overall, if you favor a heavier switch, the Blush might be preferable, while those looking for a lighter touch would likely lean towards the SU switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Aflion Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX SU offers a greater travel distance of 3.6 mm. This indicates that the Blush is the shorter option, making it potentially more responsive for gamers who prefer quicker actuation times. On the other hand, the HMX SU, with its longer distance, may appeal to users who appreciate a more substantial depth in their key presses, providing a more heartful tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth in key travel.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Blush linear switch produces a low-pitched sound signature that is characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This creates a warm auditory experience as you type, which many users find satisfying and conducive to long typing sessions. On the other hand, the specifics of the HMX SU linear switch's sound profile are not detailed, but it offers a subtle and relatively deep tone thanks to its construction with a full PA12 housing and T5 stem. The nuances present in both switches reflect how sound perception can depend significantly on both the switch design and the overall keyboard build, including the type of board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Blush switch excels with its creamy, silky, and buttery characteristics, making it one of the smoothest typing experiences available. The combination of these qualities means that users can expect a luxurious sensation with minimal resistance, allowing fingers to glide seamlessly over the keys. In contrast, the feel of the HMX SU linear switch is not specifically mentioned, leaving an unknown aspect regarding its tactile experience. This makes it less clear how it might compare directly in terms of smoothness or comfort during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Blush linear switch undoubtedly stands out with its exceptional sound profile and creamy, buttery feel, the HMX SU linear switch presents an unknown variable in that aspect of tactile sensation. Still, both switches are designed to deliver pleasant auditory experiences, albeit in different ways. For those seeking a switch with a low-pitched sound and the ultimate in smooth typing feel, the Blush is the clear recommendation, but the SU may offer its own unique qualities that remain to be fully explored.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a medium actuation force and want a smooth, rich typing experience, the Blush switch is an excellent choice. Its creamy, silky, and buttery feel, along with the low-pitched poppy sound signature, makes it ideal for users who enjoy a tactile connection to their typing, whether for gaming or prolonged writing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and are looking for a more subtle and deep sound profile, the HMX SU switch may be more up your alley, offering a lighter 50-gram bottom-out force that may be beneficial during fast-paced gaming or long typing sessions where fatigue can set in more quickly. Ultimately, consider the weight and audible feedback that aligns best with your typing habits to enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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