Aflion Blush vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blush and the HMX Sunset Gleam present two intriguing options for enthusiasts of linear switches. The Aflion Blush stands out with its longer two-stage spring, delivering a smooth, full, and snappy typing experience, complemented by a low-pitched, creamy sound signature that many users find both pleasing and satisfying. Conversely, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, captivates with its perfect blend of materials, providing a subtle top-out sensation paired with an enjoyable clack, all enhanced by the factory lube that HMX is famous for. Those seeking a silky experience may lean towards the Blush for its buttery feel, while those who appreciate a bit more auditory feedback might find the Sunset Gleam more appealing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that aligns with your preferences.

By the numbers

Aflion Blush Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Blush and HMX Sunset Gleam both feature a polycarbonate top housing that significantly influences their acoustic performance. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which yields a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This characteristic results in a crisper audio experience during use, making it a favored choice among mechanics who prioritize bright and clear sounds. Both switches leverage the translucent quality of polycarbonate to allow RGB lighting to shine through effectively, enhancing their visual appeal. Consequently, users of either the Blush or the Sunset Gleam can expect similar auditory feedback from their top housing, resulting in heightened clarity and resonance.

In contrast, the bottom housing of the two switches is made of nylon, a material often celebrated for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. When pressed, switches utilizing nylon effectively absorb sound due to the material's relative softness. This characteristic imparts a rounder, more subdued sound during bottoming out, making for a more pleasant typing experience for those who prefer the fullness often associated with softer materials. Since both the Blush and Sunset Gleam utilize nylon for their bottom housing, users will find comparable sound qualities when typing, as the nylon contributes to the auditory depth that underpins the typing experience for both switches.

Ultimately, the contrasting yet complementary properties of the housings create a balanced sound profile in both the Aflion Blush and the HMX Sunset Gleam. With polycarbonate at the top and nylon at the bottom, users enjoy a well-rounded auditory response that combines crisper highs with richer lows. While the top housing enhances clarity and brightness, the bottom housing deepens the overall sound signature, ensuring that both switches offer a unique and cohesive typing experience. Therefore, regardless of the switch chosen, users can be assured of a harmonious blend of sound qualities that satisfy diverse auditory preferences.

Weight

The Aflion Blush linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch present a contrasting typing experience due to their differing actuation and bottom out forces. The Blush has an unknown actuation force, but a bottom out force of 58 grams, categorized as medium. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This difference makes the Sunset Gleam a preferable choice for those who favor a lighter feel, particularly during extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, while the Blush may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial push. Given these factors, the Aflion Blush is heavier overall due to its higher bottom out force, with the Sunset Gleam offering a lighter touch and potentially a more effortless typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, the Blush measures 3.3 mm, while the Sunset Gleam is slightly longer at 3.5 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm means that if you're seeking a more responsive experience, the Blush's shorter travel distance may be preferable for quicker actuation and faster response times, which is often favored by gamers. Conversely, the Sunset Gleam, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel that some users appreciate, as it can lead to a more pronounced tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your individual preferences regarding depth and responsiveness; the Blush is the shorter option, whereas the Sunset Gleam is the longer one.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Aflion Blush switch produces a low-pitched sound, characterized by its bass-heavy and mellow tone. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience while typing. The Sunset Gleam's sound profile is not detailed, leaving an unknown quality in its acoustic performance. However, it's important to note that the overall sound can vary significantly based on the keyboard's construction and the keycap materials used, meaning that users might find their own unique sound signatures when using either switch in a customized setup.

When focusing on feel, the Blush switch stands out with descriptors like "creamy," "silky," and "buttery." These qualities indicate a typing experience that is smooth and fluid, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys with minimal resistance. This results in a highly satisfying tactile feedback during typing sessions. The Sunset Gleam switch, in contrast, lacks detailed descriptors about its feel, leaving some uncertainty about its typing sensation. This might appeal to users willing to explore or who prefer a switch with an undisclosed tactile character, potentially providing a unique experience upon use.

In conclusion, both the Aflion Blush and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches cater to different preferences, especially regarding sound and feel. The Blush is highlighted for its low-pitched sound and an exceptionally smooth typing experience, making it potentially more suited for those who prioritize a refined auditory and tactile interaction. Meanwhile, the Sunset Gleam remains an enigma in terms of both sound and feel, which could ultimately lead to a unique typing experience if users are open to discovering its characteristics. Ultimately, while the Aflion Blush offers a clearer set of qualities, the Sunset Gleam presents an adventurous option for those curious about the undiscovered potential within mechanical switches.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. If you appreciate a slightly heavier keypress with a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams and a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, the Blush switch would likely be your ideal fit. It offers a satisfying, full-bodied feel that excels in providing a smooth and poppy sound signature paired with a bass-heavy tone, which can create a more pronounced auditory feedback during your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 48 grams, the HMX Sunset Gleam boasts a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack sound with excellent factory lube, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more nimble, effortless typing experience. In essence, choose the Blush for a richer tactile sensation and distinctive sound profile, while the Sunset Gleam is suited for those who favor a quicker response and a lighter keystroke. With these considerations in mind, you'll be well-equipped to select the switch that best complements your typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blush Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more