Aflion Blush vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blush and Gateron Type L linear switches offer unique qualities to consider. The Aflion Blush is praised for its smooth and snappy feel, thanks to its longer two-stage spring and poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L stands out for being the lightest in its series, requiring only 45g to bottom out, and offering an elegant sound signature on the deeper end of the spectrum. While the Blush is described as low-pitched, creamy, silky, buttery and the Type L as neutral, subdued, feathery, easy-to-press, both switches have their own distinct characteristics that may appeal to different preferences. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
The Aflion Blush and the Gateron Type L both utilize nylon as their bottom housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. While both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound, the difference lies in the materials used for their top housings.
On the other hand, the Aflion Blush features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. In contrast, the Gateron Type L uses a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
In conclusion, while the bottom housings of both the Aflion Blush and the Gateron Type L are composed of nylon, the top housings differ significantly in material and sound profile. The Aflion Blush's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Gateron Type L's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches provide unique sound profiles based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a sharper or fuller typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, we find that the Blush has a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Type L has a bottom out force of 45 grams, making the Type L the lighter of the two. The Blush does not have a specified actuation force, while the Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams. This means that the Type L requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Blush. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Type L more to their liking, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Blush with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Type L linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Blush has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Type L. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have an impact on the overall typing experience. The Blush will provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those who prioritize speed, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Type L's longer travel distance may feel more satisfying for users who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer their own advantages, so choosing between them will ultimately depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blush linear switch offers a low-pitched and poppy sound signature, giving a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a satisfying pop upon actuation. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound profile, leaning towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum for a quieter typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound, the Blush may be more suited for those who enjoy a distinct and lively typing sound, while the Type L might be preferred by those looking for a more subtle and less intrusive auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience with minimal resistance and effortless keystrokes. In contrast, the Gateron Type L linear switch is characterized as feathery and easy-to-press, providing a light actuation force that minimizes finger fatigue and enhances the typing experience with gentle resistance. Depending on your typing style and preference for key feel, the Blush may cater to those seeking a luxurious and smooth typing sensation, while the Type L may appeal to users looking for a lightweight and easy-to-press switch for prolonged typing sessions.
Overall, both the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Blush excels in providing a distinct and lively typing sound with a smooth and buttery typing feel, the Type L stands out for its quieter and more feathery typing experience with easy-to-press keys. Depending on your personal preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that whether you choose the Blush or the Type L, you can expect similar levels of quality and performance in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a smoother, snappier feel with a poppy sound signature and a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, then the Blush switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter, easier-to-press switch with a deeper sound profile and a bottom out force of only 45 grams, the Type L switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences for both sound and feel.