Aflion Blush vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up are the Aflion Blush and the Gazzew U4T. The Blush, a linear switch, is known for its impressively smooth and snappy typing experience, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. It also produces a distinct poppy sound signature, adding to the overall typing satisfaction. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T, a tactile switch, offers a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. With its bassy "thock" sound profile and assertive tactile feedback, each keystroke provides both auditory and tactile satisfaction. Both switches have their unique characteristics and appeal, making it important to delve deeper into their specifics to determine which one suits your preferences best. So, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the Gazzew U4T differ in terms of their sound profiles and materials used. The Blush features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the U4T utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile. This is achieved through the softness of the blend, creating a more mellow and textured sound. The difference in sound profiles between these two housing materials offers users the option to choose between a sharper or a deeper sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Blush incorporates a nylon material, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the U4T utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, which also delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both housing materials create a similar type of sound, as they are designed to offer users a more resonant and textured typing experience. Therefore, users can expect a satisfying sound and feel when pressing down on these switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the Aflion Blush and the Gazzew U4T differ in material composition, they both contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when the key is released. Both switches aim to provide users with an enhanced typing experience by utilizing their specific housing materials to create distinct sound profiles. Whether preferring a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, mellow tone, one can choose between the Blush's polycarbonate and nylon housings or the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend for their desired sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is noteworthy that both switches have an unavailable actuation force. This means that they require a force that is not specified to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a slight difference between the two switches. The Aflion Blush has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which can be considered medium, while the Gazzew U4T has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, also falling into the medium category.
Considering weight, some users may favor a lighter switch like the Aflion Blush for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces can help reduce fatigue and allow for longer usage without straining the fingers. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Gazzew U4T, with its slightly heavier bottom out force. The additional force required to fully press down the keys can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback and a sense of solidity while typing.
In essence, while the actuation forces remain unavailable for both switches, the Aflion Blush has a lighter bottom out force of 58 grams, whereas the Gazzew U4T has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. Hence, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of actuation force, but may find a nuanced difference in the feel and feedback due to the variation in bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have different travel distances. The Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the U4T has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Blush's travel distance is shorter than the U4T's, making it a better option for those who prefer a shorter travel distance. This can be particularly beneficial for gamers who want faster response times. On the other hand, the U4T's longer travel distance might be more appealing to individuals who prefer a deeper, more satisfying keystroke. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and desired 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 Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 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 best known for its impressively smooth and snappy typing feel. It features a longer, two-stage spring that enhances the overall smoothness and adds a satisfying level of snappiness to each keystroke. Additionally, the Blush switch has a long pole that contributes to a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is recognized for its unique combination of thockiness and sharp tactility. It produces a bassy 'thock' sound profile that is deep and rich, offering auditory satisfaction with every press. The U4T switch also provides an assertive tactile feedback, allowing users to feel a distinct and crisp tactile bump with each keystroke.
When it comes to sound, the Blush switch is described as having a low-pitched tone. The lower frequency range of this switch creates a bass-heavy and mellow sound during key presses. On the other hand, the U4T switch is characterized by a bassy sound profile, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones, along with a thocky sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying. It's important to note that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Blush switch is often described as creamy, silky, and buttery. These descriptors indicate a smooth and effortless typing experience, where the fingers glide across the keys with ease. The overall typing sensation is seamless, uniform, and enhanced by the switch's lubrication or specific materials. On the other hand, the U4T switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback. With each keypress, users can feel a strong and crisp tactile bump, providing a distinct and intense tactile experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blush linear switch excels in offering a smooth, snappy typing feel with a poppy sound signature. It provides a creamy, silky, and buttery experience for those seeking a seamless and effortless keystroke. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch combines a bassy 'thock' sound profile with a satisfying tactile feedback, producing a deep, rich sound and a sharp tactile bump. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the smooth and snappy experience of the Blush switch or the harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility in the U4T switch. In terms of sound, the Blush offers a low-pitched tone while the U4T offers a bassy and thocky sound. Overall, both switches provide unique and enjoyable typing experiences, catering to different preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are a few key factors to consider. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a full and snappy feel, along with a poppy sound signature, the Blush switch might be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, with an assertive tactile feedback and a bassy 'thock' sound profile, the U4T switch would be an excellent option.
In terms of sound, the Blush switch offers a low-pitched tone, characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow sound. On the other hand, the U4T switch provides a deeper and richer sound profile, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones, along with a satisfying thocky sound during key presses.
When it comes to feel, the Blush switch offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, with an exceptionally smooth and effortless sensation. Meanwhile, the U4T switch provides a sharp tactile feedback, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keystroke.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile. Consider whether you prioritize smoothness, fullness, and snappiness or if you prefer a harmonious fusion of sharp tactility and thockiness. By carefully considering these factors, you can select the switch that best suits your typing style and brings you the most satisfaction.