Aflion Blush vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Blush, a linear switch, and the Gazzew U4Tx, a tactile switch. The Blush switch from Aflion is highly regarded for its smooth and snappy typing experience. With its longer, two-stage spring, this switch offers an impressively smooth and full feel, making it a popular choice among avid typists. Additionally, the Blush switch produces a delightful poppy sound signature, adding to the overall satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches boast a unique combination of qualities. Designed to offer a cleaner and refined sound profile, these switches provide a deep and resonant "thock" when bottoming out, while remaining whisper-quiet when topping out. The U4Tx switches also offer a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious typing experience that is both acoustically pleasing and tactile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide 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
62.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the Gazzew U4Tx have differing materials for both their top and bottom housings. The Blush features a polycarbonate top housing, while the U4Tx has a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Blush creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to the stiffness of the material. This makes it ideal for users who prioritize a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the U4Tx's proprietary plastic blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. This gives typists a more robust and resonating sound experience.
In terms of the bottom housings, the Blush utilizes a nylon material, which is a classic choice for switch housings. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is primarily because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the U4Tx incorporates its proprietary Gazzew blend material for its bottom housing. This "boba plastic" also provides a softness that contributes to a rich and deep sound profile when typing. Both the nylon and Gazzew blend bottom housings have their unique qualities that enhance the overall sound experience.
It is worth noting that the difference in top and bottom housing materials of a switch affects different aspects of the typing experience. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become apparent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. While the Blush and U4Tx have distinct housing materials, they both aim to deliver an impressive sound experience, albeit in different ways. Whether the preference leans towards a clearer and sharper sound or a richer and deeper profile, both switches offer satisfying results based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is important to consider the weight of each switch. Unfortunately, the exact actuation force for both switches is unavailable, but we can still analyze their differences. The Blush has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which can be categorized as medium. On the other hand, the U4Tx has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy.
For individuals who prefer lighter switches, the Blush may be more suitable as it allows for longer typing periods and is ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience, the U4Tx with its heavier bottom out force could provide a stronger push feel. It is important to note that without knowledge of the actuation force, it is difficult to fully compare the two switches in terms of trigger sensitivity. Nonetheless, both switches fall within the medium range for bottom out force, suggesting that users can expect similar results in terms of key travel distance and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is clear that there is a slight difference between the two. The Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the U4Tx has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both of these distances fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in recent times. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as they offer faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, opting for the Blush with its shorter travel distance would be the better choice. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt, and for them, a switch with a longer travel distance like the U4Tx might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired key feel.
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 U4Tx 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blush linear switch offers a low-pitched and poppy sound signature. This means that the switch produces a bass-heavy and mellow tone, creating a satisfying and distinctive sound during key presses. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch provides a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out, coupled with a whisper-quiet topping out sound. This switch offers a bassy sound profile, resembling the richness and depth associated with bass tones, while also being muted to minimize noise. Both switches offer unique sound qualities, with the Blush having a poppy sound and the U4Tx providing a deep and refined acoustic experience.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery. These descriptors indicate that typing on this switch offers a smooth and buttery experience, with a seamless and effortless sensation. The switch's long, two-stage spring contributes to the smoothness and snappiness of the typing feel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is characterized by its sharp tactile bump. This means that each keypress provides a distinct and intense feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience. The U4Tx switch minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, ensuring a satisfying and responsive feel.
Considering all the available information, the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blush provides a poppy sound signature and a smooth, snappy typing experience. The U4Tx, on the other hand, offers a deep and refined sound profile along with a sharp tactile bump for a luxurious typing experience. While the Blush focuses more on smoothness and the U4Tx emphasizes feedback intensity, both switches provide unique and desirable characteristics. Depending on personal preference, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience. Note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and snappy linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Aflion Blush would be an excellent choice. This switch offers a satisfying typing experience with its long, two-stage spring and long pole, providing a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a refined sound profile, the Gazzew U4Tx would be a great option. This switch combines the deep, resonant "thock" of the U4T when bottoming out with the whisper-quiet stealth of the U4 when topping out, resulting in a luxurious typing experience that is both acoustically pleasing and tactile. Additionally, the U4Tx offers a sharp and distinct tactile bump for high feedback intensity. Consider your preferences for weight, sound, and feel when choosing between these two switches, and you'll find the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard. In the end, it all comes down to your personal preference and typing style.
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