Aflion Blush vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blush and the Haimu Viola Tricolor stand out in their respective categories. The Blush, a linear switch, is Aflion's finest linear offering, known for its impressively smooth, full, and snappy typing feel. With its longer, two-stage spring and long pole design, it not only offers a satisfying tactile response but also produces a distinctive poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor, a tactile switch, is designed to provide a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds a touch of character to your typing experience. It strikes a perfect balance between pronounced tactility and user comfort, delivering a sharp sensation without becoming overly tactile. While these general pointers can help guide your decision, diving deeper into the specifics will ultimately allow you to determine which switch suits your preferences best.

By the numbers

Aflion Blush Linear

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

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Housing materials

The Aflion Blush and the Haimu Viola Tricolor share similar housing materials, with both switches utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice of material allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. As a result, users can expect comparable results in terms of sound quality and visual aesthetics when it comes to the top housing of both switches.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches differ. The Blush employs a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, similarly providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Like the Blush, this is due to nylon's ability to absorb sound effectively. Therefore, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel.

It is important to note that while the top and bottom housings of the two switches differ, they both contribute significantly to the overall sound profile. Pressing down on the switch will primarily demonstrate the qualities of the bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a more notable influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect variations in the sound profile between the Aflion Blush and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, with the bottom housing exerting its impact during typing and the top housing becoming more noticeable when keys are released.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, several notable differences can be observed. Firstly, the actuation force of both switches is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare this aspect. However, the Blush has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which can be considered medium. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy.

Considering the weight factor, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Blush more suitable, as its lower bottom out force allows for extended typing durations without excessive fatigue. This lighter weight may be favored by those using keyboards for work or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor offers a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy bottom out force. This can provide a stronger push feel, appealing to individuals seeking a more robust and tactile typing experience.

Although the specifics of actuation force are unavailable for both switches, it can be assumed that the actuation forces of the Blush and Viola Tricolor may have similar characteristics due to their comparable bottom out forces. Therefore, individuals desiring similar results in terms of actuation force may find both switches to be equally suitable.

Overall, the Aflion Blush exhibits a lighter bottom out force, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor offers a slightly heavier tactile feedback. The choice between the two would depend on personal preferences, with some opting for a lighter touch for extended usage, while others seek a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly popular in recent times. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer switches with shorter travel distances as they allow for faster response times. However, it is important to note that personal preference plays a significant role in this decision. Some individuals may find the shorter travel distance of the Blush to be more responsive and suitable for their needs, while others may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Viola Tricolor for a more substantial and satisfying key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on one's personal preferences and whether they prioritize quick responsiveness or a deeper key press sensation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blush linear switch offers a low-pitched profile. This means that it has a deep, bass-heavy, and mellow sound during key presses. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is described as bassy and low-pitched as well. Both switches provide a rich and deep sound, adding a pleasant auditory experience to your typing. However, it's important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch is often described as creamy, silky, and buttery. This implies that typing on these switches offers an exceptionally smooth and effortless experience. The Blush switch features a longer, two-stage spring that contributes to its smooth and snappy feel. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is described as accented and invigorating. These switches offer a prominent amount of tactility, providing satisfying feedback without being overwhelming. They have a moderate to firm actuation force, resulting in a snappy and reactive typing sensation.

In conclusion, the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blush switch provides a poppy and low-pitched sound with a smooth and buttery feel. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch delivers a thuddy and punchy sound with an accentuated tactile feedback. Both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. It's important to consider your personal preferences and desired typing experience when choosing between these switches.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when choosing between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium bottom out force, a smooth and snappy typing experience, and a poppy sound signature, the Blush switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a thuddy and punchy sound profile, and a tactile switch with a balanced feedback, the Viola Tricolor switch is worth considering. While both switches have a low-pitched sound profile, the Blush offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Viola Tricolor provides a deeper and richer sound resembling bass tones. In terms of feel, the Blush switch offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, while the Viola Tricolor switch is described as accented and invigorating. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire. By considering these factors, you can make an informed choice and find the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Blush Linear

$6.00

$4.07 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

Learn more