Aflion Blush vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Blush and the Wuque Studio WS Onion. The Blush is best known for its impressively smooth and full typing experience, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring and long pole design. The result is a snappy feel and a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the WS Onion stands out with its buttery smooth keystrokes, courtesy of its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. It also offers a crisp and responsive feel, along with a neutral sound profile. While these general descriptions offer a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the Wuque Studio WS Onion are both made of polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency allows for the use of RGB lighting, making it aesthetically pleasing. In terms of sound, pressing down on these switches will result in a similar experience due to the shared polycarbonate top housing.
For the bottom housing, both the Blush and the WS Onion utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on the switch. With both switches incorporating nylon for the bottom housing, the typing experience will be similar in terms of sound.
It's important to note that although the top and bottom housings have different materials, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing will primarily affect the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when you release a key. Therefore, even though there may be some distinctions due to the housing materials, the overall typing experience between the Aflion Blush and the Wuque Studio WS Onion will likely be similar.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, there are a few notable differences. Starting with the actuation force, unfortunately, the exact weight in grams is unavailable for both switches. However, it can be inferred that they both fall within the medium range, as no indication of a heavy or light actuation force is given. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Blush has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is considered medium, while the WS Onion has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy.
Weight plays a significant role in the typing experience, as it directly affects the effort required to press each key. For those who prefer a lighter switch, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue, the Blush may be the better option, assuming its actuation force aligns with their preferences. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial and forceful typing experience may find the WS Onion more suited to their needs, given its slightly higher bottom out force.
Since the actuation force is unspecified for both switches, it is possible that they could yield similar results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. In such cases, individuals who desire a lightweight switch for extended typing sessions or lengthy gaming sessions might find either the Blush or WS Onion to be suitable options. Ultimately, the decision between the two would come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the WS Onion has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Blush offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the more traditional 4 mm of the WS Onion. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Blush would be the more suitable choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper key press may find the WS Onion's longer travel distance more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference and whether a shorter or longer travel distance is preferred.
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 Wuque Studio WS Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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 is characterized by a low-pitched tone, offering a bass-heavy and mellow sound profile. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch has a neutral sound profile, meaning it has a moderate tone that is suitable for various purposes. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so your specific setup may have an impact.
In terms of feel, both switches provide a smooth and satisfying typing experience. The Aflion Blush switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, offering a gliding sensation with minimal resistance. Similarly, the WS Onion switch is also characterized as buttery and polished, providing a seamless and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In terms of feel, both switches aim to deliver a smooth and fluid typing sensation.
Taking all the available information into account, it is clear that the Aflion Blush and Wuque Studio WS Onion switches offer similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches prioritize smoothness and provide a satisfying typing experience. If you choose either of these switches, you can expect a smooth and buttery feel while typing, with the Blush offering a slight emphasis on low-pitched sound and the WS Onion providing a more neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Aflion Blush would be a fantastic choice. This switch is well-known for its impressively smooth and snappy feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. Additionally, the Blush offers a poppy sound signature, and its low-pitched profile gives it a bass-heavy and mellow tone.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Wuque Studio WS Onion would be a great option. These exquisite switches offer a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. They provide a crisp, responsive feel and a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes and users.
Both switches offer a buttery typing experience, with the Blush being described as creamy, silky, and buttery, and the WS Onion being described as buttery and polished. So, regardless of whether you choose the Blush or the WS Onion, you can expect a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blush and the Wuque Studio WS Onion will depend on your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. Consider your desired typing experience and select the switch that aligns with your preferences. Regardless of your choice, both switches are excellent options that will enhance your typing experience.
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