Aflion Blush vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Blush and the SP-Star Yanyu. Both switches fall under the linear switch category, providing a smooth typing experience. The Blush switch stands out for its longer, two-stage spring, offering an impressively smooth and snappy feel, accompanied by a satisfyingly poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is perfect for those seeking a more delicate typing experience or those typing for extended periods. Its material blend provides a crisp sound profile. While these general characteristics give an overview of what each switch offers, let's delve deeper into their specific qualities to help you make an informed decision.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the SP-Star Yanyu differ in their housing materials, specifically in their top and bottom housings. The Blush features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This translucent material is especially useful for those who plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Yanyu utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, which offers a more pleasant sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side. While both switches have unique sound profiles, the Blush's polycarbonate top housing is likely to offer a clearer and more resonant sound compared to the Yanyu's blend.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Blush incorporates a nylon material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to its relatively softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Yanyu employs a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing, which provides a similarly unique sound profile. Although the specific qualities of this blend are not detailed, it can be inferred that it offers a pleasant sound that may not be as deep or full as that of the nylon bottom housing in the Blush.
It is important to note that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities attributed to each housing material are divided between the top and bottom portions of the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will primarily influence the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, depending on the specific combination of top and bottom housings, the overall sound profile and typing experience can vary between the Aflion Blush and the SP-Star Yanyu.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The actuation force for both switches is unavailable, meaning that we cannot compare them directly. However, the Aflion Blush has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which can be considered as medium in terms of resistance. In contrast, the SP-Star Yanyu has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for longer periods of typing or gaming, the Yanyu would be a suitable choice. However, for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Aflion Blush would be the better option due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, individuals should consider their preferences and requirements to determine which switch would be more suitable for their needs.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Yanyu has a longer travel distance compared to the Blush. In terms of traditional standards, the Yanyu falls closer to the 4.0mm mark, which is considered the most common travel distance. On the other hand, the Blush offers a shallower travel distance of 3.3mm. Shorter travel distances have become popular recently, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Blush would be a suitable choice with its shorter travel distance. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when typing, the Yanyu's longer travel distance may be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the 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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 tone with a more bass-heavy and mellow profile. This gives it a deep and poppy sound signature that adds a satisfying auditory experience to your typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch has a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate tone that is suitable for most purposes. Additionally, the Yanyu switch is described as thocky, producing a deep and rich sound similar to a "thud" or a soft "knock" when pressed and released. Both switches offer unique sound qualities, but the Blush has a lower-pitched and poppy sound while the Yanyu has a more neutral and thocky sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Blush linear switch is often described as creamy, silky, and buttery. It offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, thanks to its lubricated factory application or specific materials that enhance the overall smoothness. Typing on the Blush switch feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, as each keystroke melds into one another. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch provides a mild and feathery typing experience. It is exceptionally light to press, requiring little exertion from your fingers and reducing finger fatigue. The Yanyu switch also offers a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel while producing a gentle and non-resonant sound. Additionally, the Yanyu switch is described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish that ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blush linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blush switch has a low-pitched and poppy sound, along with a creamy and silky feel that glides effortlessly across the keys. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch has a neutral and thocky sound, combined with a mild and feathery feel that reduces finger fatigue. Both switches provide unique typing experiences, catering to different preferences and needs. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch are also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. If you are looking for a similar low-pitched and smooth typing experience, the Yanyu switch may provide comparable results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force and enjoy a smooth, snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature, the Aflion Blush linear switch is the best choice for you. This switch offers a creamy, silky, and buttery feel, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The Blush switch has a low-pitched sound profile, which adds a mellow and bass-heavy tone to your typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value a delicate typing experience for extended periods, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is the ideal option. These switches have a mild and feathery feel, reducing finger fatigue and allowing for comfortable typing sessions. The Yanyu switch also offers a subtle and polished sound profile, making it suitable for shared spaces.
Ultimately, your choice between the Aflion Blush and SP-Star Yanyu switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing needs. Whether you prioritize a medium or light bottom out force, and whether you prefer a creamy or feathery feel, both switches offer unique features that can enhance your typing experience. So, consider your preferences and select the switch that aligns best with your desired typing experience.
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