Aflion Blush vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blush and the Cherry Nixie mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note that both are linear switches but offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Blush switch by Aflion is celebrated for its impressively smooth and full feel, thanks to its longer two-stage spring and long pole that provides a distinct poppy sound signature. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', and 'Buttery', the Blush switch is ideal for those who value a tactile and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switch is renowned for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, incorporating updated materials and springs from Cherry's recent MX2A update. With a categorization of 'Textured', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched', the Nixie switch offers a classic yet modern feel that appeals to users looking for a more traditional mechanical switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Nylon
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and Cherry Nixie both offer unique characteristics in their housing materials. The Blush features a polycarbonate top housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Nixie's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the Blush's top housing is ideal for RGB lighting with its translucency, the Nixie's nylon top housing provides a classic feel with a rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Blush and Nixie feature nylon material, providing a deep and full sound profile. The nylon material absorbs sound effectively, creating a duller and rounder sound profile compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures a consistent typing experience between the two switches, with both offering a classic feel and sound that typists appreciate. The difference in top housing materials may impact the initial sound and feel of pressing down on the switches.
Overall, the choice between the Aflion Blush and Cherry Nixie will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel. The Blush's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharp and clear sound profile, ideal for those looking for a crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the Nixie's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to typists who prefer a softer sound profile. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality. Ultimately, whether you prioritize a sharper sound with the Blush or a fuller sound with the Nixie will dictate your preference between the two switches.
Weight
The Aflion Blush linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch both offer unique experiences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. While the Blush has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the Nixie's 63.5 grams, the Blush requires a slightly higher bottom out force of 58 grams compared to the Nixie's 80 grams. This means that the Blush provides a smoother and lighter typing experience, perfect for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Nixie offers a more substantial and heavier feel, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out force between the two switches cater to different preferences, with the Blush being lighter and the Nixie being heavier, providing users with options based on their individual typing needs.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Cherry Nixie linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Nixie has a longer travel distance compared to the Blush. The Nixie's 4 mm travel distance is closer to the traditional 4.0 mm, while the Blush's 3.3 mm is on the shorter end. Gamers may prefer the Blush for its shorter travel distance, providing faster response times, while others may find the Nixie more appealing for its greater depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and 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 Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.15.
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 Blush linear switch offers a low-pitched tone with a poppy sound signature, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Nixie linear switch is described as thocky and low-pitched, delivering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on individual preferences and the keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Blush linear switch is characterized as creamy, silky, and buttery, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This smooth sensation can make typing effortless and comfortable for extended periods. In contrast, the Nixie linear switch is described as textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed. This texture can appeal to users who prefer a slight tactile feedback while typing.
Overall, the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blush switch excels in providing a smooth, full, and snappy typing experience with a low-pitched poppy sound, while the Nixie switch is known for its substantial heft and textured typing feel with a thocky, low-pitched sound. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style. However, both switches offer quality construction and performance that can enhance the overall keyboarding experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth, snappy typing experience with a poppy sound, the Blush may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a textured typing experience with a deep, satisfying "thocky" sound, the Nixie might be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific characteristics that align with your personal preferences in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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