Aflion Blush vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the SP-Star Duck 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 SP-Star Duck. The Aflion Blush is a linear switch and is best known for its impressively smooth and snappy typing experience. Its longer, two-stage spring provides a full and satisfying feel, while its long pole gives it a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck is a tactile switch and offers a more subtle typing experience. With a gentle tactility and a clean and crispy sound profile, these switches are perfect for those who prefer a gentle bump while typing. Both switches have their own unique qualities that make them a great choice for different preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Duck have similar housing materials in their top housings, both utilizing polycarbonate. This material choice enhances the sound profile of the switches, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding aesthetic appeal. However, while the Blush's top housing focuses on the sound profile, the Duck's top housing emphasizes its visual impact. Overall, the polycarbonate top housing in both switches provides a similar experience in terms of sound and lighting capabilities.
In contrast, the Blush and the Duck differ in their choice of materials for the bottom housing. The Blush features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Duck opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with its top housing material. This choice maintains the sharper and crisper sound profile associated with polycarbonate, providing a more consistent and resonant typing experience. While the impact of the bottom housing is felt during bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing's influence is more prominent when releasing a key.
When considering the overall qualities brought by the housing materials, the Blush and the Duck offer slightly different experiences. The Blush with its polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharp and clear sound profile, complemented by the deeper and fuller sound of its nylon bottom housing. This combination creates a dynamic and well-rounded typing experience. In contrast, the Duck's polycarbonate top and bottom housings result in a consistently sharp and resonant sound profile throughout the keystroke. Both switches prioritize sound quality, but the Blush places more emphasis on a balanced sound, while the Duck prioritizes a consistently crisp sound. Overall, both switches provide unique experiences, highlighting the importance of housing materials in dictating sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is important to note that both switches have an actuation force that is unspecified. However, they both have a bottom out force of 58 grams, which can be considered medium in terms of force required for typing.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as it can significantly affect the typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Aflion Blush may be the better option. A lighter switch allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue, making it suitable for use in professional environments or during extended gaming sessions.
On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more robust and substantial typing experience may lean towards the SP-Star Duck. With a heavier force required to bottom out, these switches provide a stronger push feel, which can be satisfying for users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback while typing.
In summary, while both the Aflion Blush and SP-Star Duck have an unfixed actuation force, they share the same bottom out force of 58 grams, which is considered medium. For those seeking a lighter typing experience, the Aflion Blush may be the ideal choice, whereas those who prefer a heavier and more substantial feel may find the SP-Star Duck more to their liking.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Duck has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Blush. Generally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered to be the most traditional, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have become prevalent, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. For those seeking a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Blush would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals find short travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer switches with more depth. In this case, the Duck's longer travel distance may be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preferences 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 Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck 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
The Aflion Blush linear switch is best known for its impressive smoothness and full type feel. It features a longer, two-stage spring that contributes to its snappy typing experience. Additionally, the Blush switch produces a poppy sound signature due to its long pole. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience. It provides a gentle tactility when typing and has a clean and crispy sound profile.
In terms of sound, the Blush switch is described as low-pitched, which means it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Duck switch is described as neutral, meaning it has a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using it at home or work.
When it comes to feel, the Blush switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery. This means it offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, comparable to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The Duck switch, on the other hand, is described as mild, buttery, and polished. A mild switch provides a gentle typing experience, while a buttery and polished switch indicates a smooth and fluid keystroke with reduced friction.
Overall, the Aflion Blush linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blush switch provides a snappy type feel and a poppy sound signature, while the Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. Both switches have their unique characteristics, and the choice between them would depend on personal preferences. However, if you are looking for a smooth and fluid typing experience, both switches claim to offer a buttery sensation.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, the Aflion Blush would be an excellent choice. This switch is best known for its impressively smooth and snappy typing feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. Additionally, the Blush offers a poppy sound signature, which adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing experience. In terms of sound, the Blush produces a low-pitched tone that is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. As for the feel, the Blush is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that feels like effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck would be a perfect fit. With a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, this switch offers a gentle tactility that enhances your typing feedback without being overly pronounced. The sound profile of the Duck is described as neutral, making it suitable for various situations, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you're using the switch at home or work. As for the feel, the Duck is mild, buttery, and polished. It provides a more gentle typing experience and a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek and polished typing experience. These switches offer reduced friction and smooth key travel, making each keystroke feel precise and effortless.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Blush and SP-Star Duck switches depends on your preferences for linear or tactile typing experiences, as well as your desired sound and feel. Consider whether you prioritize smoothness, snappiness, and a poppy sound signature (Blush) or gentle tactility, neutral sound, and a polished feel (Duck). Both switches offer excellent options for mechanical keyboards and will enhance your typing experience.
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