Huano Acacia vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Huano Acacia and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, both Huano Acacia and Aflion Iceberg offer compelling options for enthusiasts who appreciate a linear feel. The Huano Acacia switches are celebrated for their medium-light weight, generous factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble, which deliver an exceptional typing experience right from the start. These traits make them ideal for users who seek a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, perfect for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switches, although from a newer manufacturer, have quickly gained recognition for their satisfying smoothness and fulfilling feel, thanks in part to their two-stage spring design. These switches not only offer a refined typing experience but also come with additional characteristics described as clacky and snappy, appealing to users who enjoy audible feedback during their typing sessions. While both switches excel in the linear category, the differences in their tactile responses and overall experience may sway one's preference. 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
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The Acacia and Aflion Iceberg share similarities in their housing materials, utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. Both switches benefit from the properties of polycarbonate, which lends a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material's translucency is particularly advantageous for users who desire RGB lighting in their setups, as the clear nature of polycarbonate allows for vibrant light diffusion. Consequently, both the Acacia and Iceberg exhibit similar acoustic characteristics when it comes to the top housing, resulting in a clear and resonant sound whether you are typing or gaming.
On the flip side, the bottom housing of both switches features nylon, a material renowned for its capacity to absorb sound and provide a deeper, fuller sound profile. As a softer plastic, nylon tends to create a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics like polycarbonate. This characteristic is crucial in determining the overall feel of each key when pressed down, as the bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. While the top housing contributes to the sound produced when the key is released, it is the nylon bottom housing that enhances the tactile and acoustic experience during a keypress, contributing to a well-rounded and satisfying typing experience.
In summary, while the Huano Acacia and Aflion Iceberg utilize different materials for their respective top and bottom housings, the synergy between polycarbonate and nylon results in a harmonious balance of sound profiles. Both switches can accommodate RGB lighting due to their polycarbonate tops, providing visually appealing setups, while the nylon bottoms ensure a rich auditory experience when typing. Despite their identical choices in materials, each switch may still offer a unique feel based on design nuances, but the fundamental acoustic traits shared between them make for a comparably enjoyable experience.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Acacia has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Iceberg has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it distinctly light. This difference in weight can significantly affect typing experiences; the Acacia’s heavier resistance may appeal to users seeking a more substantial feel during use, while the Iceberg’s lighter actuation makes it suitable for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. In summary, the Acacia switch is the heavier of the two, while the Iceberg is lighter, leading to varied user preferences based on personal comfort and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it's clear that they differ significantly. The Huano Acacia has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Aflion Iceberg's 4 mm. This difference suggests that the Acacia may provide a more responsive experience, favored by gamers who appreciate quicker key presses for faster response times. Conversely, the Iceberg's longer travel distance of 4 mm may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, providing a deeper tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference: if you prioritize swift responsiveness, the Acacia is the better option, while those looking for more depth may gravitate towards the Iceberg.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Iceberg has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iceberg for $3.07.
The Huano Acacia comes in at $3.39 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the Huano Acacia switch's specific auditory profile is not detailed, making it difficult to assess its tonal characteristics directly. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch is notably characterized by its clacky and high-pitched sound. Clacky switches like the Iceberg produce a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive, making it an engaging choice for users who enjoy an audible response when typing. The high-pitched nature of the sound may appeal to those who prefer a more vibrant and less bass-heavy auditory experience, although it is essential to remember that the overall sound will also be influenced by the keyboard's construction, including the choice of materials and keycaps.
When examining the feel of these switches, the Huano Acacia switch is noted for its medium-light weight, generous factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble, contributing to an excellent typing experience right out of the box. This creates a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. Meanwhile, the Aflion Iceberg is recognized for its snappy response, a feathery touch, and subtle resistance. The two-stage spring design enhances the feedback and responsiveness, making typing feel alive and engaging while also reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use. The combination of the Iceberg's attributes results in a highly satisfying tactile experience which, while different from the more forgiving feel of the Acacia, still leads to an enjoyable typing environment.
In conclusion, while the specific sound profile of the Huano Acacia remains unspecified, the Aflion Iceberg is distinguished by its clacky, high-pitched characteristics that contribute to an interactive auditory experience. Regarding tactile feedback, the Acacia offers a smooth and stable action, while the Iceberg features a snappier and lighter feel due to its two-stage spring design. Both switches can provide satisfying results, albeit in different ways, making them appealing to distinct preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, the choice between the two will hinge on whether one prioritizes sound or the nuances of feel during typing sessions.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you appreciate a slightly more substantial typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, the Acacia is an excellent option. Its generous factory lubrication and low stem wobble ensure a smooth, satisfying feel right out of the box, making it suitable for those who spend long hours typing or gaming. Furthermore, if you're in an office or shared environment and prefer a quieter switch option, the Acacia could be the more fitting choice. On the other hand, if you're looking for something lighter and prefer a more snappy response, the Aflion Iceberg switch is highly recommended. With its 45-gram actuation force and two-stage spring mechanism, it provides an exceptionally smooth and enjoyable typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming or extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Iceberg’s clackiness and high-pitched sound can add a playful element to your typing, which might appeal to those who enjoy auditory feedback. In summary, your decision should reflect your typing style, the environment you'll be in, and whether you prioritize a heavier or lighter feel in your mechanical switches.
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