Bsun Akashi vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Akashi and the Aflion Iceberg both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Akashi is known for its redefined tactile feedback, featuring a UPE stem for smoothness and a distinctive housing combo of POM top and nylon bottom, creating a bright, crisp bottom-out sound with deep acoustic richness. On the other hand, the Iceberg switches from Aflion provide a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel with its two-stage spring design. While the Akashi is described as 'polished' and 'creamy', the Iceberg is labeled as 'high-pitched' and 'feathery'. Both switches offer a range of qualities such as 'snappy' and 'clacky', appealing to different typing 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
37g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
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-stage extended spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Aflion Iceberg, we can see that they both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Akashi features a POM top housing, known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Iceberg utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, producing a sharper and higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, both switches have nylon bottom housings, which result in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. Despite their differences in top housing material, the switches will likely have similar typing experiences with the shared nylon bottom housing contributing to the overall sound profile.
One significant contrast between the two switches lies in their top housing materials. The POM top housing of the Akashi creates a more subdued sound profile, ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Iceberg produces a sharper and crisper sound, perfect for those who prefer a more tactile and defined typing feedback. This difference in sound profiles is directly influenced by the stiffness of the plastics used in each switch's top housing, with POM being softer than polycarbonate.
Additionally, the choice of housing materials in both switches impacts not only the sound profile but also the aesthetics of the switch. The Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing, being clear and translucent, is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects, adding a visually striking element to the switch. On the other hand, the Akashi's POM top housing may not offer the same level of visual appeal but compensates with a more subtle and pleasing sound profile. However, despite these aesthetic differences, both switches provide a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, both have a similar actuation force of 37 grams, making them equally light in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Akashi has a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Iceberg has a bottom out force of 45 grams, making the Iceberg slightly heavier in terms of fully pressing down the key. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Akashi may be more suitable. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier touch might lean towards the Iceberg. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference between the two is minimal, with the Iceberg having a slightly longer travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. Choosing between the two will depend on personal preference - the Akashi may provide a slightly quicker response, while the Iceberg offers a slightly more substantial key press. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to more traditional options.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
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.
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, both the Bsun Akashi and Aflion Iceberg linear switches are described as "clacky", producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This results in a crisp and bright sound profile that can be percussive in nature. However, the Iceberg switch also adds a "high-pitched" descriptor, which indicates a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Akashi. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akashi linear switch is known for providing a "creamy", "frictionless", "polished", "silky", "snappy", and "easy-to-press" typing experience. These descriptors highlight the smooth and effortless typing sensation, as well as the responsiveness and comfort these switches offer during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch is characterized by a "snappy", "feathery", and "subtle" typing feel. This suggests that the Iceberg switch offers a light and responsive typing experience with gentle resistance, making it suitable for various typing environments.
Overall, while both the Bsun Akashi and Aflion Iceberg linear switches share some similarities in terms of their "clacky" sound profile, the Akashi switch leans towards a more refined and diverse typing feel with characteristics like "creamy" and "easy-to-press", whereas the Iceberg switch emphasizes a lighter and more responsive typing experience with descriptors like "feathery" and "subtle". Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, newcomers to mechanical keyboard switches can expect unique and satisfying typing experiences from both the Akashi and Iceberg linear switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Akashi linear switch or the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, you should take into account a few key factors. If you prefer a unique tactile feedback with a resonant and bright bottom-out sound, the Akashi may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you value a smooth and fulfilling typing experience with a two-stage spring and a high-pitched sound profile, the Iceberg could be the switch for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a creamy, frictionless, or polished feel while typing, the Akashi offers these qualities. Conversely, if you prefer a snappy and feathery typing experience with a subtle sound profile, the Iceberg may be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice between the Akashi and Iceberg switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
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