Everglide Bamboo Green vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Everglide Bamboo Green and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Everglide Bamboo Green and the Aflion Iceberg. The Bamboo Green switch stands out for its clacky sound signature and crisp tactility. It is known for being stepped, high-pitched, accented, sharp, resonant, and polished. On the other hand, the Iceberg switch from Aflion, although a relatively new player in the market, showcases the quality that the brand is capable of producing. With its satisfying smoothness and two-stage spring, it offers a fulfilling feel. Categorized as clacky, high-pitched, snappy, feathery, and subtle, the Iceberg switch aims to provide a unique typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PBT
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
PBT
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Bamboo Green and Aflion Iceberg switches have significant differences in their housing materials. The Bamboo Green features a PBT top housing, which offers a neutral sound profile. It is neither very crisp nor dull. On the other hand, the Iceberg utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Bamboo Green and Iceberg switches feature different materials. The Bamboo Green utilizes a PBT bottom housing, which mirrors the qualities of its top housing. It offers a neutral sound profile without being too sharp or dull. On the other hand, the Iceberg incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics.
When comparing the impact of the different housing materials, it is important to note that the bottom housing predominantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down the switch. The qualities of the bottom housing will be more noticeable in this aspect. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Everglide Bamboo Green and Aflion Iceberg switches differ in their housing materials, their respective characteristics will result in distinct experiences for both pressing down and releasing the keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it becomes evident that there are notable differences between the two. In terms of weight, the Bamboo Green falls on the lighter side with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. On the other hand, the Iceberg switch is even lighter with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, both the Bamboo Green and Iceberg switches would be suitable options. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces allow users to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. This makes them ideal choices for individuals who use their keyboards extensively for work or engaging in marathon gaming sessions.
However, for those seeking a more substantial and responsive feel while typing, the Iceberg switch might provide a more satisfying experience. With a slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Bamboo Green, it offers a stronger push that can enhance the typist's sense of engagement.
In summary, while the Everglide Bamboo Green and Aflion Iceberg switches differ in their actuation and bottom out forces, both options cater to specific preferences. The Bamboo Green is lighter, making it suitable for prolonged use, while the Iceberg offers a slightly heavier feel for users who desire a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard, as it directly affects the tactile feedback and typing experience. In the case of the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users can expect a consistent and similar feel in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Whether it's the Bamboo Green or the Iceberg, both switches will provide a satisfying keystroke with their equal travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Bamboo Green has an MSRP of $9.67 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bamboo Green for $7.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch is best described as high-pitched and resonant. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, creating an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Both switches have a similar high-pitched sound profile, but the Bamboo Green may have a slightly more resonant sound due to its specific construction. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also vary depending on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch is described as stepped, accented, sharp, and polished. These switches have a two-stage tactility, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, giving a more mild tactile experience. The tactility is prominent but not overwhelming, providing a satisfying feedback intensity. Additionally, the switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle. They are super responsive and have a light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The subtle resistance and light typing feel make them comfortable for various uses. While the Bamboo Green offers a more accentuated and crisp tactile experience, the Iceberg provides a lighter and smoother typing feel.
Considering all the available information, the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offer different qualities in terms of both sound and feel. The Bamboo Green has a clacky sound signature with a crisp and sparkling tactility. Meanwhile, the Iceberg provides a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel. Both switches have a high-pitched sound profile, with the Bamboo Green potentially being slightly more resonant. Additionally, the Bamboo Green has a stepped, accented, sharp, and polished feel, while the Iceberg is snappy, feathery, and subtle. Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a clacky sound and accentuated tactility, the Bamboo Green would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth sound profile and a lighter typing feel, the Iceberg would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a clacky sound signature along with a crisp and sparkling tactility, the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switches would be a great choice for you. These switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their stepped and accented feel, offering a prominent yet refined tactility. Additionally, if you appreciate a high-pitched sound profile, the Bamboo Green switches deliver a clean and sharp auditory experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and desire a fulfilling feel with smoothness, the Aflion Iceberg linear switches would be a suitable option. These switches, despite being from a relatively new switch manufacturer, exhibit the quality and attention to detail that Aflion is known for. With their two-stage spring design, the Iceberg switches offer a smooth and snappy typing experience. Furthermore, if you prefer a clacky sound profile and a lighter typing feel that reduces finger fatigue, the Iceberg switches deliver on both fronts.
Ultimately, the choice between Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switches and Aflion Iceberg linear switches depends on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound signature, and typing feel. Consider your preferences for medium or light bottom out force, clacky or high-pitched sound profiles, and stepped or snappy feel to make an informed decision. Both switches offer their own unique features and qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
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