HMX Blue Topaz vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Aflion Iceberg both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing a breeze-like typing experience. With its distinctive glitter housing and clacky sound signature, it offers both visual and auditory delight to users. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg, despite being from a relatively new switch manufacturer, boasts a satisfying smoothness and a two-stage spring feature that enhances the typing feel. While the Blue Topaz is categorized as easy-to-press and clacky, the Iceberg switch is noted for being clacky, high-pitched, snappy, feathery, and subtle. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, but to determine the best switch for you, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
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-stage spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and Aflion Iceberg switches are quite similar in terms of their top housings, both being made of polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound profile from both switches when it comes to typing on keys with polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Blue Topaz and Iceberg switches sets them apart. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on keys with nylon bottom housings. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. Users can expect a difference in sound and feel when bottoming out keys on these switches due to the varying properties of the nylon bottom housings.
In terms of overall typing experience, the differences between the top and bottom housing materials of the Blue Topaz and Iceberg switches will lead to unique sound profiles and tactile feedback. The impact of the bottom housing will be more noticeable when bottoming out keys, while the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. This division of housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience that can cater to different preferences based on the desired sound and feel of the switches.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches on the market. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Iceberg has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In terms of weight, both switches fall in the lighter category, making them ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience. However, for those who prefer a more substantial push feel, they may find the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches to be too light. Overall, both switches offer a similar level of responsiveness and typing feel due to their light actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a relatively shorter travel distance compared to traditional switches, making them popular among gamers for quicker response times. The Blue Topaz's shorter travel distance may be preferred by those seeking a more responsive feel, while the Iceberg's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more substantial key press for users looking for a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
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, both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Aflion Iceberg linear switches are described as having a clacky sound profile. This means that they produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving users a crisp and percussive auditory experience. While the Blue Topaz is known for its distinctive glitter-infused housing that adds a visual delight to the typing experience, the Iceberg offers an additional high-pitched element to its sound, catering to users who prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile. Ultimately, both switches are ideal for those who enjoy a keyboard with a distinctive and satisfying sound signature.
In terms of feel, the HMX Blue Topaz switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering a smooth and lightweight feel that requires minimal force to activate. This results in a typing experience that is effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch is described as being snappy and feathery, with a two-stage spring mechanism that enhances responsiveness and liveliness in typing. The Iceberg switch also offers a subtle resistance that is gentle yet not too light, catering to users who prefer a more balanced typing feel. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience with their unique tactile qualities.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz and Aflion Iceberg linear switches each bring their own set of subjective qualities to the table. While the Blue Topaz is known for its smooth actuation and clacky sound signature, the Iceberg offers a satisfying feel with its snappy and feathery attributes. Whether you prefer a visually appealing switch with a lightweight feel or a switch with enhanced responsiveness and subtle resistance, both options are sure to provide a positive typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz and Aflion Iceberg switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch or the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, along with a glittery housing and clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a satisfying smoothness, a fulfilling feel due to a two-stage spring, and a combination of clacky, high-pitched, snappy, feathery, and subtle characteristics, then the Iceberg could be the ideal choice. Both switches offer a light bottom out force, making them great options for reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on what features and characteristics align best with your typing preferences and needs.
Mentioned in this article
