TTC Bluish White vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Bluish White and the Aflion Iceberg are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique qualities for different typing preferences. The Bluish White, a tactile switch, is perfect for those looking for a satisfyingly poppy typing experience. With its buttery and mild tactile feedback, this switch provides a subtle and polished typing feel, accompanied by a low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg, a linear switch, represents the quality switches produced by Aflion, a relatively new switch manufacturer. Known for its smoothness and two-stage spring design, the Iceberg offers a fulfilling and snappy typing experience. It has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a feathery and subtle feel while typing. 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
42g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the Aflion Iceberg switches share many similarities. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency. Additionally, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer properties absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound.
However, despite these similarities, there are also some differences between the two switches. While the descriptions for both switches' housing materials highlight the same qualities of polycarbonate and nylon, the specific characteristics and resulting sound profiles may vary slightly. The exact formulation of these materials might differ between manufacturers, leading to subtle variations in sound and feel. Additionally, the quality of the manufacturing process and the design of the switch itself can also influence the overall performance and sound produced.
When comparing the two switches, it is important to note that the top and bottom housing materials play different roles in the overall typing experience. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is fully pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing the key. Therefore, even if both switches have similar housing materials, the distribution of these materials between the top and bottom housings could result in slight differences in the overall sound, feel, and performance.
Overall, the TTC Bluish White and Aflion Iceberg switches share common features in their housing materials, with both utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. These materials contribute to similar qualities in the sound profiles of the switches. However, variations in manufacturing processes, design, and the distribution of housing materials between the top and bottom can lead to subtle differences in the typing experience. It is important to consider these factors when choosing between the two switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, we can see some notable differences. The Bluish White has a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Iceberg's 37 grams. However, both switches can be categorized as having a light actuation force. When it comes to bottom out force, the Bluish White requires 50 grams of force, while the Iceberg requires 45 grams. Again, both switches fall under the light category for bottom out force.
Considering weight is important for various reasons. Some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows for extended periods of typing, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy a stronger push feel. For this group, switches with heavier forces would be more suitable.
Overall, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, both being on the lighter side. Each switch provides a different tactile experience - the Bluish White being tactile and the Iceberg being linear. Therefore, the choice between the two ultimately depends on the individual's preference for either a slightly higher actuation force or a slightly lower bottom out force, but both switches will deliver a relatively light typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, we can see that the Bluish White has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Iceberg has a travel distance of 4 mm. Based on these numbers, it is evident that the Iceberg has a slightly longer travel distance than the Bluish White. The difference may seem minor, but it can have implications on the overall typing experience.
In general, a travel distance of 4 mm is considered more traditional, while 3 mm is shallower. However, with the rise in popularity of shorter travel distances for increased responsiveness, the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Bluish White may be preferred by gamers and those seeking faster response times. On the other hand, some individuals may find that the longer travel distance of 4 mm, offered by the Iceberg, provides a more substantial and satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preference. If you prioritize a shorter travel distance for improved responsiveness, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a deeper key press and a sense of solidity, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch with its longer travel distance may be more suitable for your needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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 TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a low-pitched tone. This means that it has a more bass-heavy and mellow sound profile compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. This means that it produces a sharp, crisp, and percussive sound when pressed. If you prefer a richer and bassier sound, the Bluish White switch would be a better choice. However, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Iceberg switch is the way to go. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a variety of descriptors. It is described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished. A buttery switch implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The mild characteristic means that it offers a gentle typing experience without any pronounced features, making it approachable to most users. The stepped attribute indicates that it has a two-stage feeling with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The subtle characteristic suggests a gentle resistance with a light typing feel, suitable for shared spaces. Lastly, the polished attribute means that it has a smooth and refined 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. The snappy feature means that it is super responsive, making the typing experience feel more alive. The feathery characteristic indicates that it is exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The subtle attribute, similar to the Bluish White switch, suggests a gentle resistance and light typing feel, suitable for shared spaces.
Overall, the TTC Bluish White switch and the Aflion Iceberg switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bluish White switch provides a low-pitched sound profile and a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished feel. On the other hand, the Iceberg switch offers a clacky, high-pitched sound and a snappy, feathery, and subtle feel. If you prefer a bass-heavy and mellow sound with a smooth and fluid typing experience, the Bluish White switch would be a great choice. If you prefer a sharp and crisp sound with a super responsive and light typing experience, the Iceberg switch would be more suitable. It is important to consider personal preferences and factors such as the keyboard board and keycap combination when choosing between these switches. However, based on the available information, both switches offer satisfying qualities, providing users with a pleasant typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you desire a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a light bottom out force, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is a great choice. These switches provide a snappy sound profile with a low-pitched tone, offering a smooth and uniform typing sensation. With descriptors like "buttery," "mild," "stepped," and "polished," these switches offer a gentle and approachable typing experience suitable for shared spaces.
On the other hand, if you prefer a fulfilling and smooth typing feel with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is the way to go. These switches are representative of the high quality Aflion produces, offering a satisfying smoothness and a two-stage spring for added satisfaction. The Iceberg switches produce a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience. Descriptors like "snappy," "feathery," and "subtle" further highlight the responsive and light feel of these switches, making them comfortable for extended typing sessions.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch depends on personal preferences. If you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a slightly higher bottom out force and a low-pitched sound profile, the Bluish Whites are a great fit. However, if you prefer a linear typing experience with a slightly lower bottom out force and a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, the Icebergs are the way to go. Overall, both switches offer unique characteristics and satisfying typing experiences.
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