Gateron Box CJ vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and Aflion Iceberg mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note that both are linear switches, offering a smooth keystroke experience. The Gateron Box CJ is renowned for its swift characteristics, providing typists with rapid response and higher-pitched clacks. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg stands out for its satisfying smoothness and two-stage spring design, offering a fulfilling feel to users. While the Box CJ allows for customization of lubrication to meet individual preferences, the Iceberg provides a unique combination of attributes such as high-pitched clacks and a subtle feathery touch. 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
57g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Iceberg switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting. However, while they share the same top housing material, the Box CJ utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Iceberg also incorporates a nylon bottom housing to create a rounder and duller sound.
In terms of the top housing material, both the Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Iceberg switches utilize polycarbonate to achieve a similar sound profile. This clearer and more resonant sound is further enhanced by the stiff nature of polycarbonate, making it a popular choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Box CJ uses a nylon bottom housing to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Iceberg also utilizes nylon but focuses on absorbing more sound to create a rounder and duller sound.
Overall, while both the Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Iceberg switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile, they differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Box CJ's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Iceberg's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound for a rounder and duller sound. This distinction in bottom housing material impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a role in the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch both offer a smooth typing experience, but there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron Box CJ has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, providing a medium-light feel. In contrast, the Aflion Iceberg has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option overall. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Iceberg, while users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Gateron Box CJ. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on desired actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance indicates that users can expect similar typing experiences when using either switch. Overall, both switches offer consistent and predictable key presses with a travel distance that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Box CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box CJ for $5.35.
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 Gateron Box CJ and Aflion Iceberg switches are described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The Box CJ is additionally noted for its higher-pitched clacks, while the Iceberg is characterized by a high-pitched sound profile. This means that users can expect a crisp and bright sound from both switches, with a unique acoustic signature that sets them apart. The sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used, so individual preferences may vary.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch provides a smooth push feel that is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch is noted for its fulfilling feel, thanks to its two-stage spring mechanism that makes typing feel more alive and responsive. Additionally, the Iceberg switch is described as feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Box CJ and Aflion Iceberg switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Box CJ excels in providing a high-pitched and clacky sound with a smooth push feel, the Iceberg stands out for its fulfilling and feathery typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience. If a user enjoys a clacky sound profile, both switches will provide similar results, with slight variations in pitch and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Box CJ linear switch or the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value rapid response and a higher-pitched clack sound, along with the option to customize lubrication to your liking, the Box CJ may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a satisfying smoothness, and a two-stage spring for a fulfilling feel, then the Iceberg switch could be the ideal fit. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and preferences for an optimal typing experience.
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