Kailh Box Jade vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Kailh Box Jade and Aflion Iceberg are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Box Jade is perfect for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and noticeable tactility. Its crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps add an invigorating feel to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Iceberg, manufactured by relatively new switch manufacturer Aflion, showcases the quality of switches they produce. The Iceberg offers a smooth typing experience with its two-stage spring, providing a fulfilling feel. While both switches have their own unique characteristics, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make the best decision for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Aflion Iceberg switches have several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting in their keyboards. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic when comparing the top housing of both switches.
However, the differences arise when examining the bottom housing materials. The Box Jade incorporates a nylon bottom housing, while the Iceberg utilizes the same material. This choice affects the typing experience, as nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the Box Jade provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic bottom housing. On the other hand, the Iceberg can be expected to have a similar effect on sound, offering a duller and rounder sound profile due to its nylon bottom housing.
It is worth noting that the split between the top and bottom housing materials affects the overall performance of the switches. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when the key is released. Consequently, users can expect variations in sound and tactile feedback depending on which housing material is used for each component of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it is evident that the Box Jade requires a slightly heavier force for both actuation and bottom out. The Box Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Iceberg has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that typing on the Box Jade will provide a more substantial and tactile experience, as it requires a greater push to register a keystroke and fully press down. On the other hand, the Iceberg offers a lighter touch, which is advantageous for those who prefer a lighter switch for longer periods of typing or gaming. Both switches provide distinct tactile feedback, but the Box Jade is heavier in comparison to the Iceberg.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Box Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Iceberg has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Iceberg offers a more traditional and deeper travel distance compared to the Box Jade. However, it is important to note that both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular nowadays. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Box Jade with its shorter travel distance would be the better option. On the other hand, if you value a deeper keystroke and a more substantial feel, the Iceberg with its longer travel distance might be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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, the Kailh Box Jade switch produces a high-pitched and crunchy sound when pressed. The sharp and crisp clicks of the Box Jades are perfect for those who prefer a more distinct and satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. This means that it also offers a sharp and snappy sound, similar to the Box Jades. Both switches provide a crisp and percussive sound profile, which is ideal for users who enjoy a more pronounced and satisfying audio experience while typing. However, 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.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch is characterized as having an accented and invigorating feel. The accented tactile feedback on the Box Jades provides a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. Combined with a moderate to firm actuation force, the Box Jades offer a snappy and reactive feel that immerses users in the typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch is described as snappy, which indicates a high level of responsiveness. The Iceberg switch's two-stage spring contributes to its fulfilling feel, providing a satisfying typing sensation. Additionally, the Iceberg switch also offers a feathery option, which has an exceptionally light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The subtle option of the Iceberg switch provides a gentle resistance and a light typing feel, making it suitable for shared spaces. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the Box Jade being more accented and invigorating, while the Iceberg provides options for a feathery or subtle feel.
Considering the available information, the Kailh Box Jade and the Aflion Iceberg switches have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Jade provides a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and an accented, invigorating feel. On the other hand, the Iceberg switches showcase Aflion's quality with a satisfying smoothness, options for feathery or subtle feel, and a snappy typing experience. Both switches are known for their sharp and crisp sound, making them suitable for users who prefer a more distinct auditory feedback. Additionally, the Box Jade's crunchy tactile bumps and the Iceberg's two-stage spring contribute to a fulfilling feel while typing. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the medium-heavy typing experience of the Box Jade or explore the various options provided by the Iceberg switches for a lighter or more subtle feel. In either case, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with satisfying sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switches are perfect for you. They offer a satisfyingly crisp click and crunchy tactile bumps when typing. Additionally, they have a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a smooth and fulfilling feel, the Aflion Iceberg switches are an excellent choice. These switches have a bottom out force of 45 grams, making them light and easy to press. They also feature a two-stage spring that adds to the overall feel of the switch. In terms of sound, both switches produce sharp and crisp sounds when pressed, with the Box Jade being more high-pitched and crunchy, while the Iceberg has a clacky and high-pitched sound. When it comes to feel, the Box Jade offers an accented and invigorating experience, with prominent tactility and a reactive feel. The Iceberg, on the other hand, provides a snappy feel with its responsive nature, and it also has options for a feathery or subtle typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preference for typing experience, sound profile, and feel.
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