Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade 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 Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Aflion Iceberg. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that offers a unique combination of a crunchy feel and a more subdued sound profile. With a slight bump and a quieter clicky sound, this switch is perfect for those who enjoy the tactile feedback of a click without the excessive noise. On the other hand, the Iceberg is a linear switch from the relatively new switch manufacturer Aflion. Despite being newcomers, Aflion showcases their quality with the Iceberg switches. These switches offer a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel, thanks to their two-stage spring. The Iceberg switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a snappy and feather-like experience. 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
75g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
82g
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
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Aflion Iceberg both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material creates a similar effect on the sound profile of the switches, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows for the light to shine through and enhance the overall aesthetics of the keyboard. Therefore, whether you choose the Box Mute Jade or the Iceberg, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound and visual appeal.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Box Mute Jade and the Iceberg feature nylon material. Nylon has been a popular choice for switch housing for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As such, regardless of whether you opt for the Box Mute Jade or the Iceberg, you can expect to experience a similar typing experience with a richer sound quality.
While both switches share the same top and bottom housing materials, it is important to note the impact of each material on the overall typing experience. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing will primarily affect the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, although the Box Mute Jade and the Iceberg may have identical housing materials, small variances in sound and sensation may still exist based on the individual design and construction of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, several differences become apparent. The Box Mute Jade switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 75 grams compared to the Iceberg's lighter actuation force of 37 grams. This means that it requires more force to trigger a keystroke on the Box Mute Jade switch. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Box Mute Jade is heavier at 82 grams, while the Iceberg has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Iceberg switch would be a suitable choice as it requires less force to initiate a keystroke and bottom out. This lighter actuation and bottom out force can be beneficial for individuals who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, users who prefer a more substantial typing feel and a stronger push might opt for the Box Mute Jade switch, as its heavier actuation and bottom out force provide a more pronounced tactile experience.
Overall, weight is an essential factor to consider when selecting a switch. While the Box Mute Jade switch is heavier in both actuation and bottom out force, the Iceberg switch provides a lighter typing experience. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences and typing needs.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Mute Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Iceberg has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Box Mute Jade falls into the shorter travel distance category, which is preferred by gamers for its faster response times. On the other hand, the Iceberg offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance. It really comes down to personal preference and whether you value a quicker response or a more pronounced key press. Both switches offer their own unique experience, so it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing between them.
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 Mute Jade comes in at $6.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch is best described as crunchy. It provides a satisfying clicky sound that is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. However, the sound profile of the Jade switch is more subdued compared to other clicky switches, making it a great option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. When pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. This switch is suitable for users who enjoy a more vibrant and vibrant sound profile. It is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so keep this in mind when making your decision.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch is described as accented, stiff, and polished. The accented feel refers to a medium level of tactility that provides a noticeable bump without being overwhelming or subtle. The stiffness of the switch requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, providing a more tactile typing experience. Additionally, the Box Mute Jade switch is polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and results in a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle. The snappy feel is due to longer or dual-staged springs, which make the typing experience feel more lively and responsive. The feathery feel indicates that the Iceberg switch is exceptionally light to press and requires minimal exertion, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The subtle switch has a gentle resistance and a light typing feel, making it comfortable and suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offer unique subjective qualities. The Box Mute Jade switch provides a crunchy and subdued clicky sound profile, making it a great choice for those who enjoy the tactile feedback of a clicky switch without the loudness. In terms of feel, the Box Mute Jade switch offers an accented tactile feel, coupled with stiffness and a polished finish for a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a vibrant and percussive typing experience. In terms of feel, it is snappy, feathery, and subtle, offering responsiveness, lightness, and a gentle resistance. Depending on your preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who enjoys the satisfying crunch of a clicky switch but prefers a quieter sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches provide a slight bump and a more subdued clicky sound profile. On the other hand, if you value a smooth typing experience and a fulfilling feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is a great option. These switches offer a satisfying smoothness and a uniquely two-stage spring design. In terms of sound, the Box Mute Jade produces a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves, while the Iceberg switch produces a sharp and snappy clacky sound. In terms of feel, the Box Mute Jade is characterized as accented, stiff, and polished, while the Iceberg switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
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