Kailh Box Navy vs. Aflion Iceberg

Overview

If you are in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a heavy typing experience and a nostalgic sound signature reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards, the Kailh Box Navy switches are a perfect match. These switches are categorized as 'Sharp', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', 'Crunchy', and 'Stiff'. On the other hand, if you prefer a relatively new switch manufacturer that provides a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel, the Aflion Iceberg switches are worth considering. These switches are categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Navy Clicky

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$5.50 per 10

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Aflion Iceberg switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is a relatively stiffer plastic, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Box Navy and the Iceberg switches will provide similar sound profiles and aesthetic appeal due to their polycarbonate top housing.

However, when it comes to their bottom housing, the Box Navy utilizes nylon while the Iceberg also uses nylon. Though both switches have nylon bottom housing, they create different sound profiles. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. This characteristic gives the Box Navy a duller and rounder sound when compared to the Iceberg switch. So, while they share the same housing material, the bottom housing of the Box Navy contributes to its unique sound profile and feel when pressed.

Considering the impact on sound and feel, it is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom housings of both switches. Pressing down on the switch will reveal more of the bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the sound when releasing a key will be influenced more by the characteristics of the top housing. Therefore, users can expect a nuanced experience with each switch, with the Box Navy emphasizing characteristics imparted by its nylon bottom housing and the Iceberg showcasing the qualities of its polycarbonate top housing.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, there are notable differences between the two. The Box Navy switch has a relatively heavy actuation force of 60 grams, meaning more force is required to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Iceberg switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to activate.

In terms of bottom out force, the Box Navy switch again demonstrates its heavier nature with a force of 90 grams. This means that users will experience a more substantial typing experience as they press the keys all the way down. On the other hand, the Iceberg switch has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a softer and smoother typing experience when fully pressed.

Considering weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Iceberg switch, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces facilitate longer typing periods and reduce finger fatigue. This lightweight characteristic makes it suitable for extended use, whether it be in a work setting or during prolonged gaming sessions.

Contrastingly, individuals seeking a more robust and forceful typing experience may prefer the Box Navy switch. Its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a satisfying tactile feedback and a more pronounced feel with each keystroke. This can be beneficial for those desiring a greater sense of control or precision in their typing.

Overall, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offer contrasting experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. While the Box Navy switch leans towards the heavier side, providing a stronger and more substantial typing experience, the Iceberg switch offers a lighter touch, enabling longer typing periods and reducing finger fatigue. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and the desired typing feel for each user.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it is clear that the Iceberg has a slightly longer travel distance. The Box Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Iceberg has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the Iceberg falls within the average range, while the Box Navy is slightly shorter. If you are a gamer looking for a faster response time, the shorter travel distance of the Box Navy may be more appealing to you. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the longer travel distance of the Iceberg may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and desired responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy experience. With a higher-pitched sound profile, typing on these switches provides an immersive auditory experience that resembles the crisp and crunchy sound of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed. This results in a sharp and crisp sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile, opting for higher-pitched switches would be a suitable choice. However, it's essential to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch offers a sharp, invigorating, and stiff experience. The switches provide a high feedback intensity with a prominent and distinct tactile bump, creating a snappy and reactive feel with each keypress. The actuation force required to press these switches is higher, leading to a more robust typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offers a snappy, feathery, and subtle feel. These switches are super responsive, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs, enhancing the typing experience and making it feel more alive. The light actuation force required reduces finger fatigue and strain, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The typing feel is gentle and not as feather-light as feathery switches, but it still maintains a light touch. The sound signature of Aflion Iceberg switches is also not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces.

Considering the available information, both the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offer unique subjective qualities. The Box Navy switches are known for their heavy and vintage feel, providing a satisfyingly tactile and resonant sound experience. On the other hand, the Iceberg switches showcase Aflion's commitment to quality with their smoothness, two-stage spring, and fulfilling clacky and high-pitched sound. While the Box Navy focuses on a heavy typing experience, the Iceberg offers a snappy and feathery feel that reduces finger fatigue. Depending on your preference for sound, feel, and typing style, you can choose either switch to achieve similar results. Remember to consider other factors such as your choice of keyboard board and keycaps that can influence the overall sound and feel of your typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience and love the sound signature and tactility of a clicky switch, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are a perfect fit for you. Their heftiness and sound signature hark back to the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s. The Box Navy is described as resonant and crunchy, offering a clean, sharp, and immersive auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Box Navy switches are known for their sharp and invigorating tactile feedback. They require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, providing a snappy and reactive typing sensation.

On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience and want a switch that offers a smooth and fulfilling feel, then the Aflion Iceberg linear switches are the way to go. Aflion, even as a relatively new switch manufacturer, provides exceptional quality, as seen in the Iceberg switches. The Iceberg is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp, crisp, and bright sound when pressed. In terms of feel, the Iceberg switches are snappy and feathery, offering super responsiveness and a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue.

Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy the heavy, tactile clicky switches and a vintage sound experience, the Box Navy is the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a smoother and lighter typing experience with snappy feedback, the Iceberg linear switches are the perfect option. Consider your typing preferences and requirements, and select the switch that aligns best with your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Navy Clicky

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more