Kailh Box White V2 vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing experience. The Kailh Box White V2 stands out as a clicky switch, delivering sharp tactile feedback and an unmistakable audible click, making it an attractive option for those who enjoy the traditional sound and feel of classic typewriters. This switch is ideal for typists and gamers alike, who appreciate the confirmation that comes with each keystroke. In contrast, the Aflion Iceberg offers a smoother experience as a linear switch, emphasizing a seamless downward motion and an overall elevated tactile satisfaction thanks to its two-stage spring mechanism. This makes it an excellent choice for users looking for a quieter operation while still enjoying satisfying responsiveness during long typing sessions or intense gaming marathons. Both switches cater to distinct preferences, appealing to those who prioritize sound and feedback versus those who prefer a smooth and subtle 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
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and the Aflion Iceberg switches share a commonality in their choice of top housing material: both utilize polycarbonate, which significantly influences their acoustic properties. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness and translucency, enabling a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic allows both switches to resonate clearly under actuation, providing a more pronounced auditory feedback that typists often appreciate. Moreover, the use of polycarbonate supports RGB lighting aesthetics, as the clear nature of the material allows light to pass through beautifully, accentuating the overall visual appeal of mechanical keyboards equipped with these switches.
However, the comparison of the bottom housings reveals a similar alignment in material choice as well, with both switches sporting nylon as their respective bottom housing. Nylon is traditionally recognized for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, contributing to a more subdued actuation experience. The softer nature of nylon effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a rounder and less piercing auditory feedback compared to harder plastics. This complementary nature of the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing types ensures that both the Kailh Box White V2 and Aflion Iceberg switches provide a harmonious blend of sonic qualities, balancing the sharper sound produced by the top housing with the deeper resonance from the nylon bottom.
Ultimately, despite the specifics of each switch model, the similarity in housing materials allows for comparable performance characteristics. Both switches leverage the advantages of polycarbonate and nylon, with the former enhancing clarity and brightness while the latter enriches warmth and depth. Users can therefore anticipate a well-rounded typing experience regardless of their switch choice, characterized by pronounced auditory feedback when pressing keys and a satisfying sound when releasing them. This thoughtful design synergy promises satisfying tactile and auditory responses for keyboard enthusiasts, making either option a worthy consideration.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, a notable distinction emerges in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Kailh Box White V2 requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Aflion Iceberg features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Iceberg switch is the lighter option, making it more suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, especially during long work or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Box White V2, being heavier in both dimensions, provides a more substantial typing feel, which may appeal to those who appreciate a firmer push while typing. Ultimately, while both switches are categorized as light, the Iceberg's lighter actuation force offers a distinct advantage for those seeking ease and comfort during extended use.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference highlights a key distinction between the two switches; the Box White V2 allows for a more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, which could be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker response times. In contrast, the Iceberg's 4 mm travel distance may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced key press, providing a deeper and more satisfying tactile experience. Therefore, if you're looking for a more responsive switch, the Box White V2 is the better choice, while those favoring depth and a more traditional feel might prefer the Iceberg. Both switches cater to different preferences based on their travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh Box White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
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
The sound profile of the Kailh Box White V2 switch is characterized by a crisp tactile feedback that produces a pronounced and satisfying click sound upon actuation, making it ideal for typists who enjoy auditory cues with each keystroke. In contrast, the Aflion Iceberg switch is noted for its clacky and high-pitched sound, generating a sharp, snappy noise that is bright and percussive. This means that while both switches provide unique auditory experiences, the Box White V2 offers a clearer tactile click, whereas the Iceberg delivers a more lively, higher-frequency sound that might appeal to those preferring a distinct sharpness rather than a more pronounced click.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White V2 provides a robust tactile feedback that is not only clicky but designed for a responsive typing experience. The Aflion Iceberg switch offers a snappy feel, attributed to its two-stage spring, allowing for a dynamic and engaging typing experience. Additionally, the Iceberg is described as feathery, requiring minimal force to activate, which can contribute to reduced finger fatigue during long typing sessions. This lighter actuation compared to the Box White V2 might be more comfortable for users who type for extended periods, suggesting that while the Box White V2 emphasizes its clicky response, the Iceberg balances between engagement and ease of use.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Box White V2 and Aflion Iceberg switches provide distinct yet enjoyable experiences. While the Box White V2 offers a defined click sound and tactile feedback, the Iceberg stands out with its sharp clacky noise and lighter, feathery feel. Ultimately, your individual preferences for sound and tactile sensation will determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and needs. Whether you’re inclined towards the pronounced click of the Box White V2 or the snappy responsiveness of the Iceberg, both switches promise satisfying results, albeit through different activating experiences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you crave an audibly satisfying and tactile typing experience, the Box White V2 is an excellent choice. Its crisp click sound and tactile feedback make it ideal for typists who enjoy a pronounced response with every keystroke. This switch's bottom-out force of 50 grams, while light, provides enough resistance to prevent accidental presses, making it suitable for accuracy-centric tasks like coding or writing. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter experience, the Aflion Iceberg will likely suit you better. With a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams, the Iceberg delivers a snappy, feathery feel that minimizes finger fatigue, perfect for extended writing, gaming sessions, or general use in shared environments where noise may be a concern. In short, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound or smoothness and subtlety in your typing experience.
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