Keygeek Briny vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Briny and Aflion Iceberg offer intriguing options for enthusiasts who favor linear switches. The Briny is celebrated for its balanced sound profile, crafted from a UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, which makes it an excellent choice for users seeking a quiet yet responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg, from a relatively new manufacturer, sets itself apart with its commendable smoothness and the distinctive feel provided by its two-stage spring, appealing to those who desire a more dynamic keystroke. While both switches promise a satisfying typing experience, the Briny leans towards a more muted sound, while the Iceberg introduces a clackier and snappier character. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Keygeek Briny and the Aflion Iceberg, the primary distinction lies in their top housing materials. The Briny utilizes nylon for its top housing, a material known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, allowing it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. This results in a sound that is duller and rounder, which might appeal to users who prefer a more muted typing experience. In contrast, the Iceberg features polycarbonate for its top housing, known for its rigidity, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic makes the Iceberg particularly suitable for users who favor a more dynamic and bright auditory feedback when typing. Essentially, users will find that the different materials create distinctly different auditory experiences during use.
However, both the Briny and Iceberg share a notable similarity in their bottom housing, as both utilize nylon. This choice of material ensures that both keyboards produce a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing, regardless of the contrasting materials in their top housings. The nylon bottom housing absorbs sound and contributes significantly to the overall typing feel. Therefore, while the Briny's top and bottom housings work in unison to create a consistent sound profile, the Iceberg combines its vibrant top housing sound with the warm, resonant qualities of its nylon bottom housing. This blend ensures that both keyboards can deliver a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different nuances depending on the housing configurations.
Ultimately, the interaction between the different housing materials in each switch plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. For the Briny, the softness of the nylon in both top and bottom combines to create a cohesive sound that is rounded and harmonious. On the other hand, the Iceberg’s combination of a crisp polycarbonate top with a soft nylon bottom results in a multifaceted sound profile that merges clarity with a comfortable, soft feel upon bottoming out. For users seeking personalized experiences in typing sound and feel, understanding these housing characteristics can help guide their choice, allowing them to select a keyboard that best fits their preferences for auditory feedback and overall tactile satisfaction.
Weight
The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch present distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch that provides a more substantial typing experience with a noticeable resistance. In contrast, the Iceberg features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it easier to press down and ideal for longer typing sessions. Consequently, for users seeking a lighter feel, the Iceberg would be the preferable option, while those who enjoy a bit more push should consider the Briny for its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, the comparison highlights that the Briny is the heavier switch, while the Iceberg offers a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, there is a noticeable difference between the two. The Briny features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Iceberg has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Briny offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which can cater to users who prefer quicker response times, particularly beneficial for gamers. On the other hand, the Iceberg, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, may appeal to those who appreciate a more profound keystroke that provides a fuller and more substantial feel when typing. Therefore, if you prefer a more responsive experience, the Briny would be the better choice, whereas the Iceberg would suit those who favor a more substantial, deeper feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Briny has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Briny for $3.29.
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 Keygeek Briny linear switch is balanced, providing a harmonious auditory experience that likely sits comfortably in the middle of the spectrum. In contrast, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound, producing a sharp, bright, and percussive noise when pressed. This difference in sound will influence a typist's experience significantly; while the Briny offers a more subdued yet pleasing sound, the Iceberg's sharper acoustics may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing.
When it comes to feel, the Briny's tactile qualities are not specified, leaving its nuanced characteristics a mystery for now. However, the Iceberg switch distinguishes itself with a variety of traits, including a snappy responsiveness, a feathery lightness, and a subtle resistance. This combination makes the Iceberg exceptionally comfortable for prolonged use, as it minimizes fatigue while providing an engaging typing experience. The dual-stage spring in the Iceberg contributes to its fulfilling feel, enhancing the overall typing performance.
In conclusion, while the Keygeek Briny switch offers a smoother, more balanced sound, the Aflion Iceberg switch stands out for its sharp auditory feedback and superior tactile response. Those who prioritize a more subdued typing sound may gravitate towards the Briny, while those who seek a lively and dynamic keyboard experience may prefer the Iceberg. Choosing between these two will ultimately depend on individual preferences regarding sound clarity and typing feel, leading to a satisfying experience with either option.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, consider your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics. If you prefer a medium actuation force that provides a balanced typing experience, the Briny may be the better option for you, especially if you're looking for a switch that offers a more subdued sound profile, which makes it suitable for shared environments. However, if you favor a lighter feel that enhances speed and responsiveness—ideal for gaming or high-paced typing tasks—then the Iceberg is a great choice. Its satisfying smoothness and light bottom-out force are perfect for those extended sessions, making it less tiresome on your fingers due to its feathery touch. Additionally, if you enjoy a clackier and crisper sound while typing, the Iceberg's high-pitched acoustic profile may resonate more with you. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your specific usage scenarios—be it gaming, typing, or working—while integrating the sound and feel that best enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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