Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Aflion Iceberg mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics for a tailored typing experience. The CAP Anniversary is praised for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design, resulting in reduced resistance and minimal wobble. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg, despite being from a newer switch manufacturer, showcases a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel with its two-stage spring. The Iceberg switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, while the CAP Anniversary is described as snappy, creamy, and polished. 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
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
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
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Aflion Iceberg feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housing contributes to a more resonant sound due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Similarly, nylon is used for the bottom housing of both switches, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound experience when typing on these switches.
The differences between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Aflion Iceberg lie in how the top and bottom housings impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. The qualities of the top and bottom housing materials are split between the two, with the bottom housing having a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience thanks to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings, each contributing to the overall sound profile in distinct ways.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Aflion Iceberg offer similar benefits in terms of sound quality and typing experience due to their shared use of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials. The sharp, higher-pitched sound profile created by the polycarbonate top housing is complemented by the deeper and fuller sound produced by the nylon bottom housing. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile or a rounder one, both switches cater to different sound preferences while maintaining a high level of quality in terms of construction and design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it is clear that the Iceberg switch is lighter in both aspects. The Iceberg has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option overall. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is heavier compared to the Iceberg. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Iceberg make it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch and want to type for extended periods comfortably. In contrast, the heavier forces of the CAP Anniversary provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel before the switch actuates. With both switches offering a travel distance of 4 mm, users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and actuation. The similarity in travel distance indicates that both switches provide consistent tactile feedback and performance, making them suitable options for users who prefer a specific amount of key travel. Whether using the CAP Anniversary or the Iceberg switch, the travel distance offered by both is equal, ensuring a comparable typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is known for its quiet and smooth typing experience, with a lack of a distinct click or clack. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, offering a more crisp and bright auditory feedback. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the CAP Anniversary being more subdued and the Iceberg being more pronounced.
When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is praised for its snappy and creamy typing experience, providing a smooth and responsive feel. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch contributes to reduced friction and enhanced key travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch offers a snappy and feathery feel, with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The subtle resistance of the Iceberg switch provides a comfortable typing experience suitable for shared spaces.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Aflion Iceberg switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the CAP Anniversary switch prioritizes stability and minimal wobble to enhance smoothness, the Iceberg switch focuses on delivering a satisfying and fulfilling typing experience with its two-stage spring design. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the CAP Anniversary offering a quieter and smoother feel, while the Iceberg provides a more pronounced sound and light actuation force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth keystroke experience with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a fulfilling feel with a two-stage spring, the Iceberg may be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a snappy and creamy typing experience, the CAP Anniversary offers that, while the Iceberg provides a mix of snappy, feathery, and subtle typing feels. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preferences in terms of bottom out force, keystroke smoothness, and typing feel. Happy typing!
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