Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Aflion Iceberg offers distinct advantages catering to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 28g, with its notably light actuation force of 28g, stands out with a bright sound profile that delivers a crisp, high-pitched sound on every keystroke. It's designed for those who crave responsiveness and a dynamic auditory feedback when typing, making it a favorite for fast typists and gamers seeking precision. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg, emerging from a newer manufacturer, impresses with its smooth action and a unique two-stage spring that adds a fulfilling feel to each keystroke. Its subtle yet satisfying sound profile appeals to users who appreciate a balance of auditory feedback and tactile sensation, perfect for a more measured typing experience. Both switches have their own merits—while the Chiikawa excels in speed and responsiveness, the Iceberg offers a smoother actuation for a more refined typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
28g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
34g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Y3X
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Aflion Iceberg exhibit notable similarities, particularly in their choice of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches leverage the inherent qualities of polycarbonate, which is renowned for its stiffness and translucency. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that enhances the auditory experience during use. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate provides an aesthetic advantage, making it a popular choice for those who intend to utilize RGB lighting. Users of both switches can therefore expect a visually appealing lighting experience along with a more defined sound quality.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both the Chiikawa - 28g and Iceberg uses nylon, a material known for its distinct acoustic properties. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than harder alternatives. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, giving the switches a rounder and more muted bottom-out sound. While both switches share these benefits, the differences in texture and feel during key presses may still be subject to the unique design of each switch, potentially leading to slightly varied user experiences despite the identical material properties.
The combination of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing means that users will enjoy a balanced auditory experience across both switches. The polycarbonate's ability to produce a clear and resonant sound will shine during the release of the key, while the nylon will contribute to the fuller, deeper sound during bottoming out. Thus, while there are definite parallels in the materials used for both the Chiikawa - 28g and Iceberg, the synergy between the two types of housing will ensure a cohesive sound profile, allowing users to achieve similar results regardless of the switch selected.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch present a clear contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences among users. The Chiikawa features a lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it ideal for those looking for a comfortable and less strenuous typing experience, which is particularly beneficial during long periods of use. In contrast, the Iceberg has a heavier actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel with each keystroke. The Chiikawa, being lighter overall, may be preferable for work or extended gaming sessions where fatigue can set in, while the Iceberg may satisfy those who appreciate a firmer push. Ultimately, users looking for a tactile and engaging typing experience with more resistance should gravitate towards the Aflion Iceberg, whereas those favoring ease and comfort should opt for the Bsun Chiikawa.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, we find that the Chiikawa features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Iceberg has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Chiikawa the shorter option, providing quicker actuation that may appeal to gamers seeking rapid response times. On the other hand, the Iceberg’s longer travel distance of 4 mm caters to those who prefer a more substantial keypress, potentially offering a more satisfying tactile experience. Thus, if you're inclined towards responsiveness, the Chiikawa may be the better choice, while the Iceberg will likely be more suitable for users who appreciate deeper travel distances. Overall, the differences in travel distances reflect varying user preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Chiikawa - 28g 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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switch is known for its bright sound profile, characterized by a crisp and high-pitched tone when typing. This makes it notably responsive, producing a sharp auditory feedback that many find satisfying. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch features a sound profile that can be described as clacky and high-pitched, generating a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. While both switches may share a common trait of producing a bright auditory experience, the Chiikawa focuses on clarity and lightness, while the Iceberg combines that clarity with a sharper, more snappy quality. However, factors like the keyboard build and keycap material will greatly influence the overall sound of both switches.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Chiikawa - 28g boasts a very light actuation force, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a low-effort typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Iceberg is described as snappy and feathery, providing a highly responsive typing sensation thanks to its two-stage spring design. The light actuation also means reduced finger fatigue, facilitating extended typing sessions comfortably. Furthermore, elements of subtle resistance in the Iceberg adds a nuanced tactile experience, which makes it suitable for varied usage scenarios. While both switches promote comfort and responsiveness, the Iceberg's dual-stage spring mechanism arguably enhances the overall feel, delivering a more engaging typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Aflion Iceberg linear switches offer engaging auditory and tactile experiences, making them excellent options for users seeking responsive and light switches. Their sound qualities feature bright and sharp profiles, while the feel of each promotes comfort during long typing sessions, albeit the Iceberg may offer a more nuanced and fulfilling tactile response due to its construction. Ultimately, your choice may come down to personal preference, but either switch will likely provide a satisfying performance, thanks to their shared focus on light actuation and bright sound.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Aflion Iceberg linear switches hinges on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you favor a very light actuation force and a bright, high-pitched sound profile, the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent option. Its 34-gram bottom out force and responsive, feathery feel make it perfect for fast typists or gamers who prioritize quick keystrokes with minimal finger fatigue, especially during long sessions. However, if you’re looking for a more substantial typing experience with a satisfying, snappy response, the Iceberg's 45-gram bottom out force may be more appealing. Its two-stage spring mechanism offers a smooth feel that many users find fulfilling for general typing, while its clacky, crisp sound can enhance your experience, making it a great choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback. Ultimately, consider factors like your typing style, sound preference, and the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard to make the best choice between these two distinct linear switches.
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