HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Aflion Iceberg both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cloud - 63.5g is a linear switch best known for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force of 63.5g, providing enthusiasts with a bright typing experience and a silky smooth feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg, also a linear switch, stands out for its satisfying smoothness and two-stage spring mechanism that delivers a fulfilling feel. While the Cloud - 63.5g is characterized by its bounciness and creamy texture, the Iceberg is known for being snappy and feathery with a subtle touch. Both switches have their own advantages depending on personal preferences; 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
56g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Aflion Iceberg switches feature nylon bottom housings, which provide a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. However, the top housings of these switches differ, with the Cloud - 63.5g utilizing nylon for a similar effect, while the Iceberg uses polycarbonate to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Iceberg switch's top housing allows for more clarity and resonance in sound, especially beneficial for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
While both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Iceberg switches share nylon bottom housings for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the difference lies in their top housing material. The Cloud - 63.5g's nylon top housing provides a muffled and soft sound experience, contrasting with the Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing, which offers a more crisp and sharp sound quality. These distinct material choices impact the overall sound profile of the switches, with the Iceberg likely producing a more defined and resonant sound due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the clear nature of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, providing a more visually appealing experience.
In essence, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Aflion Iceberg plays a significant role in the sound profile and aesthetic appeal of the switches. While both switches share nylon bottom housings for a deeper and fuller sound experience, the different top housing materials - nylon for the Cloud - 63.5g and polycarbonate for the Iceberg - create distinct sound profiles. The softer nylon of the Cloud - 63.5g offers a rounder and muffled sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate of the Iceberg produces a clearer and sharper sound. Ultimately, the material composition of the top and bottom housings determines the overall typing experience and sound profile of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it is evident that the Iceberg switch is lighter in both aspects. The Cloud - 63.5g has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Iceberg has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is considered light. This means that the Iceberg switch will require less force to register a keypress and to bottom out compared to the Cloud - 63.5g switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the Iceberg, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Cloud - 63.5g. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly shorter than the Aflion Iceberg linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Cloud - 63.5g being slightly shorter than average. Gamers may prefer the Cloud - 63.5g for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Iceberg with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired feel while typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloud - 63.5g for $2.99.
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, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch are described as clacky and high-pitched, producing sharp and crisp sounds when pressed. This means that users can expect similar sound profiles from both switches, giving a bright and percussive typing experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g is noted for its bouncy and creamy sensation, providing a lively and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle, offering a responsive and light typing feel that reduces finger fatigue. While the two switches may offer slightly different feel profiles, users can still expect a satisfying typing experience from both switches.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the HMX Cloud switch caters to enthusiasts who enjoy a bright typing experience with its clacky sound profile and silky smooth feel, the Aflion Iceberg switch represents the quality of switches produced by Aflion, providing a satisfyingly smooth and fulfilling feel. Ultimately, users can choose between these switches based on their preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, consider the key factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Opt for the Cloud - 63.5g if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a clacky sound profile with a bright typing experience. On the other hand, choose the Iceberg if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth typing feel with a satisfying two-stage spring mechanism. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure an enjoyable keyboarding experience.
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