HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Aflion Iceberg both present appealing options for linear switch enthusiasts, yet they deliver distinctly different experiences. The HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its light actuation and clacky sound profile, making it a favorite for typists who crave a bright auditory feedback while enjoying a silky smooth keystroke feel. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a lively typing experience without the heavier resistance typical of many mechanical switches. In contrast, the Aflion Iceberg, though from a newer manufacturer, shines with its exceptional smoothness and fulfilling tactile feedback thanks to its innovative two-stage spring design. It embodies a more subtle typing experience, perfect for users who prefer a snappy feel with a range of sound profiles from high-pitched to feathery. Each switch appeals to different preferences—whether you lean towards the vibrant acoustics of the Cloud - 50g or the refined smoothness of the Iceberg. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that’s right for you.
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
3.90 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
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Aflion Iceberg, we notice distinct differences in the top housing that significantly affect the overall acoustic experience of each switch. The Cloud - 50g features a nylon top housing, which is recognized for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Nylon, as a classic switch housing material, absorbs more sound than its harder counterparts, resulting in a more muted acoustics that can create a warm and rounded typing experience. In contrast, the Iceberg employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and clarity, producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. This difference highlights a fundamental distinction in the tonal quality each switch offers, making it clear that users seeking a softer typing experience would gravitate towards the Cloud - 50g, while those preferring a more pronounced and articulated sound might favor the Iceberg.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of both switches utilizes nylon, which means that when it comes to the fundamental feel and sound profile on the bottom-out action, they share similar acoustic characteristics. The nylon material in both the Cloud - 50g and the Iceberg ensures that users will experience a deeper and fuller sound when the switch is fully pressed down. The impact of this shared bottom housing is especially important as it influences the tactile feedback and weightiness during typing. Thus, regardless of the differences found in the top housings, the incorporation of nylon in the bottoms of both switches creates a consistency in the sensation of bottoming out that users can appreciate, especially among those who enjoy a softer tactile experience.
Ultimately, the contrasting materials used in the top housings and the commonality in the bottom housings result in nuanced auditory experiences between the two switches while maintaining certain foundational similarities. Users who prioritize RGB lighting may find the Iceberg’s polycarbonate top housing more visually appealing and suitable due to its translucency, while those who seek a richer, more muted sound might steer towards the Cloud - 50g. However, since both switches share nylon in their bottom housings, they provide an engaging typing experience with a tactile sound quality that is pleasantly consistent despite their other differences. Thus, depending on user preferences for sound and aesthetics, achieving a satisfying typing experience can be accomplished with either switch while embracing different auditory profiles.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch both exhibit relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users seeking comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. The Cloud - 50g has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Iceberg features a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Iceberg is the lighter option overall, requiring less force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Cloud. However, both switches provide a gentle touch, making them ideal for users preferring a softer typing experience. If someone were to use either switch, they could expect a similar level of responsiveness and comfort due to the overall light force requirements. For those who appreciate a stronger tactile feedback, neither switch might meet their preferences, as both are designed for a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, we find that the Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Iceberg has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that the Iceberg switch provides a more pronounced keypress experience, appealing to those who prefer a more deliberate and deeper feel when typing. Conversely, the Cloud - 50g, with its shorter travel distance, might offer a quicker response, catering to gamers and users who favor faster actuation times. Overall, the difference in travel distance may influence personal preferences regarding depth and responsiveness; choose the Cloud - 50g for a swifter experience, or the Iceberg for a more substantial and traditional touch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cloud - 50g 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 - 50g 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, the Cloud - 50g is characterized by its clacky profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a vibrant auditory feedback while typing. This switch delivers a bright, engaging sound that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg also presents a clacky sound profile, with additional descriptors indicating that it produces a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound. This alignment in sound qualities suggests that users of either switch can expect a similarly lively auditory performance, perfect for creating a dynamic typing atmosphere.
When it comes to feel, the Cloud - 50g provides a silky smooth typing experience, which appeals to users who prioritize a seamless keypress. In contrast, the Iceberg excels with a multifaceted feel characterized as snappy—providing a responsive and engaging typing interaction. It also boasts a feathery lightness that minimizes finger fatigue, making it comfortable for prolonged use, and a subtle resistance that ensures a light typing feel without overwhelming tactile feedback. While the Cloud - 50g offers a focus on smoothness, the Iceberg’s two-stage spring structure adds complexity and satisfaction, ensuring that both switches cater to distinct user preferences.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 50g and Aflion Iceberg switches share some commonalities, particularly in their sound profiles, providing a lively typing experience that is both engaging and bright. However, they diverge in their tactile sensations, with the Cloud emphasizing smoothness, and the Iceberg delivering a versatile feel that combines snappy responsiveness with lightness. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will hinge on your personal preferences for feel, though both will likely create a rewarding typing experience overall.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Aflion Iceberg linear switches ultimately depends on your preferences in sound, feel, and intended usage. If you enjoy a light and clacky typing experience with a bright acoustic profile, the Cloud - 50g is an excellent choice. Its 50-gram bottom-out force gives it a silky smooth feel that many enthusiasts appreciate, making it particularly suitable for typing or gaming sessions where auditory feedback enhances your experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that is not only light but also snappy and feathery, the Aflion Iceberg may be the better option. With a marginally lower bottom-out force of 45 grams, its dual-stage spring design offers excellent responsiveness and comfort, allowing for extended typing or gaming without feeling fatigued. This switch is ideal if you need a subtle sound profile that remains pleasant in shared environments, as it combines a satisfying smoothness with a nuanced acoustic signature. In essence, your choice should reflect your priorities—whether it’s an engaging sound experience with the Cloud - 50g or the smooth, responsive feel of the Iceberg, both switches offer unique advantages depending on how you like to type or game.
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