Gateron CM vs. Aflion Iceberg

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gateron CM and the Aflion Iceberg, both of which fall into the linear switch category. The Gateron CM stands out with its full nylon housing, departing from the conventional polycarbonate housings commonly seen. These switches provide a rich and deep sound signature, thanks to impeccable factory lubrication. Typing on the CM switches is an effortlessly smooth journey, giving the sensation of gracefully gliding with each keystroke. Additionally, their lengthened, dual-staged spring ensures a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg represents the exceptional quality of the switch manufacturer. Despite being relatively new, these switches offer a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel, courtesy of their two-stage spring design. While the Gateron CM is described as 'buttery', 'bassy', 'polished', 'thocky', 'low-pitched', 'creamy', and 'frictionless', the Iceberg is categorized as 'clacky', 'high-pitched', 'snappy', 'feathery', and 'subtle'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron CM Linear

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron CM and the Aflion Iceberg differ in terms of their housing materials. The CM features a nylon top housing, while the Iceberg utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. This distinction results in variations in the sound profiles produced by the switches. Typing on the CM's nylon housing will elicit a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Iceberg's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound due to its stiffer nature. Additionally, the CM's nylon bottom housing and the Iceberg's nylon bottom housing share the same material, resulting in a similar sound profile of deeper and fuller sounds for both switches.

The use of nylon in both the CM and Iceberg's bottom housings leads to similar acoustic qualities. Nylon, known as a classic switch housing material, is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches produce a duller and rounder sound when typing. This material choice emphasizes the deep and full sound profile desired by many users.

Although the top and bottom housings differ between the Gateron CM and Aflion Iceberg, their impact on the switch's sound profile remains distinct. When pressing down on either switch, the sound and feel will be influenced by the bottom housing. Thus, the bottom-out sound and feel are mainly determined by the qualities of the bottom housing material. However, upon releasing a key, the sound is predominantly influenced by the top housing material. Hence, the differences in top housing materials (nylon for the CM and polycarbonate for the Iceberg) will be more noticeable when letting go of a key, creating either a duller and rounder sound (CM) or a sharper and crisper sound (Iceberg).

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, there are notable differences between the two. The Gateron CM has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the Iceberg has a significantly lighter actuation force of 37 grams. Similarly, when it comes to bottom-out force, the CM requires 63.5 grams of force, indicating a more substantial typing experience, whereas the Iceberg only requires 45 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, particularly for extended periods of use such as work or gaming sessions, the Iceberg's lighter actuation and bottom out forces would be more suitable. It allows for a smoother and faster keystroke activation, reducing fatigue during long typing sessions.

On the other hand, users who prefer a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience would find the Gateron CM to be a better option. With its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a satisfying tactile feedback and a sense of solidity with every keystroke. This may be preferable for individuals who enjoy a more deliberate and pronounced typing style.

In conclusion, while the Gateron CM has a heavier actuation and bottom out force compared to the Aflion Iceberg, the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference. Those seeking a lighter typing experience may opt for the Iceberg, while individuals who prefer a more substantial and tactile feel would favor the Gateron CM.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, we can see that they are quite similar, with a slight difference. The Gateron CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Iceberg has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches provide a satisfying amount of depth when depressing the keys, giving a tactile feedback to the user. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Iceberg is more traditional, offering a slightly deeper feel compared to the 3.6mm travel distance of the CM. However, with the increasing popularity of shorter travel distances in gaming, the CM switch may be preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. It ultimately comes down to personal preference - if you prefer a more responsive and shallower feel, the Gateron CM would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial and deeper press, the Aflion Iceberg with its 4mm travel distance would be a better option.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron CM linear switches are best described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. They offer a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound can be characterized by a lower frequency range, providing a satisfying "thud" or "knock" when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg linear switches are described as clacky and high-pitched. They produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, resulting in a crisp, bright, and percussive sound. If you prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, the CM switches would be a better choice. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CM linear switches are often described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless. They offer a smooth and seamless typing experience, with reduced friction and effortless key travel. The factory lube job on these switches contributes to their polished feel. Typing on CM switches feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, providing a silky sensation. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switches are characterized as snappy, feathery, and subtle. They are super responsive, with a light actuation force that reduces the strain on your fingers. The feathery feel of these switches makes them comfortable for extended typing sessions. A subtle switch has a gentle resistance, providing a light typing feel suitable for shared spaces. If you prioritize a smoother and more polished typing experience, the Gateron CM switches would be preferable. However, if you prefer a snappy and light feel, the Aflion Iceberg switches are a great choice.

In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switches offer a bassy, thocky sound profile and provide a buttery, polished typing experience. With their full nylon housing and factory lube job, they deliver a deeper and richer sound signature with smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg linear switches produce a clacky, high-pitched sound and offer a snappy, feathery feel. They are representative of the quality switches that Aflion produces, providing a satisfying smoothness and light actuation force. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, either switch would be a great choice. The CM switches excel in providing a richer sound and smoother typing experience, while the Iceberg switches offer a snappy and light feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a richer and deeper sound signature, as well as a bouncy typing experience, the Gateron CM linear switch would be a great choice for you. Its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job ensure an effortlessly smooth typing journey, evoking a sensation of gliding gracefully with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a light switch with a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch would be the better option. Despite being a relatively new switch manufacturer, Aflion delivers on quality with these stellar Iceberg switches. The Iceberg switch provides a snappy and responsive typing experience, making it ideal for those who want a switch with a light actuation force and minimal finger fatigue. Additionally, its subtle typing feel and non-resonant sound signature make it suitable for shared spaces. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CM and Aflion Iceberg switch will depend on your preferences for typing force, sound profile, and typing feel.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CM Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more