Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Aflion Iceberg mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, it is evident that they offer unique characteristics suitable for different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a budget-friendly option that delivers a satisfying combination of a poppy, clacky sound and smoothness, making it ideal for those who appreciate a vibrant auditory experience with a creamy tactile feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg, despite being from a new switch manufacturer, boasts a satisfying smoothness and unique two-stage spring design for a fulfilling feel. While the Akko V3 is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, the Aflion Iceberg is labeled as clacky, high-pitched, snappy, feathery, and subtle. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
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
20mm spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Aflion Iceberg feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing is especially beneficial for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for a visually appealing lighting effect. Additionally, the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic contributes to a more resonant and clear sound profile when typing.
On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Iceberg differ in their bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon plastic. In contrast, the Iceberg also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for similar reasons, absorbing more sound than harder plastics to produce a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Aflion Iceberg may differ in material, each housing material contributes distinct qualities to the overall sound profile of the switches. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt when pressing down on a key, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. In comparison, the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials used.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, one significant difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Iceberg offers a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro is heavier in terms of force required, while the Iceberg is lighter, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming experiences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is considered shorter than the Aflion Iceberg linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Gamers may prefer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for its quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more satisfying key press may opt for the Iceberg with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch offers a poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a vibrant auditory experience. In contrast, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound, delivering a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Both switches offer a satisfying auditory experience, with the Cream Yellow Pro having a more poppy feel while the Iceberg leans towards a sharper tone.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is characterized as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and polished, providing a smooth and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offers a snappy, feathery, and subtle typing feel, emphasizing light actuation force and gentle resistance. Both switches excel in offering a satisfying tactile feedback, with the Cream Yellow Pro leaning towards a bouncy and polished feel, while the Iceberg focuses on a more subtle typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Cream Yellow Pro provides a more vibrant and bouncy typing experience, while the Iceberg offers a sharper and subtler feel. Whether you prefer a poppy sound with easy-to-press switches or a crisp sound with light actuation force, both switches will deliver a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a poppy, clacky sound with a creamy tactile feel, then the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother, two-stage spring feel with a snappy sound, then the Aflion Iceberg switches would be more suitable for your preferences. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to your personal typing experience and what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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