KTT Cream Yellow vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are various factors to consider. Two popular options to explore are the KTT Cream Yellow and the Aflion Iceberg. The Cream Yellow is well-known for its distinctive clacky sound, which is achieved through its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. Additionally, its lengthened spring contributes to a bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Iceberg switches manufactured by Aflion showcase the quality the brand has to offer. Known for their satisfying smoothness, these switches provide a fulfilling feel, thanks to their two-stage spring. While both switches offer unique features and advantages, it is important to delve deeper into their characteristics to determine which one best suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cream Yellow and the Aflion Iceberg both use polycarbonate as their top housing material. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in switches. Its relatively stiffer nature contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful if you plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting effects to shine through. Therefore, both the Cream Yellow and the Iceberg will offer similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing.
However, when it comes to their bottom housing material, the Cream Yellow and the Iceberg differ. The Cream Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Iceberg also uses nylon for its bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the sound produced is duller and rounder. Therefore, both the Cream Yellow and the Iceberg will offer similar characteristics in terms of the sound produced by their nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the top and bottom housing materials are split between the Cream Yellow and the Iceberg. When you press down on the switch, you will mainly feel the impact and experience the bottom-out sound and feel, which is influenced by the bottom housing. On the other hand, the sound produced when you let go of a key is predominantly influenced by the top housing. So, although the top and bottom housings may differ between the Cream Yellow and the Iceberg, the overall typing experience and sound profile will still be fairly similar.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Cream Yellow has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Iceberg's lighter force of 37 grams. This means that the Cream Yellow requires more pressure to trigger a keystroke, providing a stronger push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow also has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 58 grams compared to the Iceberg's 45 grams. This indicates that the Cream Yellow requires more force to fully press down the key, potentially leading to a more satisfying typing experience. However, both switches fall within the medium or light range of actuation and bottom out forces, so users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness and performance. Ultimately, the weight of the switches should be considered based on personal preferences and requirements, with lighter options like the Iceberg being suitable for longer typing sessions and the Cream Yellow offering a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Cream Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Iceberg has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with the Cream Yellow switch, you will feel a slightly shorter distance compared to the Iceberg switch.
Traditionally, a 4.0 mm travel distance is considered the standard, while a 3.0 mm travel distance is considered to be more shallow. However, with the increasing prevalence of shorter travel distances in recent times, shorter options have become popular particularly among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness in your typing or gaming experience, the Cream Yellow switch with its shorter travel distance might be the more suitable choice for you.
On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt or lacking in depth. If you prefer a more substantial and satisfying key press, the Iceberg switch with its longer travel distance could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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, both the KTT Cream Yellow and the Aflion Iceberg switches are described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The Cream Yellow is designed to deliver a distinctively clacky sound with its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, providing resonant audio feedback. On the other hand, the Iceberg switches not only have a clacky sound but also a high-pitched tone, which adds a crisp and bright element to the overall sound profile. 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. Therefore, while both switches offer a clacky sound, the Iceberg may have a slightly higher-pitched sound compared to the Cream Yellow.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This switch has a lively feel that offers rebound when pressed, thanks to its lengthened spring. On the other hand, the Iceberg switch offers a snappy feel, which is attributed to longer or dual-staged springs. This snappiness enhances the responsiveness of the switch, making the typing experience more alive. Additionally, the Iceberg switch is also described as feathery, meaning it requires little exertion from your fingers and reduces finger fatigue. It is exceptionally light to press, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Cream Yellow switch, on the other hand, does not have a specific descriptor related to its actuation force or feel. However, it can be assumed that it provides a satisfying feedback without being as light as the feathery Iceberg switch.
In conclusion, both the Cream Yellow and Iceberg switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both deliver a clacky sound, although the Iceberg has the additional characteristic of a high-pitched tone. In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow offers a bouncy sensation while the Iceberg provides a snappy and feathery feel. Both switches have their own strengths and it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing between them. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a high-pitched sound, the Iceberg would be a suitable choice. If you value a bouncier feel and a distinct clacky sound, the Cream Yellow would be a good option. Nonetheless, it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps to achieve the desired sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force and enjoy a unique clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch would be a great choice for you. It delivers a distinctively clacky sound with its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, providing resonant audio feedback. The lengthened spring also contributes to a uniquely bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and appreciate a smooth and fulfilling typing experience, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is the way to go. Aflion is known for producing quality switches, and the Iceberg switch exemplifies this with its satisfying smoothness and two-stage spring. This switch offers a snappy and feathery feel, reducing finger fatigue and providing a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, if you are someone who prefers a higher-pitched sound, the Iceberg switch delivers a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Ultimately, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. Consider your desired bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel when making your decision between these two switches.
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