Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Aflion Iceberg both offer unique features worth considering. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg, despite being from a newer switch manufacturer, offers a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel thanks to its two-stage spring design. While the V3 Crystal Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Iceberg is described as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle'. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference and typing style; 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
48g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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 housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Aflion Iceberg both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches with RGB lighting as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal. However, the Aflion Iceberg stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller yet rounder sound, providing a different typing experience.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a similar sharp sound profile, the difference lies in their bottom housing materials. The V3 Crystal Pro maintains its polycarbonate bottom housing, emphasizing clarity and resonance in the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg's nylon bottom housing offers a different typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials showcases how different plastics can impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Aflion Iceberg demonstrate how different plastic compositions can influence the sound profile and typing experience of mechanical keyboard switches. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the Aflion Iceberg's nylon bottom housing adds a unique depth and fullness to the typing experience. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound and feel can help enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting switches for their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Crystal Pro has a medium actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Iceberg offers a lighter typing feel with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In terms of weight, the Iceberg is lighter overall compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. This difference in force can impact the typing experience significantly. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Iceberg, which allows for extended typing sessions without fatigue. However, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the V3 Crystal Pro for a firmer keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, slightly shorter than the Aflion Iceberg linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Iceberg being on the longer side and the V3 Crystal Pro slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the V3 Crystal Pro for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Iceberg switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 Crystal Pro linear switch provides a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound that is sharp and snappy. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, with a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Aflion Iceberg switch boasts a snappy, feathery, and subtle feel, providing responsiveness and lightness without sacrificing typing comfort. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback that caters to different typing styles and preferences.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Aflion Iceberg linear switches each bring their own set of subjective qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal Pro switch offers a chirpy sound and bouncy feel, the Iceberg switch provides a clacky sound and snappy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference when it comes to the sound and feel that best enhances the typing experience for the individual user. However, if one is looking for similar results in terms of sound and feel, either of these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience based on the user's specific preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing feel, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a smooth profile, fulfilling feel, and a lighter actuation force, the Aflion Iceberg switch would be a good fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound and feel you prefer when typing, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
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