TTC Flaming Pink vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When searching for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between various options, two of which stand out in the linear category: the TTC Flaming Pink and the Aflion Iceberg. The Flaming Pink switches from TTC are celebrated for their smooth and responsive feel, coupled with a satisfying bottom-out sound that strikes a balance between being bright and not overly loud. This makes them an excellent choice for both gaming and everyday typing, providing a premium experience that many users appreciate. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switches, emerging from a relatively new manufacturer, showcase the brand's commitment to quality with their own smooth feel and a two-stage spring mechanism that delivers a fulfilling tactile response. Recognized for their high-pitched yet subtle sound profile, the Iceberg switches cater to those who favor a snappier and feathery typing experience, adding another layer of enjoyment. Ultimately, both switches have their unique strengths that cater to different user preferences. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Flaming Pink and the Aflion Iceberg switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which contributes to their sound profiles in a remarkably similar fashion. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, enhancing the overall clarity and resonance when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate plays a crucial role for users who enjoy RGB lighting, making both switches visually appealing when illuminated. Consequently, users can anticipate a comparable auditory experience in the top-end of each switch, characterized by clean sound and vibrant lighting effects.
In terms of housing materials, both the Flaming Pink and Iceberg switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, providing a rich depth to the typing experience. Nylon's softer texture absorbs sound more effectively compared to harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This distinctive trait becomes apparent when typing, as the bottom housing significantly influences the overall feel and auditory response when the switch bottoms out. Therefore, despite being produced by different manufacturers, the switches maintain a consistent approach in crafting appealing sound profiles through the use of similar materials.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both switch designs allows for a harmonious blend of acoustic qualities. While the Flaming Pink's and Aflion Iceberg's top housings excel in clarity and brightness due to their polycarbonate construction, the nylon bottom housings ensure a well-rounded auditory experience. Users can expect that the switches will perform similarly in terms of sound resonance and depth, creating an enjoyable typing experience regardless of the model they choose. This synergy of materials reflects a well-thought-out design strategy that balances individual characteristics while producing complementary effects.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, though the Iceberg is slightly lighter. The Flaming Pink has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Iceberg features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This difference means that the Iceberg could provide a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use in both work and gaming scenarios. For those who prefer a greater force for a more substantial feel, the Flaming Pink, being the heavier of the two, may be the better choice. Overall, while both switches are designed for light use, users seeking the lightest option would benefit from the Aflion Iceberg.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Flaming Pink has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Iceberg features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Flaming Pink the shorter option, catering to those who prefer quicker response times often favored by gamers. In contrast, the Iceberg, with its deeper 4 mm travel distance, may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and a fuller typing experience. Essentially, opting for the Flaming Pink could lead to a more responsive feel, while the Iceberg might provide a more satisfying depth for those who appreciate it. Overall, the choice between these two switches will largely depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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, both the TTC Flaming Pink and Aflion Iceberg switches share a similar profile, with both being described as clacky. The Flaming Pink produces a sharp and snappy sound, characterized by its crisp and bright notes. This sound quality ensures that the typing experience is both engaging and dynamic. On the other hand, the Iceberg also features this clacky essence while adding a high-pitched element, which further contributes to its bright and percussive sound. This makes the Iceberg potentially more resonant than the Flaming Pink, though both switches tend to deliver an enjoyable auditory experience influenced by external factors like the keyboard and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, there’s a clear distinction between the two switches. The Flaming Pink is noted for its silky smoothness, providing a remarkably effortless typing experience that minimizes resistance as fingers make contact with the keys. This quality makes it suitable for anyone looking for a refined typing sensation. In contrast, the Aflion Iceberg boasts a snappier feel, attributed to its two-stage spring mechanism. This feature enhances responsiveness and introduces a unique bouncing quality to the keystrokes. Moreover, the Iceberg is described as both feathery and subtle, making it very light to press while also ensuring a gentle resistance that maintains comfort over extended typing sessions. This difference means that while the Flaming Pink prioritizes seamless smoothness, the Iceberg offers an engaging balance of responsiveness and lightweight action.
In conclusion, both the TTC Flaming Pink and Aflion Iceberg switches provide enjoyable and satisfying experiences, albeit in different ways. The Flaming Pink excels in delivering a smooth, classy sound profile with a refined, silky feel, making it ideal for those who appreciate a muted yet satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Iceberg switches offer a more dynamic sound and a lively typing sensation due to their snappy responsiveness and lightweight characteristics. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, each switch presents its own strengths that will suit different users, particularly in gaming and day-to-day typing scenarios.
Conclusion
To conclude, the decision between the TTC Flaming Pink and the Aflion Iceberg linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you're seeking a smooth, responsive experience with a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 50 grams, the Flaming Pink might be your go-to option. Its clacky sound and silky feel make it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a premium typing experience that works well in both gaming and everyday tasks. However, if you prefer an even lighter touch with a 45-gram bottom-out force and appreciate the benefit of a two-stage spring for a fulfilling, snappy feedback, the Iceberg would be ideal. Its light, feathery feel is perfect for extended typing sessions, minimizing finger fatigue, and its versatility ensures that it won't be too disruptive in shared spaces. Additionally, if you lean towards a high-pitched sound profile, the Iceberg's crisp and bright auditory feedback could be more appealing. Ultimately, assessing what you value most in terms of feel, sound, and application will guide you to the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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