TTC Flaming Purple vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch to the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Flaming Purple stands out with its resonant character and slightly bassier sound signature, providing an engaging auditory flair with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Iceberg from Aflion boasts a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel thanks to its two-stage spring mechanism. While the Flaming around the 47g bottom-out weight for swift and effortless typing, the Iceberg offers a more clacky and snappy typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities that make them appealing to enthusiasts and everyday typists alike. 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
42g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
47g
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
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the Aflion Iceberg are identical, both featuring polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, adding a touch of customization to the switches. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing.
While the housing materials of the Flaming Purple and Iceberg switches are the same, the impact of each housing material differs based on its placement. The bottom housing, made of nylon, contributes more to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing, crafted from polycarbonate, has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This split between the top and bottom housings allows for a nuanced typing experience, with each housing material playing a distinct role in the overall sound profile of the switch.
In conclusion, both the TTC Flaming Purple and the Aflion Iceberg benefit from the unique qualities of their polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and clear sound profile, while the softer nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. Despite their differences in appearance and design, the switches offer a similar typing experience thanks to their shared housing materials, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces. The Flaming Purple has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, while the Iceberg has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches fall on the lighter side of the force spectrum, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. For individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, they may find that these switches are not as satisfying due to their lighter forces. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a lighter typing experience or a more substantial push feel when typing.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly shorter than the Aflion Iceberg linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Iceberg switch has a slightly longer distance of travel compared to the Flaming Purple switch. The difference in travel distance may impact the typing or gaming experience for users, with the Iceberg switch providing a slightly deeper press. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Flaming Purple switch with the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress may opt for the Iceberg switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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 TTC Flaming Purple linear switch offers a bassy and resonant experience, adding a poppy undertone to each keystroke. In contrast, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and crisp auditory feedback. While the Flaming Purple leans towards a deeper, richer sound profile, the Iceberg delivers a bright and percussive sound when pressed. The choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound, with the Flaming Purple offering a more bass-heavy tone and the Iceberg boasting a higher-pitched, clacky sound.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flaming Purple switch is characterized by its feathery, easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch is noted for its snappy feel, thanks to its super responsive nature attributed to longer or dual-staged springs. Additionally, the Iceberg switch offers a subtle resistance and a light typing feel, catering to those who prefer a gentle keypress without compromising on responsiveness. The Flaming Purple, with its silky and exceptionally smooth typing experience, provides a comfortable and effortless typing feel for enthusiasts and daily typists alike.
Overall, while the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch excels in providing a bassy, resonant sound profile and a feathery, easy-to-press feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch stands out with its clacky, high-pitched sound and snappy, responsive feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Whether you prefer a deeper, more resonant sound with a feathery touch, or a sharp, clacky sound with a snappy feel, both the TTC Flaming Purple and Aflion Iceberg switches deliver exceptional performance in their respective categories. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for sound and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences. If you prioritize a resonant and bassy sound profile with a feathery and easy-to-press typing experience, the Flaming Purple may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound with a snappy and subtle feel, the Iceberg switch could better cater to your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, so choose the one that aligns with your typing style and preferences.
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