Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Aflion Iceberg both offer unique characteristics to suit different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black, a linear switch, stands out for its heavy actuation and bottom-out force, providing a substantive typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg, also a linear switch, boasts a satisfying smoothness and a two-stage spring for a fulfilling feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a medium-high pitch auditory experience and vibrant RGB lighting effects, the Iceberg is characterized by a high-pitched sound and a snappy feel. 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
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Aflion Iceberg both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a thin and higher-pitched sound, while the Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. Both materials offer a satisfying clicky sound, but the G Pro's INK blend may be slightly less sharp compared to the Iceberg's polycarbonate. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to the Iceberg switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black incorporates a POM housing that generates a deeper and more muted sound profile, whereas the Iceberg utilizes a nylon bottom housing that produces a fuller and rounder sound. The choice between POM and nylon ultimately comes down to personal preference, with POM offering a unique sound profile while nylon provides a classic typing experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller sound compared to the more solid sound of POM.
While both switches offer distinct housing materials for their top and bottom components, the impact of each material varies depending on the type of key press. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing tactile feedback when a key is pressed down. Conversely, the top housing has more influence on the sound produced when a key is released, contributing to the overall typing experience. Despite these differences, users can expect similar results in terms of satisfying clicking sounds and tactile feedback from both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Aflion Iceberg switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences based on weight. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing feel. In contrast, the Iceberg has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, offering a lighter typing experience. Some users may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Black for a more robust and substantial typing feedback, while others may enjoy the lighter touch of the Iceberg for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is the same, resulting in similar typing experiences for users of both switches. Both switches offer a consistent keypress feel with a moderate travel distance, providing a smooth and responsive typing experience for users who prefer linear switches. Whether you choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black or the Aflion Iceberg, you can expect a similar keypress feel due to their identical travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its clacky and somewhat subdued sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy sound upon key press with a medium-high pitch. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch also presents a clacky sound but with a higher-pitched tone, providing a sharper and crisper sound experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that suit different preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Black leaning towards a more balanced and medium pitch sound, while the Iceberg switch offers a sharper and more high-pitched tone.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is praised for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery feel with a medium-heavy actuation and bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is described as snappy and feathery, providing a responsive typing experience with a light actuation force. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel, with the G Pro 3.0 Black emphasizing a smooth and balanced medium-heavy feel, while the Iceberg switch focuses on a snappier and lighter touch.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a clacky sound with a creamy and silky typing feel, the Iceberg switch offers a higher-pitched clacky sound with a snappy and feathery typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches deliver quality performance and can cater to a wide range of typing preferences. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound pitch, typing feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a more substantial typing feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a balanced actuation force, then the G Pro 3.0 Black would be the ideal choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky and somewhat subdued sound profile, this switch may suit your needs. On the other hand, if you favor a smoother and more responsive typing experience with a lighter bottom out force, then the Aflion Iceberg switch would be more suitable. Moreover, if you appreciate a snappy and high-pitched sound profile, this switch may align better with your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the typing feel and sound profile that best matches your personal preferences and typing habits.
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