Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Aflion Iceberg

Overview

Introducing two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Aflion Iceberg. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is a tactile switch renowned for its affordability and excellent quality. With a gentle bump that enhances typing flow without being overwhelming, these switches provide a delightful tactile sensation. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser ensures a vibrant RGB lighting display, creating an immersive visual experience. Furthermore, the medium-high pitch of the G Pro Brown delivers satisfying auditory feedback, adding a touch of joy to typing sessions. On the other hand, Aflion's Iceberg switches exhibit the smoothness and satisfaction associated with this relatively new switch manufacturer. Equipped with a two-stage spring, the Iceberg switches offer a fulfilling feel and a unique clackiness. With a high-pitched, snappy, and feathery nature, their subtle characteristics elevate the typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown Tactile

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Aflion Iceberg both feature polycarbonate top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, especially in terms of RGB lighting. So, in terms of sound and aesthetics, these switches offer similar results.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Brown utilizes a nylon material while the Iceberg also features a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, which in turn creates a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of bottom-out sound and feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Iceberg will provide a similar typing experience.

Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Aflion Iceberg offer similar sound profiles due to their polycarbonate top housings. However, the G Pro 3.0 Brown's nylon bottom housing may provide a slightly different typing experience than the Iceberg's nylon bottom housing. While both will offer a deeper and fuller sound, the impact on sound and feel may vary between the two switches. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you are looking for.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, we can see some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Iceberg's lighter actuation force of 37 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Brown will require a bit more pressure to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a heavier force of 63 grams, while the Iceberg has a lighter force of 45 grams.

Considering the weight of the switches, some individuals may prefer the lighter options like the Iceberg switch. The lighter actuation force allows for longer typing sessions, making it suitable for those who use their keyboards extensively for work or gaming. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. For these individuals, the G Pro 3.0 Brown with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces may be more suitable.

Although the forces required for both switches are different, it is worth noting that individuals seeking similar results to the G Pro 3.0 Brown can achieve a comparable experience by opting for the Iceberg switch due to its lighter actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Aflion Iceberg will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that they both travel the same distance from the top to the bottom when pressed down, resulting in a similar tactile feedback. Therefore, whether using the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the Iceberg, users can expect similarly satisfying key presses with the same travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch offers a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory feedback. This adds an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. A clacky switch produces a sharp and snappy sound, while a high-pitched switch produces a sharp and crisp sound. Depending on your preference, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch would provide a more medium-high pitch sound, while the Iceberg switch would offer a sharper and more percussive sound. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is described as easy-to-press, mild, and stepped. It offers gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The mild characteristics of the switch make the sound and feel approachable to most users, as it falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, the stepped design provides a more nuanced tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle. It is super responsive, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. The feathery feel of the switch makes it exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue. The subtle resistance of the switch offers a gentle typing feel, without being too feather-light. This type of switch is also suitable for shared spaces as it does not have a resonant sound signature.

In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch offers a medium-high pitch sound and a feel that is easy to press, mild, and stepped. It provides a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, allowing for a gentle bump that won't overpower your typing flow. Additionally, its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting, creating an immersive visual experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, while offering a snappy, feathery, and subtle feel. Each switch has its own unique qualities, and which one to choose ultimately depends on personal preference. However, if you prefer a similar outcome in terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown's easy-to-press and mild characteristics would provide a comparable experience to the Iceberg switch's snappy and subtle feel.

Conclusion

In closing, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is an excellent choice for those who prioritize a medium bottom out force and enjoy a delightful and subtle tactile sensation. The G Pro Brown offers a medium-high pitch and a satisfying auditory feedback, enhancing the joy of typing. With its frosted light diffuser, it also ensures that your RGB lighting shines brighter, creating an immersive visual experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is a great option for those who prefer a lighter bottom out force. The Iceberg provides a smooth and fulfilling feel, thanks to its two-stage spring. It is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. The feathery and subtle qualities of the Iceberg make it comfortable for extended typing sessions, while its sound signature is suitable for shared spaces. Ultimately, your choice between the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Iceberg will depend on your preferred bottom out force, tactile sensation, and sound profile, as well as your specific typing needs and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown Tactile

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more