Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Aflion Iceberg, two linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and advantages. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is renowned for its budget-friendly nature and delivers a smooth typing experience, striking a perfect balance between responsiveness and ease of use. With a medium-light actuation force, this switch ensures effortless keystrokes. Additionally, the G Pro Red boasts a frosted light diffuser that enhances RGB lighting effects, while its medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg, produced by a relatively new switch manufacturer, showcases the quality typical of Aflion switches. These stellar Iceberg switches embody a satisfying smoothness and an enhanced feel thanks to their two-stage spring design. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Iceberg switch promises an exceptional typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your preferences and requirements.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Aflion Iceberg, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prioritize the auditory experience of their keyboard. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetics of the switches, particularly when paired with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and visual appeal from both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Iceberg.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is a classic switch housing material, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. Its softer nature allows for increased sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound from both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Iceberg, thanks to the utilization of nylon in their bottom housings.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Iceberg, it is important to note that the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switches. When pressing down on the switches, the user will primarily feel the impact and characteristics of the bottom housing, which influences the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, when releasing a key, the top housing will have a greater impact on the resulting sound. Therefore, while the housing materials may differ slightly, the overall typing experience and sound profile of the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Iceberg should be quite comparable.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it is clear that both switches prioritize a lighter touch. The G Pro 3.0 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Iceberg features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches offer a relatively light actuation force, making them ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Similarly, the bottom out forces are also on the lighter side, allowing for a gentle keystroke. Therefore, users of both switches can expect similar results in terms of typing experience, as both switches provide a lightweight touch. This is beneficial for those who seek extended typing or gaming sessions without experiencing fatigue. However, it's worth noting that the G Pro 3.0 Red has slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces than the Iceberg, making it marginally heavier in terms of force required. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference, with the G Pro 3.0 Red offering a slightly more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same 4 mm of travel. So, in terms of travel distance, both switches will give you similar results. Neither one is shorter or longer than the other in this regard. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Red or the Iceberg, you can expect the same level of key travel when typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red 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 Red 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 Red switch is described as neutral, meaning it has a moderate sound profile that suits most purposes. It strikes a balance between being too loud and too quiet, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. It produces a sharp, crisp sound that is bright and percussive when pressed. If you prefer a richer and bassy sound profile, the Iceberg switch may be a better choice for you.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky. It offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, thanks to the lubricant applied in the factory and the materials used. Typing on these switches feels effortless, as your fingers glide across the keys with ease. The Iceberg switch, on the other hand, is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle. It is super responsive, thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs, which makes the typing experience feel more alive. The actuation force required is light, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions.
Taking all this information into consideration, it is clear that the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch and the Aflion Iceberg switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Red switch provides a neutral sound profile and a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the Iceberg switch offers a clacky, high-pitched sound profile and a snappy, feathery, and subtle typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, you can choose the switch that suits you best. If you prefer a similar sound profile or typing experience, you can achieve similar results by selecting certain components for your keyboard, such as the keycaps and board choice, which also influence sound and feel.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch depends on your personal preferences and specific needs. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth typing experience and a good balance between responsiveness and ease of use, the G Pro 3.0 Red is a great choice. With its frosted light diffuser, it also allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and user levels.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a fulfilling feel and a snappy sound, the Aflion Iceberg switch is worth considering. It features a two-stage spring that enhances the responsiveness and liveliness of the typing experience. The Iceberg switch has a clacky sound profile, which produces a sharp and crisp sound that some users may find satisfying. Additionally, if you prefer a feathery typing feel with little exertion required, the Iceberg switch provides a light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
In the end, it is important to consider both sound and feel preferences when choosing a mechanical keyboard switch. If you value a more neutral sound and creamy feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red is a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a snappy sound and a feathery or subtle typing experience, the Aflion Iceberg switch may be more appealing to you. Ultimately, the decision boils down to personal preference and the specific characteristics you prioritize in a keyboard switch.
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