KTT Glimp vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the KTT Glimp and the Aflion Iceberg, two linear keyboard switches that offer unique features and qualities. The Glimp switch from KTT is renowned for striking the perfect balance between a substantial typing experience and manageable resistance. With its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, the Glimp switch provides a satisfying and responsive typing feel. This switch also offers an enjoyable auditory element with its fairly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, we have the Aflion Iceberg, a switch from a relatively new manufacturer. However, the Iceberg switch showcases the quality and innovation that Aflion delivers. With its smoothness and two-stage spring, typing on the Iceberg switch feels exceptionally fulfilling. The Iceberg switch's unique combination of clacky, high-pitched, snappy, feathery, and subtle characteristics creates a distinct typing experience. Both switches have their distinct advantages and qualities to offer. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you make the best decision in choosing the switch that suits your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
18mm spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Glimp and the Aflion Iceberg both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a similar sound profile for both keyboards. The use of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, whether you choose the Glimp or the Iceberg, you can expect to experience the same benefits in terms of sound quality and aesthetics.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Glimp and Iceberg feature nylon. The use of nylon in switch housings gives them a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other materials. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Whether you're typing on the Glimp or the Iceberg, you can expect a satisfying and resonant typing experience due to the nylon bottom housing.
While both keyboards share similarities in their housing materials, it's important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch can have different impacts on the overall typing experience. The qualities brought by each material are split between the top and bottom, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, and the top housing affecting the sound when the key is released. Therefore, while the Glimp and Iceberg may provide similar results in terms of sound and feel, there may be subtle differences in the way each keyboard responds to keystrokes.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which falls within the medium-light range. On the other hand, the Iceberg has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. Consequently, the Iceberg is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Glimp.
Weight is an important factor to consider for keyboard enthusiasts. Those who prefer a lighter switch may lean towards the Iceberg, as it allows for longer typing periods and is well-suited for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals seeking a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Glimp, with its higher actuation and bottom out forces. It should be noted, however, that if similar results are desired, both switches still offer relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for most users.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Both switches provide a consistent and comfortable keystroke feel, ensuring a smooth typing experience. Therefore, whether you choose the KTT Glimp or the Aflion Iceberg, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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 KTT Glimp and the Aflion Iceberg switches are described as "clacky." This means that they produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving your typing sessions an enjoyable auditory element. However, the Iceberg switches are also described as "high-pitched," which means they produce a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Glimp switches. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile, then the Iceberg switches might be a better choice for you. It's worth noting that the sound of a switch also depends on other factors such as your choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the KTT Glimp switches are described as "creamy" and "mild." This means that they offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a gentle and approachable feel. Typing on these switches feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as each keystroke effortlessly melts into the switch. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switches are described as "snappy," "feathery," and "subtle." The snappy nature of these switches makes them super responsive, giving your typing experience a lively feel. Additionally, the feathery actuation force of the Iceberg switches reduces finger fatigue and makes them comfortable for extended typing sessions. The subtle resistance of the switches also ensures a gentle typing feel, and the sound signature is not resonant, making them suitable for shared spaces.
Overall, both the KTT Glimp and the Aflion Iceberg switches offer satisfying and responsive typing experiences. The Glimp switches strike a balance for those seeking a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance, providing a comfortable actuation force and tactile feedback. The Iceberg switches showcase the quality of switches produced by Aflion, with a satisfying smoothness and fulfilling feel due to their two-stage spring. While the Glimp switches have a creamy and mild feel, the Iceberg switches have a snappy, feathery, and subtle feel. The sound of both switches is clacky, but the Iceberg switches have a higher-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a medium-light switch that offers a balanced typing experience without overwhelming resistance, the KTT Glimp linear switch is a great choice. Its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force provide a satisfying and responsive typing feel. Additionally, the fairly clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a smooth and fulfilling feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch would be a suitable option. The two-stage spring in the Iceberg switch provides a satisfying smoothness, making the typing experience feel more alive. Moreover, the Iceberg switch has a high-pitched sound profile, perfect for those who prefer sharper and crisper sound profiles. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches depends on your preference for actuation force, typing experience, and sound profile.
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