TTC Gold Pink vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Pink and the Aflion Iceberg both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gold Pink is known for its incredibly light 37g actuation force, making it ideal for those who value a fast and effortless typing experience. This switch is perfect for rapid typing or gaming and offers a satisfying level of feedback with its clacky sound. On the other hand, the Iceberg by Aflion showcases the quality that this relatively new switch manufacturer brings to the table. With a smooth profile and a two-stage spring, the Iceberg provides a fulfilling feel during typing sessions. While both switches offer their own set of advantages, 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
37g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Pink and the Aflion Iceberg have similar housing materials, with both switches featuring polycarbonate top housings. This material choice leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, which is particularly beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting. Both switches offer the advantages of polycarbonate, resulting in similar sound profiles and aesthetics.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Gold Pink and the Iceberg utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material brings a deeper and fuller sound profile to typing experience. The use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, as it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Both switches provide the benefits of nylon, enhancing the overall sound profile during typing.
When considering the overall impact of these housing materials, it is important to note that the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. The softer nylon material used in the bottom housing creates a more pronounced sound and tactile feedback during keystrokes. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. The selection of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a distinct sound profile when keys are released. Both switches demonstrate a thoughtful consideration of sound production and feedback through the use of different housing materials.
In summary, while the TTC Gold Pink and the Aflion Iceberg have similar housing materials in terms of their polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, each housing material brings its own unique qualities to the switch. The polycarbonate top housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, particularly suitable for those utilizing RGB lighting. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom housing enhances the typing experience by generating a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches offer a comprehensive sound profile, with differences in the shifting tactile feedback and sound production, depending on the specific housing material used.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 37 grams and bottom out force of 45 grams, making them relatively light switches. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke and the feeling when pressing the keys all the way down. Both switches offer a lighter typing experience, which can be advantageous for individuals who prefer to type for extended periods, whether it be for work or gaming. However, if a user prefers a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, they may want to consider options with heavier forces, as both the Gold Pink and Iceberg switches are on the lighter end of the spectrum.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance you feel when using both of these switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch offers a clacky sound. This means that when the switch is pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is described as high-pitched, which means it produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches offer satisfying sound profiles, with the Gold Pink being clacky and the Iceberg being high-pitched.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. This means that it provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, it has a light actuation force which reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Aflion Iceberg linear switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle. This implies that it is super responsive, light to press, and offers a gentle resistance while still maintaining a light typing feel. Both switches provide a pleasant typing experience with varying characteristics.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Pink and Aflion Iceberg linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Pink has a clacky sound and a buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished feel. On the other hand, the Iceberg has a high-pitched sound and a snappy, feathery, and subtle feel. Both switches are suitable for those who value a light and lively typing experience, and they provide satisfying feedback. However, it is important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as keyboard board and keycaps when choosing between the two.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Pink and the Aflion Iceberg linear switches, you should consider your specific preferences and typing needs. The Gold Pink switches are ideal for those who value a fast and effortless typing experience, making them perfect for rapid typing or gaming. With their light bottom out force of 45 grams and a satisfying level of feedback, they deliver a light and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Iceberg switches from Aflion offer a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel due to their two-stage spring. They are also relatively light with a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches provide a light typing feel, which reduces finger fatigue and makes them comfortable for extended typing sessions. Furthermore, if you prefer a sharper and snappier sound, the Gold Pink switches are a great choice, while the Iceberg switches offer a high-pitched and crisp sound. Ultimately, the decision between the Gold Pink and Iceberg switches comes down to your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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