TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Aflion Iceberg mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique advantages for different types of users. The Gold Red Pro is praised for its versatility, providing a smooth and easy typing experience with a neutral sound signature that can adapt to any environment. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg stands out for its satisfying smoothness and two-stage spring design, offering a different tactile experience that is both snappy and feathery. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to varying preferences and needs. 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
43g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Aflion Iceberg are both described as having a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. This similarity in housing material suggests that both switches will likely produce a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal when in use.
However, where the two switches differ is in their nylon bottom housing. While the Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing is said to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature and sound-absorbing properties, the Iceberg's nylon bottom housing is likely to offer a similar experience. With both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a consistent typing experience that emphasizes a rounder, fuller sound when compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both switches allows for a well-rounded sound profile that balances sharpness and depth. The split between the top and bottom housings means that users will feel the characteristics of the bottom housing when typing and experience the impact of the top housing when releasing a key. Whether opting for the Gold Red Pro or the Aflion Iceberg, users can expect a tactile and resonant typing experience that is enhanced by the unique properties of each housing material.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it is evident that they differ significantly in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Red Pro has a higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Iceberg's 37 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Iceberg at 45 grams is heavier than the Gold Red Pro, which is unknown. This means that the Iceberg requires a lighter touch to activate the keystroke but offers a more substantial typing experience when bottoming out. In contrast, the Gold Red Pro may provide a more consistent typing experience due to its higher actuation force, although the bottom out force remains uncertain. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with some users favoring a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer a heavier bottom out force for a more tactile typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is 3.8mm, while the Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Iceberg has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gold Red Pro. The Gold Red Pro falls within the range of shorter travel distances which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the Iceberg with its slightly longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more in-depth and substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and response time. Both options offer reliable performance, but the Gold Red Pro provides a slightly shorter travel distance for those seeking quicker keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is best described as having a neutral sound profile, providing a pleasant and harmonious typing experience suitable for any setting. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound, offering a crisp and sharp auditory feedback. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the deep "thocky" sound of the Gold Red Pro, while others may lean towards the snappy and bright sound of the Iceberg.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red Pro switch boasts a polished and silky typing experience, with a mild and subtle resistance that caters to a wide range of users. On the contrary, the Aflion Iceberg switch is known for its snappy and feathery feel, providing a highly responsive and light typing experience. Both switches offer a smooth typing feel, but the specific characteristics of each, such as the two-stage spring in the Iceberg switch, may appeal differently to users based on their preferences for typing feedback.
In summary, the TTC Gold Red Pro and Aflion Iceberg linear switches each bring unique qualities to the table. While the Gold Red Pro excels in its neutral sound profile and polished typing experience, the Iceberg stands out with its clacky sound and snappy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, it's important to note that both switches offer a high level of quality and performance, ensuring that users can expect a satisfying typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, your choice will ultimately depend on your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a versatile switch that offers a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a fulfilling feel and a satisfying smoothness, the Aflion Iceberg switch may be more suited to your liking. Consider the sound and feel characteristics of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and environment. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make sure to choose the one that best fits your individual needs.
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