Aflion Iceberg vs. Gateron Ink Box Black

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available for users to choose from, each offering unique features and benefits. Two switches that stand out are the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Ink Box Black, both being linear switches. The Iceberg, produced by the relatively new switch manufacturer Aflion, is known for its exceptional quality. With its smoothness and satisfying feel, thanks to its two-stage spring, it provides an immersive typing experience. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', it offers a variety of tactile feedback options to suit different preferences. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black is celebrated for its smooth and creamy operation, reminiscent of shaking a spray paint can. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', it provides a different set of characteristics to cater to individual tastes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Iceberg Linear

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Ink Box Black differ significantly. The Iceberg utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Iceberg's top housing is translucent, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. In contrast, the Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is not overly sharp. This creates a satisfying thin and clacky sound. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing emphasizes clarity, while the Ink Box Black's proprietary blend focuses on a satisfying clacky sound.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Iceberg incorporates a nylon material. It results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the nylon's softness, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Consequently, the sound produced is duller and rounder. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black utilizes its proprietary INK blend for the bottom housing, offering a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This contributes to the switch's overall clacky sound. Despite both switches using different materials for the bottom housing, they share the common goal of creating a unique sound experience. The Iceberg favors a deeper and fuller sound, while the Ink Box Black focuses on a higher-pitched and clacky sound.

When it comes to pressing down and releasing keys, the housing materials play a crucial role. In switches with differing top and bottom housings like the Iceberg and Ink Box Black, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the bottom and the top of the switch. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing predominantly affects the sound when the key is released. Thus, the choice of housing materials in these switches contributes to the overall typing experience by shaping the sound at different stages of key press. Despite the differing materials used in the Aflion Iceberg and Gateron Ink Box Black, both switches aim to enhance the auditory feedback during typing, albeit in different ways.

Weight

In comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Aflion Iceberg has a relatively lighter actuation force of 37 grams, which means it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Similarly, when considering bottoming out, the Iceberg requires 45 grams of force, while the Ink Box Black has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. Overall, the Iceberg offers a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer periods of typing, while the Ink Box Black provides a medium-heavy push feel, which may be preferred by those seeking a more robust typing experience.

Travel distance

The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch have different travel distances. The Iceberg has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Ink Box Black has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Iceberg has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ink Box Black.

In terms of preference, the 4.0mm travel distance of the Iceberg is more traditional, providing a deeper key press experience. On the other hand, the 3.6mm travel distance of the Ink Box Black is considered shallower, which may be favored by gamers for its faster response times.

Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference. If you prefer a more responsive feel with shorter travel distance, the Ink Box Black may be the better option for you. However, if you enjoy a deeper key press and find shorter travel distances too abrupt, the Iceberg with its longer travel distance may be more suitable. Both switches offer their own advantages, so it is important to consider your individual typing or gaming needs when making a decision.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the Aflion Iceberg and Gateron Ink Box Black switches share similar qualities. They are described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile, these switches may not be the best choice for you. However, 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.

In terms of feel, the Iceberg and Ink Box Black switches have different characteristics. The Iceberg switches are described as snappy, which means they are super responsive and provide a lively typing experience. This is achieved through the use of longer or dual-staged springs. Additionally, they have a feathery feel, requiring little exertion from your fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes them comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Ink Box Black switches, on the other hand, are described as silky and polished. They offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The smooth and refined finish of these switches results in a sleek typing experience, thanks to materials used or factory lubing. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your personal preference for responsiveness and smoothness.

In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg and Gateron Ink Box Black switches have distinct subjective qualities. The Iceberg switches are known for their smoothness and fulfilling feel, with a snappy and feathery sensation. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black switches are incredibly smooth and creamy, providing a silky and polished typing experience. While both switches have clacky and high-pitched sound profiles, the feel of the switches is what sets them apart. It is important to consider your personal preferences and requirements when choosing between these switches, as they offer different tactile experiences. However, if you are looking for similar results in terms of sound and feel, either switch could be a suitable option.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch depends on your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter switch with a bottom out force of 45 grams, the Iceberg is a great option. It offers a smooth and fulfilling feel thanks to its two-stage spring. Additionally, it has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which may appeal to those who enjoy a crisp and bright sound when typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a bottom out force of 70 grams, the Ink Box Black is worth considering. It provides an incredibly smooth and creamy typing experience, making it ideal for those who value a silky and polished feel. Like the Iceberg, it also has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more