Aflion Iceberg vs. Gateron Ink Red

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Iceberg and Gateron Ink Red both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Iceberg, manufactured by Aflion, represents the brand's commitment to producing high-quality switches. With its smoothness and two-stage spring, typing on the Iceberg provides a satisfying and fulfilling experience. Categorized as "Clacky," "High-pitched," "Snappy," "Feathery," and "Subtle," the Iceberg switch offers a distinct feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red is perfect for those who prefer a lighter typing style. With a lower actuation force, the Ink Red provides a smooth typing experience and a crispy, clacky sound profile. Categorized as "Neutral," "Silky," "Chirpy," "Mild," and "Polished," the Ink Red switch offers effortless typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch suits you.

By the numbers

Aflion Iceberg Linear

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Ink Red switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. In contrast, the Ink Red utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its top housing, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. While similar in pitch to the Iceberg, the Ink Red's sound profile is described as being clacky, but not overly sharp.

Both the Iceberg and the Ink Red switches have different materials for their bottom housing. The Iceberg utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Ink Red incorporates Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, which contributes to its satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound profile. Despite the difference in sound, both bottom housings offer distinct characteristics that enhance the overall typing experience.

When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the switch's sound and feel, it becomes apparent that the bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. The bottom housing material, whether it is nylon or Gateron's INK blend, plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile when the key is fully pressed. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether polycarbonate or INK blend, has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding these distinctions can assist keyboard enthusiasts in selecting the desired sound and feel for their typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Iceberg has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Ink Red requires 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, making it slightly heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the Iceberg requires 45 grams, providing a consistent and light typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Red has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a more substantial typing feel.

Considering weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Iceberg switch for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. This allows for less finger fatigue and a smoother typing experience. However, for those who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more pronounced typing experience, the Ink Red's slightly heavier forces would be a better choice. Both switches provide reliable keystrokes, but with different force requirements. So, depending on individual preferences, users can achieve similar results in terms of actuation and bottoming out forces, though with a slight difference in weight.

Travel distance

Both the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Aflion Iceberg linear switch is best known for its satisfyingly smooth and fulfilling feel. With its two-stage spring, it provides a snappy and responsive typing experience. In terms of sound, the Iceberg switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, resulting in a crisp, bright, and percussive sound profile. This makes it a great choice for those who enjoy a sharp and snappy sound.

On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is perfect for those with a lighter typing style. It offers a satisfyingly smooth feel, thanks to its silky and polished finish. The Ink Red switch is also known for its mild and approachable characteristics, providing a gentle typing experience that is suitable for most users. In terms of sound, the Ink Red switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user.

Overall, both switches offer smoothness and a pleasing feel. While the Iceberg switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Ink Red switch has a neutral sound with a slight chirpy characteristic. Depending on personal preference, one can choose the switch that suits their typing style and desired sound profile. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Ultimately, whether you go for the Aflion Iceberg or Gateron Ink Red switch, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with similar results.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prefer a light and smooth linear switch, the Aflion Iceberg is a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, it provides a satisfyingly smooth typing experience. The two-stage spring adds to the fulfilling feel of the switch. In terms of sound, the Iceberg has a clacky and high-pitched profile, producing a crisp and bright sound when pressed. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force and a unique acoustic signature, the Gateron Ink Red is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a crispy and clacky sound profile. The Ink Red is effortless to type on and perfect for those with a lighter typing style. In terms of feel, the Iceberg is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle, providing a responsive and comfortable typing experience. The Ink Red, on the other hand, is described as silky, mild, and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Iceberg and Gateron Ink Red depends on your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider your typing style and desired experience to make the best decision for yourself.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more