Aflion Iceberg vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Iceberg and the HMX Jammy linear switches stand out as popular options in the market. The Aflion Iceberg, hailed as a representation of Aflion's high-quality switches, offers a smooth typing experience with a two-stage spring for a unique feel. Known for being clacky, high-pitched, snappy, feathery, and subtle, the Iceberg switch provides a satisfying tactile response. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy features a softer nylon housing, giving it a muted yet deeply satisfying typing experience. While the Iceberg switch may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Jammy switch may attract individuals looking for a quieter typing experience. 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
37g
Actuation force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the HMX Jammy, it's clear that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that typing on switches with nylon bottom housing in both the Iceberg and the Jammy will provide a similar tactile and auditory experience, emphasizing the importance of the bottom housing in influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
However, the top housings of the Iceberg and the Jammy differ, with the Iceberg using polycarbonate and the Jammy utilizing nylon. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while also being translucent and ideal for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Jammy provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature absorbing more sound. This contrast in top housing materials highlights how the material used can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Aflion Iceberg and HMX Jammy demonstrates the varying effects different plastics can have on sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches use nylon for their bottom housings, creating a similar deep and full sound, the difference in top housing materials - polycarbonate for the Iceberg and nylon for the Jammy - results in distinct auditory profiles. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound production and typing feel can help users choose switches that align with their preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the HMX Jammy linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 57 grams. The bottom out force of the Iceberg is also lighter at 45 grams, while the Jammy has a heavier bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that the Iceberg switch is better suited for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Jammy switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, it is evident that the Iceberg has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm while the Jammy's travel distance is slightly shorter at 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Iceberg being on the longer side and the Jammy on the shorter side. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Jammy with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Iceberg with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The HMX Jammy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jammy for $2.99.
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 Aflion Iceberg linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics, giving it a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy linear switch's sound profile is not specified. Depending on personal preferences and other factors such as keyboard and keycap choices, the sound produced by each switch may vary.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Iceberg linear switch is described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience due to its two-stage spring design. Additionally, it is mentioned to have a feathery and subtle feel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Conversely, the feel of the HMX Jammy linear switch is not specified. However, with the medium-weight and glittery nylon housings, it can be inferred that the Jammy switch may provide a typing experience that is muted and satisfying in a different way than the Iceberg switch.
Overall, both the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Iceberg switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, along with a snappy and feathery feel, the Jammy switch provides a different typing experience with its medium-weight and glittery nylon housings. Depending on individual preferences and typing styles, users can achieve satisfying results with either switch option.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a lighter bottom out force and a smooth typing experience with a two-stage spring, the Iceberg may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a satisfyingly muted typing experience provided by glittery nylon housings, the Jammy switch could be more suitable. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile along with a snappy and feathery typing feel, the Iceberg may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom out force, typing experience, sound profile, and feel.
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