Aflion Iceberg vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch stand out as two notable options. The Iceberg from Aflion, a newer player in the switch market, offers a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with its two-stage spring providing a unique feel. Known for being 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Iceberg switch is ideal for those seeking a precise and consistent keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is praised for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a 'Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Resonant' typing experience. Enhanced with two-stage springs, the Jupiter Banana switch ensures a strong return and a pleasant tactile feedback. In choosing between these switches, it ultimately comes down to your preference for linear or tactile feedback. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
69g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Jupiter Banana both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff plastic composition. This material is ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for a visually appealing experience. In terms of sound, the polycarbonate top housing will have a significant impact on the overall sound profile of the switch, especially when the key is released.
On the other hand, the Iceberg and the Jupiter Banana differ in their bottom housings, with the Iceberg featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Jupiter Banana also using nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material will primarily affect the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, providing a unique tactile experience for each switch.
Overall, while both the Iceberg and the Jupiter Banana share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing feel. The split between the two housing materials allows for a balanced and well-rounded typing experience, with the qualities of each material shining through depending on whether the key is being pressed or released. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Iceberg has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a stronger push feel may gravitate towards the Jupiter Banana for its medium-heavy force requirements. Ultimately, the Iceberg offers a lighter typing experience, while the Jupiter Banana provides a heavier and more tactile feel when typing. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, with the Iceberg being lighter and the Jupiter Banana being heavier.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Jupiter Banana has a shorter travel distance compared to the Iceberg. The shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Iceberg may offer a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer more depth. Both switches provide different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, so choosing between them depends 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 Gateron Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is highlighted for its high-pitched and resonant qualities, offering a clean and sharp sound profile. Both switches provide a satisfying auditory experience, with the Iceberg leaning towards a sharper sound and the Jupiter Banana providing a more immersive sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle, offering a lively and light typing experience with gentle resistance. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is known for being polished and creamy, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. While the Iceberg focuses on responsiveness and light actuation force, the Jupiter Banana emphasizes smooth key travel and a buttery sensation. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback and comfort during extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch each bring their own set of subjective qualities to the table. The Iceberg excels in providing a sharp and snappy sound profile along with a lively and light typing feel, while the Jupiter Banana offers a more polished sound experience and a smooth, buttery typing sensation. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Additionally, both switches incorporate two-stage springs for enhanced consistency and return during typing. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience with either the Iceberg or Jupiter Banana switch, ensuring a high level of performance and comfort.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Iceberg linear switch or the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, you should take into account your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, satisfying feel with a snappy response, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force with a polished, creamy feel and a high-precision mold for a strong return, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
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