Aflion Iceberg vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards. The Iceberg from Aflion, a newer switch manufacturer, is praised for its smoothness and two-stage spring that provides a satisfying feel. It is described as 'clacky', 'high-pitched', 'snappy', 'feathery', and 'subtle'. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches are known for blending tradition with innovation, featuring a single-stage spring for a classic keystroke feel at a medium-heavy weight. Categorized as 'mild', 'polished', and 'stepped', these switches also offer high-precision molds and enhanced backlight effects. Each switch has its own appeal, with the Iceberg excelling in smoothness and satisfying feel, while the Jupiter Brown provides a classic tactile keystroke experience with aesthetic enhancements. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Both the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Jupiter Brown feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users who prefer a distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is perfect for those who enjoy RGB lighting, as it allows for the light to shine through and illuminate the keys. Despite being different switches, the polycarbonate top housing provides a similar sound and aesthetic experience for both the Iceberg and the Jupiter Brown.
On the other hand, the Iceberg's nylon bottom housing and the Jupiter Brown's nylon bottom housing have distinct qualities that affect the typing experience. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This leads to a duller and rounder sound, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a more muted sound while typing. Despite sharing the same bottom housing material, the Iceberg and Jupiter Brown may have slight variations in sound due to other factors such as switch design or keycaps used.
When considering the overall typing experience, the differences in housing materials between the Iceberg and the Jupiter Brown affect the sound and feel of the switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound, the nylon bottom housing in each switch offers a unique sound profile. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing materials highlight the importance of both components in determining the overall typing experience. Users can choose between the Iceberg and the Jupiter Brown based on their preference for sound, feel, and aesthetic appeal.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Iceberg is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The Iceberg requires 37 grams of force to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a heavier switch. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on the force required, with the Iceberg being lighter and the Jupiter Brown being medium-heavy. This allows users to choose a switch that aligns with their preference for typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. It is worth noting that both switches offer a satisfying amount of key travel for users who enjoy a tactile typing experience. Whether you choose the Iceberg or the Jupiter Brown, you can expect a consistent and comfortable typing experience with a travel distance that allows for responsive feedback.
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 Brown 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound that is sharp, crisp, and percussive, giving a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch's sound characteristics are unknown, but it is important to remember that the sound produced also depends on factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Iceberg switch offers a snappy and feathery typing experience due to its two-stage spring, resulting in a responsive and light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue. Its subtle resistance also ensures a comfortable typing feel without being too heavy. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch provides a mild and polished typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. The switch's stepped tactile feedback offers a more subtle tactile bump compared to other switches, making it approachable for most users.
Overall, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Iceberg switch provides a sharper sound with a satisfyingly smooth typing experience, the Jupiter Brown switch offers a more gentle sound and polished typing feel with a subtle tactile feedback. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches can cater to a wide range of users looking for reliable performance and aesthetic appeal in their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light, snappy switch with a clacky sound and a smooth keystroke, the Iceberg may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a more gentle typing experience, a polished finish, and a mild tactile feedback, the Jupiter Brown could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and aesthetics, so it boils down to personal preference and what feels best for you.
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