Aflion Iceberg vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Iceberg and Gateron Jupiter Red are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Iceberg switch from Aflion boasts a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel thanks to its two-stage spring. It is characterized as 'clacky', 'high-pitched', 'snappy', 'feathery', and 'subtle'. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red provides a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a single-stage spring, maintaining a medium-heavy actuation. Categorized as 'polished', 'creamy', 'silky', 'mild', and 'neutral', the Jupiter Reds are known for their high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, offering a seamless 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
The Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Jupiter Red both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Iceberg's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Jupiter Red's nylon bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall.
While both the Iceberg and Jupiter Red utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, the differences lie in their bottom housings. The Iceberg's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Jupiter Red's nylon bottom housing provides a similar experience. The qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing having more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when a key is released. This split creates a unique typing experience for each switch, despite their similarities in material for the top housing.
In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg and Gateron Jupiter Red both offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials. While they share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, the Iceberg's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Jupiter Red. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for different tactile and auditory experiences when typing on each switch. Overall, the differences in housing materials contribute to the overall feel and sound profile of each switch, making them distinct choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch to the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are noticeable differences. The Iceberg has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Jupiter Red's 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. Similarly, the Iceberg has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the Jupiter Red's 60 grams, allowing for a gentler typing experience overall. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Iceberg more comfortable for extended typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial push may prefer the Jupiter Red. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of these two switches offer differing typing experiences to cater to individual preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on either key, users will experience a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, users can expect similar results from both switches. The similarity in travel distance between the Iceberg and Jupiter Red switches showcases their equal responsiveness and tactile feedback, making them both suitable options for those looking for a consistent typing experience.
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 Red 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
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch is known for producing a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, giving off a sharp and crisp auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various settings. When it comes to feel, the Iceberg switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle, providing a responsive and light typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. In comparison, the Jupiter Red switch offers a polished, creamy, silky, and mild typing feel, ensuring a smooth and refined keystroke that minimizes resistance.
Overall, while the Iceberg and Jupiter Red linear switches offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience. If you prefer a sharper and more percussive sound with a responsive typing feel, the Iceberg switch may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a smooth, buttery typing experience, the Jupiter Red switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Iceberg and Gateron Jupiter Red switches will come down to individual preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Iceberg if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, a snappy and feathery feel, and enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a responsive typing experience and a distinct auditory feedback. On the other hand, opt for the Jupiter Red if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, a polished and creamy feel, and a neutral sound profile. This switch is perfect for those who prefer a smoother typing experience with a more moderate sound. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for actuation force, typing feel, and sound profile.
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