Aflion Iceberg vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Iceberg and Kailh BCP stand out as two intriguing options, each catering to different preferences and typing experiences. The Iceberg, from the relatively new manufacturer Aflion, is celebrated for its smooth key presses enhanced by a two-stage spring, delivering a uniquely satisfying feel characterized by clacky, high-pitched, and snappy responses. This makes it an appealing choice for users seeking a refined typing experience that balances feedback and subtle responsiveness. In contrast, the Kailh BCP offers a different sensation, reimagining the classic Black Cherry Pie switches with a custom mold that eliminates the hassles of disassembly while providing a creamy, elastic feel. The BCP’s distinctive character is defined by its poppy, clacky sound profile, making it a perfect fit for those who enjoy a more exuberant auditory feedback when typing. While both switches possess their own charms, they reflect different philosophies in design and user experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Iceberg and the Kailh BCP switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which leads to distinct auditory experiences when typing. The Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is mainly due to polycarbonate’s stiffer structure, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting purposes, allowing for optimal light diffusion. Conversely, the Kailh BCP employs a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer texture. This material absorbs more sound and contributes to a deeper, fuller auditory experience. As a result, while both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Iceberg is inclined towards brighter sound tones, whereas the BCP leans towards a more muted and rounder acoustic signature.
In contrast, both the Aflion Iceberg and Kailh BCP switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, leading to similar sound characteristics in this aspect. Nylon, being a classic material for keyboard switches, retains a consistent capacity to absorb sound and produce a deeper tone due to its softer composition. This shared use of nylon for the bottom housing means both switches will provide a consistent bottom-out feel, emphasizing the plushness and body of the sound when pressing the key down. Thus, while the top housings of both switches introduce diverse auditory experiences, the unified material for the bottom housing reinforces the need for sound absorption, creating a richer typing experience across both models.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in each switch affects the overall auditory feedback experienced by the user. The Iceberg, with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, offers a balanced sound profile that welcomes brighter notes while grounding the acoustics with a fuller bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP, being made entirely of nylon above and below, delivers a consistently round and softer sound profile through and through. It’s in the interaction between these materials where both the Iceberg and BCP can yield results tailored to different user preferences. Key enthusiasts looking for a blend of sharpness with warmth can find a fulfilling experience in the Iceberg, while those who favor a deep, resonant typing feel can fully appreciate the cohesive properties of the nylon-centric BCP.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch to the Kailh BCP linear switch, we observe notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces that cater to distinct user preferences. The Iceberg features a lightweight actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an ideal choice for those who seek a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Kailh BCP has a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Consequently, while the Iceberg is more suitable for users favoring lighter switches, the BCP offers a firmer resistance for those who appreciate a heftier keypress. The differing actuation and bottom out forces emphasize the necessity for users to select a switch that aligns with their specific typing or gaming preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, it is clear that the Iceberg offers a travel distance of 4 mm, while the BCP features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference indicates that the Iceberg is the better option for those who enjoy a more substantial keypress and a feeling of depth, which may be preferred for typing or other tasks where tactile feedback is important. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the BCP may cater to gamers and users who prioritize speed and quick response times, despite potentially feeling more abrupt to some users. Therefore, if you are looking for a more responsive action, the Kailh BCP would be the suitable choice, while the Aflion Iceberg caters to those who appreciate a deeper and more traditional keypress 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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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 sound profile of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch presents a compelling mix of characteristics, notably its clacky and high-pitched qualities. This means that, when pressed, the Iceberg delivers a sharp, snappy sound that can be both crisp and bright, making it quite satisfying to type on. Its percussive nature tends to resonate well in shared workspaces or for users who enjoy auditory feedback during typing sessions. On the other hand, while the Kailh BCP linear switch is also designed to provide a rewarding auditory experience, specific sound descriptors are not provided. It is reasonable to expect that Kailh's attention to acoustics could deliver a distinct sound, but without more detailed information, it's challenging to draw a direct comparison.
In terms of feel, the Iceberg linear switch excels with an engaging typing experience characterized by its snappy responsiveness and feathery lightness. Thanks to its dual-staged spring, users will find that it requires minimal effort to actuate, reducing fatigue across long typing sessions. Additionally, the subtle resistance it offers can make the typing experience feel comfortable while remaining quiet enough for collaborative environments. Conversely, details about the feel of the BCP linear switch are absent, leading to uncertainty about its tactile characteristics. However, given Kailh’s reputation for innovation, one might expect that it also offers a unique and enjoyable typing feel.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Iceberg and Kailh BCP linear switches both present potential for a satisfying keyboard experience, the Iceberg stands out with its well-defined sound profile and responsive feel. The clarity and crispness of the Iceberg's sound is likely to appeal to users who value auditory feedback, while its smooth and engaging tactile qualities enhance long typing sessions. Without explicit details on the BCP's sound and feel, one can only speculate on its performance, but the strong reputation of Kailh suggests it could very well offer a noteworthy alternative. Ultimately, both switches may serve those looking for quality linear switches, but the Iceberg currently shines in defined characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, consider your typing preferences and usage scenarios carefully. If you’re after a lighter switch that offers a snappy, feathery feel and a satisfying actuation without too much exertion, the Iceberg is an excellent choice, especially for extended typing sessions, gaming, or simply enjoying a responsive feel. Its clacky and high-pitched sound signature makes it a lively option, ideal for users who appreciate a more engaging auditory experience. Conversely, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch and enjoy a bouncier and more elastic typing experience, the Kailh BCP would suit you better. The BCP's deeper and more vibrant sound profile, coupled with its custom-molded design, allows for a richer tactile experience, perfect for those who favor a strong feedback and character in their switch. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not just the feel but also the sound and weight you find most comfortable in your typing or gaming environment.
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