Aflion Iceberg vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Iceberg and Keygeek Raw both offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Iceberg by Aflion boasts a smooth and satisfying feel with its two-stage spring, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a clacky, high-pitched, and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw stands out for its blend of Nylon, UMPE, Silicon materials, creating a creamy yet lightweight switch that provides a slightly textured feel out of the box. While the Iceberg may appeal to those looking for a more traditional linear switch, the Keygeek Raw caters to enthusiasts who prefer to customize and hand-lube their switches for a personalized touch. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw offer different characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Keygeek Raw's Nylon & UPE blend top housing offers a unique sound experience exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches. The polycarbonate material is known for its stiffness, creating a more resonant sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting. On the other hand, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Aflion Iceberg features a nylon material, known for offering a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Keygeek Raw's UMPE & Si blend bottom housing. The nylon material's softness absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound when typing on the switches. On the other hand, the exclusive blend of UMPE & Si in the Keygeek Raw switches offers a unique sound experience that sets it apart from other switches on the market. Each housing material brings a different quality to the switch, impacting the overall typing experience for the user.
While the housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw offer unique sound profiles due to their different properties, they both play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the Iceberg's top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, while the Nylon & UPE blend top housing of the Keygeek Raw offers an exclusive sound experience. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Iceberg provides a deeper sound profile, while the UMPE & Si blend bottom housing of the Keygeek Raw offers its own distinct sound characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Iceberg requires 45 grams, while the Keygeek Raw needs 57.5 grams, making it heavier. The lighter actuation force of the Iceberg may appeal to those who prefer a softer touch and extended typing sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the Keygeek Raw could provide a more robust typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, it is evident that the Keygeek Raw has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Iceberg's 4 mm. The difference of 0.6 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Individuals who prioritize speed and quick response times may prefer the Keygeek Raw with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Iceberg. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 is known for producing a clacky and high-pitched sound, giving users a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Depending on personal preference, the Iceberg switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a more distinctive and lively typing sound, while the Keygeek Raw switch provides a more versatile option for everyday use.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offers a snappy and feathery typing experience, with a two-stage spring mechanism that enhances responsiveness and reduces finger fatigue. Additionally, the switch provides a subtle resistance that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch is described as having a textured feel right out of the box, offering a slightly scratchy sensation that may appeal to users who prefer a tactile typing experience. The switch also provides a mild and subtle typing feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone for most users.
Overall, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Iceberg switch provides a clacky, high-pitched sound and a snappy, feathery feel, the Keygeek Raw switch offers a more neutral sound profile and a textured, mildly tactile typing experience. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Iceberg linear switch or the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, you should take into account the bottom out force, sound profile, and feel of each switch. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a snappy and feathery feel, along with a clacky and high-pitched sound, then the Aflion Iceberg switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a textured and mild feel, along with a neutral sound profile, then the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switch might be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and needs.
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