Aflion Iceberg vs. KTT Laurel

Overview

Introducing the Aflion Iceberg and the KTT Laurel, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and characteristics for the discerning keyboard enthusiast. The Iceberg, a linear switch from Aflion, showcases the exceptional quality and innovation associated with this relatively new switch manufacturer. Renowned for its smoothness and satisfying feel, the Iceberg impresses with its two-stage spring design. Categorized as both clacky and high-pitched, this switch delivers a snappy and feathery typing experience. On the other hand, the Laurel, a medium-light linear switch from KTT, boasts a full POM housing and a short travel distance that promises optimal responsiveness and comfort. Notably, its long pole design strikes the perfect balance between tactile feedback and ease of use. Furthermore, the Laurel emits a subtly low-pitched sound, adding a touch of sophistication to your typing experience. Both switches have their unique strengths and appeal, offering a superior typing experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond generalities to help you determine the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Aflion Iceberg Linear

KTT Laurel Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Iceberg and the KTT Laurel differ in their choice of housing materials, specifically the top and bottom housings. The Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Laurel opts for a POM top housing. Polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a more resonant sound. POM, on the other hand, produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the choice between them ultimately comes down to individual preference. Additionally, due to its translucency, polycarbonate is better suited for switches that incorporate RGB lighting.

In terms of the bottom housings, the Iceberg utilizes a nylon material, while the Laurel uses POM. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This creates a deeper and fuller typing experience on switches with nylon bottom housings. Likewise, POM bottom housings bring their own set of qualities, including a unique and pleasing sound profile that tends towards the deeper side. While both materials enhance the overall typing experience, the specific characteristics of the sound will vary between the nylon and POM housings.

When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings, there is an interesting distinction to note. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning that when you press down on the switch, you will primarily experience the qualities of the bottom housing. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when you release a key. This differentiation highlights the significance of both the top and bottom housing materials in contributing to the overall sound profile and typing experience of a switch. Whether they share similarities or possess distinct characteristics, these housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the auditory and tactile aspects of using mechanical keyboards.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, there are noticeable similarities and differences. The Iceberg has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Laurel's 43 grams. This means that the Iceberg requires less force to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the Iceberg has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the Laurel's 50 grams. This implies that when fully pressing the keys, the Iceberg requires less force. Both switches can provide a relatively lighter typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer effortless typing or require extended usage without strain. However, it's important to note that the Laurel switch is slightly heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out force, which may appeal to individuals seeking a more substantial and heavier push feel during typing. Overall, individuals looking for a lighter key feel may opt for the Iceberg switch, while those desiring a slightly heavier force may prefer the Laurel switch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, it is clear that the Iceberg has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Laurel has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Iceberg's travel distance is more in line with the traditional 4 mm distance, offering a deeper and more pronounced feel when the key is pressed. On the other hand, the Laurel's slightly shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers or those who prioritize faster response times. This shorter distance allows for quicker keystrokes and a more responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - if a more pronounced and deeper press is desired, the Iceberg is the better option, while those looking for a faster response time may opt for the Laurel. However, it is important to consider that both switches offer a comparable level of travel distance, ensuring that the end result, in terms of user experience, will be similar.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is best described as clacky and high-pitched. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, with a crisp, bright, and percussive quality. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch has a subtly low-pitched sound profile. It offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used. Overall, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Iceberg would be a better choice, while if you prefer a more mellow and low-pitched sound, the Laurel would be more suitable.

Moving on to feel, both the Iceberg and Laurel switches are described as snappy. This means that they are highly responsive and provide a tactile typing experience. This responsiveness is often attributed to longer or dual-staged springs in the switches, which enhances the overall typing feel and makes it feel more alive. Additionally, the Iceberg switch is also described as feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and requires minimal exertion from the fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Iceberg also has a subtle typing feel, with gentle resistance and a non-resonant sound signature, making it suitable for shared spaces. The Laurel, on the other hand, does not have any additional descriptors aside from being snappy. Therefore, if you prioritize a feathery typing experience, the Iceberg switch would be the preferred choice.

In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iceberg switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound experience. Its feel is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle, offering high responsiveness, a light typing feel, and a non-resonant sound. On the other hand, the Laurel switch has a subtly low-pitched sound profile, with a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. Its feel is solely described as snappy, meaning it provides a responsive typing experience. Depending on your preferences, you can achieve similar results in terms of sound and responsiveness with both switches. However, if you specifically desire a feathery typing feel, the Iceberg switch would be the recommended choice.

Conclusion

In summary, when choosing between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, the decision will depend on your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. Both switches have a light bottom out force, with the Iceberg at 45 grams and the Laurel at 50 grams.

If you value a fulfilling smoothness and a two-stage spring in your switch, the Iceberg is a great choice. The Iceberg switches from Aflion offer a satisfying feel and a light typing experience, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for long typing sessions. Additionally, if you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Iceberg is the way to go.

On the other hand, the Laurel from KTT offers a perfect balance of responsiveness and comfort. With its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, the Laurel switch provides a medium-light linear experience. It has a slightly higher bottom out force compared to the Iceberg, but still falls within the light category. The Laurel also offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile, which may be more pleasing if you prefer a mellow and bass-heavy tone.

Ultimately, the choice between the Iceberg and the Laurel will depend on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a snappy and fulfilling feel with a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Iceberg is the switch for you. However, if you prefer a switch that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, with a subtly low-pitched sound, the Laurel is a great option. Happy typing!

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

KTT Laurel Linear

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

Learn more