Aflion Iceberg vs. Bsun Light Sakura
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Bsun Light Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact your typing experience, and two exceptional linear switches to consider are the Aflion Iceberg and the Bsun Light Sakura. The Aflion Iceberg, produced by a relatively new manufacturer, offers a delightful blend of smoothness and a satisfying two-stage spring feel that typists may find invigorating. Characterized by its clacky, high-pitched, and snappy feedback, this switch is perfect for users who enjoy a more pronounced response in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Bsun Light Sakura focuses on providing a silent and ultra-light touch, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize comfort during extended typing sessions in quiet office environments. Its gentle feel ensures a fatigue-reducing experience while maintaining discretion in shared spaces. While both switches offer unique advantages, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Iceberg and the Bsun Light Sakura employ polycarbonate for their top housings, which establishes a fundamental similarity in how they will deliver sound profiles. The polycarbonate, noted for being a stiffer plastic, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Its translucency allows for better integration with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal for users interested in visually captivating keyboard designs. Thus, both models are poised to yield similar auditory experiences when it comes to typographical feedback and visual illumination capabilities.
In contrast, the bottom housings of these two switches diverge significantly. The Iceberg features a nylon bottom housing that is renowned for its sound-absorbing qualities, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic serves to create a more muted typing experience, contrasting with the pronounced clarity provided by the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Light Sakura pairs its polycarbonate top with a polycarbonate bottom housing, which reinforces the sharper sound profile established at the top. This integration of the same material at both ends promises a more consistent auditory experience, leading to a clear and resonant sound throughout the action of the switch.
Ultimately, the combination of materials results in distinct typing experiences between the two switches. While both offer a vibrant sound profile from the polycarbonate top, the Iceberg's nylon bottom housing provides a contrasting depth that can feel more substantial when typing. Conversely, the uniformity in material used in the Light Sakura may appeal to those who favor a consistent, clear sound profile. In practical terms, if users seek varied tactile feedback, the Iceberg's hybrid strategy may satisfy those needs, while enthusiasts of sharper sound will likely favor the Light Sakura’s cohesive use of polycarbonate throughout both housings.
Weight
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch both feature an actuation force of 37 grams, making them equally lightweight and suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Iceberg requiring 45 grams to fully depress, while the Light Sakura bottoms out at 43 grams. This means that while both switches provide a similar feel when initially pressing down, the Iceberg switch offers a slightly firmer resistance at the bottom of the keystroke. For users who appreciate a more substantial push feel, the Iceberg may be the preferable choice, despite both switches being categorized as light. Consequently, the Iceberg is the heavier option in terms of bottom out force, while the Light Sakura remains the lighter alternative for those who enjoy a softer touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The Iceberg features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Light Sakura has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Iceberg the option for those who prefer a deeper, more pronounced keypress, which can be more satisfying for certain typing experiences. On the other hand, the Light Sakura's shorter travel distance caters to gamers seeking quicker response times, allowing for faster actuation. For individuals who value immediate feedback and a snappier feel, the 3.6 mm distance may be more appealing. Therefore, while both switches are designed for different preferences—one prioritizing depth and the other emphasizing speed—the Iceberg remains the longer switch, favoring a traditional feel, while the Light Sakura offers a more modern, gamer-oriented responsiveness.
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 Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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 switch stands out with its distinctively clacky and high-pitched sound profile. This results in a sharp and crisp auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying, adding to the overall experience of typing. Its pronounced sound can be especially pronounced in environments where acoustic feedback is appreciated, making each keystroke feel more impactful. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura is a silent switch, characterized by its discreet operation. This makes it particularly suitable for quieter environments, such as offices or shared workspaces, where reducing noise is essential. Thus, while the Iceberg offers a vibrant auditory experience, the Light Sakura caters to those who prefer to keep their typing as unobtrusive as possible.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Iceberg excels with a combination of snappy responsiveness and a feathery touch. The dual-stage spring design enhances its liveliness, providing a typing experience that feels both engaging and effortless. This makes it a compelling choice for those who enjoy a dynamic and interactive feel while typing. Additionally, its subtle resistance allows users to enjoy a smooth typing experience without excessive fatigue, catering to longer sessions. On the other hand, the Bsun Light Sakura's ultra-light feel is intentionally designed for comfort, prioritizing easy key presses to minimize strain during extended typing. This switch is ideal for individuals looking to maximize their comfort level, especially during long productivity sessions.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Iceberg and Bsun Light Sakura linear switches cater to different preferences among typists. The Iceberg offers an energizing auditory experience paired with a satisfying feel, making it suitable for those who appreciate feedback in their typing. Conversely, the Light Sakura's focus on silent operation and ultra-light touch provides an excellent environment for discreet and comfortable typing. Whether you prefer the lively engagement of the Iceberg or the quiet comfort of the Light Sakura, both switches can provide a fulfilling typing experience tailored to your needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Aflion Iceberg and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switches ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re someone who enjoys a more tactile response and a lively, clacky sound, the Iceberg is an excellent choice, as it provides an engaging typing experience thanks to its snappy feel and smoothness delivered by its two-stage spring design. This switch is particularly suited for gamers or typists who appreciate clear auditory feedback and a bit more personality in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if your priority is comfort during extended typing sessions, especially in quiet or shared environments, the Light Sakura would serve you better. Its ultra-light feel and silent operation make it perfect for long hours of work without fatiguing your fingers or disturbing those around you. In summary, if you seek a more dynamic and responsive typing experience, opt for the Iceberg; however, if discretion and comfort are your top priorities, the Light Sakura is sure to meet your needs.
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