Aflion Iceberg vs. Outemu Lime
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Lime switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Lime. The Iceberg, produced by the relatively new switch manufacturer Aflion, showcases the company's commitment to quality. With its smoothness and two-stage spring, it offers a satisfying feel while typing. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Iceberg switch provides a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Lime switch from Outemu boasts its lightweight nature and approachable tactility. It is particularly appealing to tactile fans who desire a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility. Classified as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', the Lime switch offers a distinct typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Lime, we can see some similarities and differences. Both switches have a nylon bottom housing, which means they will elicit a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This is because nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. However, their top housings differ – the Iceberg has a polycarbonate top housing, while the Lime has a nylon top housing. The Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is also translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Lime's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. So, while the bottom housings have similar characteristics, the top housings offer distinct sound experiences.
Despite the differences in their housing materials, both the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Lime provide unique sound profiles. The Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller tone. In contrast, the Lime has a nylon top housing that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. With both switches having a nylon bottom housing, they will produce a similar deep and full sound when typing. However, the differences in their top housing materials contribute to distinct sound experiences when letting go of a key. Additionally, the Iceberg's translucent polycarbonate housing is advantageous for those who want to utilize RGB lighting.
In terms of housing materials, the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Lime have some similarities and differences. While both switches have a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing, their top housings are different. The Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This housing is also beneficial for individuals who plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Lime showcases a nylon top housing that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches provide a unique sound experience, with the bottom housing predominantly impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a larger role when it comes to the sound upon releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, there are some similarities as well as differences. Both switches have a bottom out force of 45 grams, indicating a light pressure required for fully pressing the keys. However, the Iceberg switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 37 grams, whereas the Lime switch has a lower actuation force of 35 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Iceberg switch may be more suitable as it requires a lower actuation force. This can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions where fatigue can set in. On the other hand, the Lime switch offers a slightly stronger push feel with its higher actuation force. This can provide a more substantial typing experience for individuals who prefer a bit more resistance.
Overall, both switches offer a relatively light bottom out force, ensuring ease of use. While the actuation force of the switches may vary slightly, these differences may not significantly impact the typing experience. As a result, individuals seeking a similar typing experience in terms of force requirements can consider both the Iceberg and the Lime switches.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch have different travel distances. The Iceberg has a travel distance of 4mm, while the Lime has a shorter travel distance of 3.3mm. The Iceberg's 4mm travel distance is more traditional and provides a deeper key press sensation, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Lime's shorter 3.3mm travel distance is favored by gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation, making it ideal for gaming scenarios where every millisecond counts. Both switches have their advantages depending on individual preferences - the Iceberg for those who enjoy a deeper and more substantial key press, and the Lime for those seeking faster 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 Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40 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 its satisfying smoothness and fulfilling feel. In terms of sound, the Iceberg switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. This means that when pressed, it produces a sharp, crisp, and percussive sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime tactile switch is unique in that it is lightweight, has an approachable tactility, and is silenced. When it comes to sound, the Lime switch is described as neutral and muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches.
In terms of feel, the Iceberg switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle. It offers a super responsive typing experience due to longer or dual-staged springs, making it feel more alive. Additionally, it is exceptionally light to press and requires minimal exertion, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Lime switch, on the other hand, is described as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. It offers a gentle typing experience with a middle-ground zone of characteristics. It is also exceptionally light to press, reducing strain on the fingers, and has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iceberg switch is clacky and high-pitched, providing a sharp and crisp sound, while the Lime switch is neutral and muted, producing a softer and quieter sound. As for feel, the Iceberg switch is snappy, feathery, and subtle, giving a responsive and comfortable typing experience, while the Lime switch is mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, offering a gentle yet refined typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing needs. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can deliver satisfying results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and fulfilling linear switch with a light bottom out force, the Aflion Iceberg is the way to go. Aflion may be a newer manufacturer, but the quality of their switches shines through in the Iceberg. These switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their smoothness and two-stage spring design. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight tactile switch with just a touch of tactility and silence, the Outemu Lime is your best bet. These unique switches offer a feather-light typing experience and are perfect for tactile fans. They are also silenced, minimizing the noise often associated with mechanical keyboards. So whether you prioritize smoothness and linear feel or lightweight tactility and silence, there is a switch option for you. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch comes down to your personal preference and typing needs.
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