Aflion Iceberg vs. Gateron Luciola

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Luciola. Aflion, although a relatively new switch manufacturer, has gained recognition for their exceptional quality, and the Iceberg switches are a testament to this. These linear switches boast a satisfying smoothness and an unparalleled feel, thanks to their two-stage spring. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Iceberg switches offer a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola switches are known for their eye-catching feature of glowing in the dark. These linear switches provide a medium heft, ensuring a smooth and bouncy typing feel. Additionally, their sound profile gives off a distinctive hollow "can of spray paint being shaken" effect. Categorized as 'Snappy', 'Clacky', 'Chirpy', 'Marbly', 'Buttery', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', the Luciola switches offer a diverse range of characteristics. 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

Aflion Iceberg Linear

Gateron Luciola Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Luciola have distinct characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles. The Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that resonates more clearly. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting. In contrast, the Luciola utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, offering a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound without being overly sharp. This thin and clacky sound is often described as satisfying. While both switches have different materials for their top housing, they provide similar results in terms of producing a distinctive sound profile.

When it comes to the bottom housing, the Aflion Iceberg employs a nylon material. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Gateron Luciola utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing. Similar to its top housing, this material contributes to a pointed and high-pitched sound, characterized as clacky. Despite their different bottom housing materials, both switches exhibit qualities that enhance their sound profiles.

It is important to note that the qualities brought by the top and bottom housings of a switch will impact different aspects of typing experience. Pressing down on a switch will predominantly transmit the qualities of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound that is produced when releasing a key. Therefore, understanding the materials used in both the top and bottom housings of the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Luciola sheds light on the distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences that each switch offers.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, one noticeable difference is the actuation force and bottom out force. The Iceberg has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, meaning it only requires a gentle touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Luciola has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial push feel when typing. Similarly, the Iceberg has a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Luciola has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. Therefore, those who prefer a lighter typing experience and extended periods of typing may opt for the Iceberg, while those seeking a more solid and substantial typing feel might lean towards the Luciola. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, it is evident that the Iceberg has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Luciola's 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Iceberg being on the longer side and the Luciola on the shorter side. Gamers usually prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times, making the Luciola a favorable choice for them. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may prefer the Iceberg with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - opting for a more responsive feel with the shorter Luciola or a more satisfying depth with the longer Iceberg. Regardless of the choice made, both switches will provide a similar experience in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Iceberg linear switch by Aflion is known for its satisfying smoothness and fulfilling feel. Unfortunately, the available information does not specify the exact sound profile of the Iceberg switch. However, based on the description of a clacky switch, it is likely that the Iceberg switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, similar to other clacky switches.

On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is described as having a medium heft and a smooth and bouncy typing feel. It also has a unique sound profile, including a chirpy sound and a marbly sound, which sets it apart from other switches. The chirpy sound adds a little squeak to the typing experience, while the marbly sound is resonant, high-pitched, and clean.

In conclusion, the Iceberg linear switch by Aflion and the Gateron Luciola linear switch have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iceberg switch is characterized by its smoothness and two-stage spring, while the Luciola switch has a medium heft and a bouncy typing feel. The Iceberg's sound profile is unknown, but based on the description of a clacky switch, it may have a crisp and bright sound. The Luciola switch, on the other hand, has a unique sound profile with chirpy and marbly characteristics. Both switches offer their own benefits and can provide a satisfying typing experience, but the Luciola switch may provide a more distinctive and varied sound profile.

Conclusion

In summary, if you prioritize a lighter bottom out force and a fulfilling feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is a great choice for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is considered light and ideal for reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Iceberg switches are known for their satisfying smoothness and two-stage spring, which adds to the overall typing experience. In terms of sound, the Iceberg switches are described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a crisp and bright sound when pressed.

On the other hand, if you are looking for eye-catching switches that glow in the dark and provide a medium typing feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch would be a fitting option. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, these switches offer a slightly higher heft compared to the Iceberg switches. The Luciola switches are praised for their smooth and bouncy typing feel, as well as a unique hollow sound profile that can be likened to the sound of a can of spray paint being shaken. In terms of sound, the Luciola switches are described as clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched, offering a range of options to suit your auditory preferences.

Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch depends on your desired bottom out force, typing feel, and preferred sound profile. Consider the factors that are most important to you and select the switch that aligns with your preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more