Aflion Iceberg vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade

Overview

When selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two notable contenders emerge: the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch. The Iceberg, produced by the relatively new but promising Aflion brand, is celebrated for its smooth operation and tactile satisfaction, thanks to a unique two-stage spring design that enhances the typing experience. Users appreciate its clacky, high-pitched, and snappy sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback during their typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches shine with their bright and clacky acoustics, particularly ideal for enthusiasts seeking an upgrade for their Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. The Magnetic Jade is recognized for delivering superior typing sensations combined with enhanced sound quality, appealing to those who prioritize acoustics in their setup. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Iceberg Linear

Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$8.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The Aflion Iceberg and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches share a striking similarity in their top housing material, both utilizing polycarbonate. This choice of material significantly influences the sound profile of each switch, delivering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. Polycarbonate’s rigidity enhances resonance, giving users a clearer tone that is particularly appealing in environments where sound clarity matters. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it an excellent option for those who want to enjoy RGB lighting effects, as it allows for light to pass through, thus creating an aesthetically pleasing glow when illuminated. Therefore, users of both switches can expect a similar acoustic effect thanks to the identical top housing material.

When examining the bottom housings of the Iceberg and Magnetic Jade, both switches feature nylon, a well-respected choice in the mechanical keyboard community. Nylon's inherent characteristics mean that switches using this material produce a deeper, fuller sound profile, largely by absorbing more sound than harder materials like polycarbonate. This absorption results in a sound that is noticeably duller and rounder, contributing to a more subdued bottom-out feel when typing. These qualities create a contrast between the upper and lower housing sound characteristics, offering a rich auditory experience that is appreciated by many users, whether they're gaming or typing for extended periods.

Combining the properties of both the top and bottom housings results in a unique and multifaceted sound experience in both switch types. The polycarbonate top housing contributes to the sharper, crisper auditory output during key release, while the nylon bottom housing provides a fuller sound profile upon key press. This means that even though the Iceberg and Magnetic Jade switches utilize different materials for their bottom housings, users can still achieve a balanced sound experience reflective of each material's strengths. Together, the combination of these materials allows for a nuanced feel and sound that appeals across a variety of keyboard enthusiasts, maintaining both character and versatility in their respective designs.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, there are clear differences in both their actuation and bottom out forces. The Iceberg features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch, which can enhance typing comfort during extended use. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade has a slightly lighter actuation force at 30 grams but has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This suggests that while its initial keystroke may require less force, bottoming out provides a more pronounced tactile sensation. Consequently, users looking for a lighter keyboard experience would likely gravitate towards the Iceberg, while those who appreciate a stronger push feel during bottoming out might prefer the Magnetic Jade. Overall, the Iceberg is the lighter option, whereas the Magnetic Jade leans towards being heavier, especially when considering the bottom out force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, we find that the Iceberg has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Magnetic Jade measures 3.5 mm. This indicates that the Iceberg offers a longer travel distance, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on keys. Meanwhile, the Magnetic Jade’s shorter 3.5 mm travel distance may be favored by gamers and those seeking quicker response times. The distinct differences in travel distance cater to varying preferences; while the Iceberg is ideal for those who enjoy a more traditional feel, the Magnetic Jade might be preferred by users looking for a snappier keystroke experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch produces a bright and clacky tone characterized by a sharp, percussive quality that appeals to users who enjoy a crisp auditory feedback during typing. The high-pitched nature of the sound makes it notably suitable for environments where a more subdued audio profile may be less desirable, especially if one prefers to avoid the deeper, richer tones associated with other switch types. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch is celebrated for its bright and clacky sound, touted as perfect for enhancing the acoustic experience on devices like the Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. While both switches strive for a lively audio presence, external factors such as the keyboard's build and choice of keycaps will further influence sound perception, meaning users can expect somewhat similar results in terms of auditory feedback.

In terms of feel, the Iceberg switch is highly regarded for its snappiness, characterized by an exceptionally responsive typing experience aided by a dual-stage spring mechanism. This results in a lively tactile engagement that many typists find rewarding. Additionally, the Iceberg's feathery feel means it requires little exertion, minimizing finger fatigue and making extended typing sessions more comfortable. The subtle resistance provides gentle feedback without overwhelming the user, making it a great choice for shared workspaces. Unfortunately, the feel characteristics of the Gateron Magnetic Jade are less documented, which leaves a gap in comparative analysis. Users interested in the Magnetic Jade should consider that the specific tactile feedback may vary, but it may not replicate the nuanced sensations offered by the Iceberg.

Overall, both the Aflion Iceberg and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Iceberg provides a well-rounded performance with a focus on snappy responsiveness and a crisp sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of typing scenarios. Meanwhile, the Magnetic Jade arrives with a specific emphasis on bright acoustics, particularly advantageous for certain keyboard configurations. While they share a commitment to delivering an engaging typing experience, the lack of detailed feel descriptions for the Magnetic Jade leaves some uncertainty. However, both switches can be expected to provide satisfaction in their own right, depending on user preferences and requirements.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and what you prioritize in your keyboard experience. If you value a lighter actuation force and an exceptionally smooth typing feel, the Iceberg switch is an excellent option. Its 45 grams bottom-out force makes it particularly suitable for long typing sessions, whether for gaming or significant workloads, reducing finger fatigue thanks to its feathery and snappy responsiveness. The clacky, high-pitched sound profile enhances the overall tactile feedback, which can be appealing if you enjoy auditory stimulation when typing.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that provides a more robust tactile experience and a satisfying weightier feel, the Magnetic Jade switch is an ideal choice. Its medium-light 55 grams bottom-out force strikes a balance that might appeal to those seeking something firmer yet still comfortable for extended use. This switch excels in providing superior acoustics, making it great for those who appreciate the vibrant and clacky sound it produces. Additionally, the Magnetic Jade is particularly well-suited if you're upgrading to a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard and want that top-tier typing experience. Ultimately, whether you prefer the smoothness and lightweight feel of the Iceberg or the tactile heft and acoustic richness of the Magnetic Jade, both switches offer unique advantages to enhance the way you interact with your keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect

$8.00 per 10

Learn more