Aflion Iceberg vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Melodic stand out as top contenders in their respective categories. The Iceberg, a linear switch from Aflion, offers a smooth and fulfilling typing experience thanks to its two-stage spring design. Known for its clacky and high-pitched sound, as well as its snappy and subtle feel, the Iceberg is a great choice for those who prefer a more straightforward typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch from Gateron, brings a new level of innovation to the clicky switch category. With features like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, the Melodic delivers a buttery and resonant typing experience that is both invigorating and crunchy. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Both the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Melodic feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This makes them great choices for switches that prioritize sound quality and clarity. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through beautifully. So, in terms of top housing material, both the Iceberg and the Melodic offer similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Iceberg and the Melodic differ slightly. The Iceberg features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Melodic also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering similar qualities in terms of sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches creates a more rounded and duller sound, contributing to a more satisfying typing experience.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Melodic are the same, their bottom housing materials differ slightly. Both switches offer a unique typing experience due to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their housing materials. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile with the Iceberg or a deeper, fuller sound with the Melodic, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience with their carefully chosen materials.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is evident that the Iceberg is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Melodic is the heavier option with a bottom out force of 60 grams (actuation force information not available). The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Iceberg make it a more effortless and smoother typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Melodic provides a more substantial and satisfying typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a bit more resistance and feedback when pressing the keys. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference, with the Iceberg offering a lighter touch and the Melodic offering a heavier feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when typing on keyboards equipped with either of these switches. The travel distance of a switch is crucial as it directly impacts the typing feel and feedback. With both the Iceberg and the Melodic having the same travel distance, users can expect consistent performance in terms of keystroke actuation and overall typing experience. Whether you choose the Iceberg or the Melodic, you can be assured of a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a travel distance of 4 mm.
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 Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is best described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, offering a clean and sharp auditory experience with a unique texture reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. Depending on personal preference, users may prefer the bright and percussive sound of the Iceberg or the immersive, crisp sound of the Melodic.
When it comes to feel, the Iceberg switch is characterized as snappy, feathery, and subtle. The longer or dual-staged springs in the Iceberg provide a responsive typing experience with gentle resistance that is comfortable for extended use, whether it be for gaming, school, or work. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switch offers a buttery and invigorating feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force for an immersive typing sensation. Depending on typing style and preferences, users may prefer the light and responsive feel of the Iceberg or the smooth and uniform feel of the Melodic.
In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. The Iceberg provides a clacky, high-pitched sound with a snappy and feathery feel, while the Melodic offers a resonant, crunchy sound with a buttery and invigorating feel. Both switches excel in their own right and promise a satisfying typing experience based on individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize sound aesthetics or typing feel in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smooth and light typing experience with a satisfying feel, the Iceberg switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback while still prioritizing smoothness in your typing, the Gateron Melodic switch could be more suitable. Consider factors such as bottom-out force, sound profile (from clacky and high-pitched to resonant and crunchy), and typing feel (from snappy and feathery to buttery and invigorating) to make an informed decision based on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best fits your typing needs.
Mentioned in this article
