Aflion Iceberg vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Iceberg and the SP-Star Meteor Orange offer two distinct experiences. As a relatively new switch manufacturer, Aflion has made a name for itself with the Iceberg switches, showcasing the quality they bring to their products. With a smooth and satisfying feel, thanks to its two-stage spring, the Iceberg is a linear switch that falls under categories such as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle'. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switches, produced by SP-Star, offer a completely different experience. With their gentle tactility and subtle sound profile, these switches categorize as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. Now, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Iceberg Linear

SP-Star Meteor Orange Tactile

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$5.50

$5.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the SP-Star Meteor Orange differ in their composition, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Iceberg utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and clear resonant sound. This material lends itself well to RGB lighting and creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange employs a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs more sound. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, giving the typing experience a more rounded tone. While both materials have their advantages, the polycarbonate of the Iceberg emphasizes clarity and brightness, while the nylon of the Meteor Orange focuses on depth and richness.

In terms of the bottom housing, both the Iceberg and the Meteor Orange utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, when pressing down on either switch, the nylon bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and overall feel. Despite using the same material, it is worth noting that the design and construction of the bottom housing may still contribute to subtle differences in the switch's performance.

It is essential to recognize that the top and bottom housings of a switch serve different functions and therefore have different impacts on the sound. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the Iceberg produces a sharp and crisp sound when keys are released, while the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange creates a deeper and fuller sound in the same scenario. Although these materials differ, both enhance the overall sound experience by providing distinct qualities to the switch's functionality.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Iceberg has an actuation force of 37 grams, while the actuation force of the Meteor Orange is unknown. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Iceberg requires 45 grams, whereas the Meteor Orange requires 57 grams. This makes the Iceberg lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Meteor Orange.

Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for longer periods without fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. These individuals may find the Iceberg switch to be more suitable due to its lighter actuation and bottom out force. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals might lean towards options with heavier forces, making the Meteor Orange switch a potential choice for them.

In terms of actuation force, the Iceberg is explicitly stated as light at 37 grams. Since the actuation force of the Meteor Orange is not provided, it is difficult to compare directly. However, based on the known bottom out force, the Meteor Orange switch can be considered medium-light.

In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch. However, it is important to note that while the bottom out force of the Meteor Orange is heavier, its actuation force remains unknown.

Travel distance

The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, both switches will travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. With this similarity in travel distance, users can expect a similar tactile and typing experience when using either switch. Whether it's the Iceberg or the Meteor Orange, the 4 mm travel distance ensures a consistent and satisfying click when pressing down on the keys.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Aflion Iceberg linear switch is known for its satisfying smoothness and fulfilling feel. It has a two-stage spring, which adds to the overall typing experience. In terms of sound, the Iceberg switch has been described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This can be appealing to those who prefer a crisp and bright sound profile.

On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is known for its exquisite gentleness. It offers a soft and seductive tactility, providing a different typing experience compared to linear switches like the Iceberg. In terms of sound, the Meteor Orange is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes. It is not overly rich or bassy, appealing to those who prefer a more moderate sound.

When it comes to feel, the Iceberg switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle. The snappy nature of the switch makes it super responsive, enhancing the typing experience. It also has a light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Meteor Orange switch, on the other hand, is described as mild and polished. It offers a more gentle typing experience and has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction.

Overall, the Iceberg linear switch and the Meteor Orange tactile switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iceberg switch provides a satisfyingly smooth and fulfilling feel with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch offers a soft and seductive tactility with a neutral sound profile. While they provide different experiences, both switches can deliver enjoyable typing experiences based on individual preferences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you are looking for a light and smooth linear switch, the Aflion Iceberg is the way to go. With its bottom out force of 45 grams, it offers a satisfyingly smooth typing experience. The Iceberg switch also features a two-stage spring, adding an extra layer of fulfillment to your typing. Additionally, if you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Iceberg switch delivers on both fronts.

On the other hand, if you desire a more gentle and tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 57 grams, it falls into the medium-light category and offers a soft and seductive tactility. The Meteor Orange switch also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments. If you appreciate a thocky sound and a polished, refined finish, the Meteor Orange switch will not disappoint.

Ultimately, the decision between the Iceberg and the Meteor Orange switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a light and smooth linear switch with a clacky and high-pitched sound, go for the Iceberg. However, if you prefer a more gentle and tactile typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a thocky sound, the Meteor Orange is the way to go. Consider your desired typing feel and sound preference to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Meteor Orange Tactile

$5.50

$5.00 per 10

Learn more