Aflion Iceberg vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Iceberg and the KTT Miaowu mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Aflion Iceberg, known for its smoothness and two-stage spring, provides a satisfying and fulfilling typing experience. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Iceberg switch is ideal for those who appreciate a diverse range of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu boasts enhanced stem stability and a smoother keystroke action with its POK stem, setting it apart from other switches with conventional POM stems. Categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', the Miaowu switch offers a more pronounced and responsive typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best choice for your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the KTT Miaowu, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiff nature. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it an ideal choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. The similarity in their top housing material suggests that users can expect a comparable sound experience when typing on either switch.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Iceberg is made of nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Miaowu also features a nylon bottom housing, highlighting the classic choice of material for switch housings. This shared characteristic between the two switches may lead to a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Despite the similarities in housing materials between the Aflion Iceberg and the KTT Miaowu, the distribution of these materials in the switches can lead to differences in sound profile. The bottom housing, being made of nylon, will significantly impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing, consisting of polycarbonate, will have a greater influence on the sound produced when keys are released. This distinction showcases how the combination of different housing materials can affect the overall typing experience offered by each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is evident that the Iceberg requires a lighter touch compared to the Miaowu. The Iceberg has an actuation force of 37 grams, while the Miaowu has an actuation force of 43 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Iceberg requires 45 grams, whereas the Miaowu needs 50 grams. Both switches can be considered light in comparison to other switches on the market, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Typists who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Iceberg, while those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel might opt for the Miaowu for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Iceberg offers a more traditional travel distance, which may be preferred for those who enjoy a deeper key press sensation. On the other hand, the Miaowu provides a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. Both options have their benefits depending on personal preference, with the Iceberg offering a more substantial key press and the Miaowu delivering a faster response. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key feel and 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 KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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
When it comes to sound, both the Aflion Iceberg and KTT Miaowu switches are described as having a clacky sound profile. This means that both switches produce a sharp, snappy sound when pressed, resulting in a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience. Depending on the keycaps and keyboard used, the sound of these switches may vary slightly, but overall, users can expect a similar clacky sound from both switches.
In terms of feel, the Iceberg switch offers a combination of snappy and feathery sensations, providing a responsive typing experience with a light actuation force. On the other hand, the Miaowu switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback and lively feel. While the Iceberg switch focuses on responsiveness and lightness, the Miaowu switch emphasizes a rebound effect when keys are pressed.
Overall, both the Aflion Iceberg and KTT Miaowu linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iceberg switch provides a smooth and fulfilling typing experience with a clacky sound and a mix of snappy and feathery sensations, while the Miaowu switch leverages enhanced stem stability, providing a bouncy feel and a similar clacky sound. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, consider the following guidelines: opt for the Iceberg if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a smooth two-stage spring for a fulfilling typing experience. Additionally, if you appreciate a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Iceberg may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, choose the Miaowu if you value enhanced stem stability and smoother keystrokes, along with the unique POK stem material. If you prefer a bouncy feel and a clacky sound, the Miaowu could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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