Aflion Iceberg vs. PH Studio Milk Tea

Overview

When comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch to the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, one can see that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Iceberg switch by Aflion is representative of the brand's commitment to producing high-quality switches, with a smooth profile and a satisfying two-stage spring mechanism. Known for its 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle' characteristics, the Iceberg switch is ideal for those seeking a responsive and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch by PH Studio offers a distinctive auditory blend with a high-pitched yet muted sound, providing a balanced presence that is both noticeable and subtle. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Resonant', the Milk Tea switch's 43.5g bottom-out and use of Ly stem material make it perfect for extended typing sessions. 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

PH Studio Milk Tea Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$4.50

$4.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the PH Studio Milk Tea differ in their top and bottom components. The Iceberg uses a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially when used with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Milk Tea utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials contribute to distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate offers a brighter tone compared to the POM's darker sound.

In terms of bottom housing, the Iceberg features a nylon material that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. Similarly, the Milk Tea uses a POM bottom housing, offering a unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. Both bottom housings contribute to enhancing the overall sound profile of the switches, with nylon offering a fuller sound compared to POM's quieter tone.

While the top and bottom housings of the switches differ between the Iceberg and the Milk Tea, the qualities of each material impact the overall typing experience. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, with the softer nylon creating a more impactful sound compared to POM. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key is influenced by the top housing material, with polycarbonate providing a sharper sound profile while POM delivers a deeper, more muted tone. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to individual preferences.

Weight

In comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, both switches have similar actuation forces, with the Iceberg requiring 37 grams and the Milk Tea requiring 37.5 grams. However, the Iceberg has a slightly higher bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the Milk Tea's 43.5 grams. Both switches fall into the lighter weight category, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. The actuation force of a switch is crucial for triggering a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure needed to press the key all the way down. Ultimately, the choice between the Iceberg and Milk Tea switches will depend on whether a user prefers a slightly lighter or heavier typing feel for their keyboard experience.

Travel distance

The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Iceberg has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Milk Tea. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Iceberg is more traditional, offering a deeper feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the 3.6mm travel distance of the Milk Tea is slightly shallower, providing a quicker response time which is preferred by gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference - whether you prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response or a longer travel distance for a more substantial feel. Both switches offer a good balance between depth and responsiveness, ensuring that you will get similar results regardless of which one you choose.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique blend of clacky, high-pitched, marbly, and resonant characteristics, delivering a sound that strikes a balance between sharpness and subtlety. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound, so choosing between them would depend on whether you prefer a more pronounced or muted typing experience.

In terms of feel, the Iceberg switch is known for its snappy and feathery qualities, offering a responsive typing experience with minimal finger exertion. It also has a subtle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces. Alternatively, the Milk Tea switch boasts polished and silky attributes, providing a smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction and enhanced overall smoothness. Depending on whether you prioritize responsiveness or smoothness in your typing experience, you can choose between the Iceberg and Milk Tea switches accordingly.

In conclusion, the Iceberg linear switch from Aflion and the Milk Tea linear switch from PH Studio offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iceberg switch leans towards a crisper and more responsive typing experience, while the Milk Tea switch provides a smoother and more refined feel. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences and typing needs, so choosing between them would depend on your personal preferences in sound and feel. If you prioritize certain qualities over others, selecting the switch that aligns with your preferences will ensure a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

Ultimately, when deciding between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth and snappy feel with a light actuation force, the Iceberg switch may be more suited to your taste. On the other hand, if you value a switch with a polished and silky typing experience that minimizes resistance, the Milk Tea switch could be the better choice for you. Additionally, if you prefer a high-pitched and clean sound profile, the Milk Tea switch may be more appealing, while the Iceberg switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what aspects of typing experience and sound profile are most important to you before making a decision.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

PH Studio Milk Tea Linear

$4.50

$4.00 per 10

Learn more