Aflion Iceberg vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch. The Iceberg, known for its smoothness and two-stage spring design, provides a satisfying and fulfilling typing experience with characteristics such as 'clacky', 'high-pitched', and 'snappy'. On the other hand, the Mini i from Gateron offers a more subtle and gentle tactility in each keystroke, maintaining a fairly muted sound profile while still providing satisfying feedback. While the Iceberg is ideal for those who prefer smoothness and responsiveness, the Mini i is perfect for users who prioritize a lightweight and quiet typing experience, especially in office settings. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is often used in switches with clear housings, making it ideal for those looking to incorporate RGB lighting. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. While the Iceberg's top housing emphasizes clarity and resonance in sound, the Mini i's nylon top housing offers a more mellow and well-rounded sound experience.
Both the Iceberg and Mini i feature a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. While the top and bottom housings of the two switches may differ in material, the qualities brought by nylon remain consistent in providing a satisfying typing experience with a deeper sound profile.
In considering the impact of housing materials on the overall sound profile of a switch, it is important to note that the qualities of each housing material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This means that the choice between polycarbonate and nylon for the top and bottom housings can impact the overall typing experience and sound characteristics of a switch. Whether opting for the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Iceberg or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Mini i, users can expect a unique typing experience based on the housing materials chosen for their switch.
Weight
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches on the market. The Iceberg has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience with minimal resistance, making them ideal for those who prefer lighter switches. However, the Iceberg is slightly lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Mini i. For those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Mini i may be the preferred choice due to its slightly heavier forces. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the choice between them 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 Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Iceberg has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying feeling of depth when typing. On the other hand, the Mini i's shorter travel distance could appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Mini i being on the shallower end. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference when it comes to 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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience, producing sharp and crisp sounds that are bright and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement that caters to a wide range of users and environments. Both switches have their own unique sound characteristics, with the Iceberg being more sharp and vibrant while the Mini i offers a more balanced and subtle typing noise.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is described as snappy and feathery, with a satisfyingly smooth typing experience due to its two-stage spring design. The Gateron Mini i tactile switch, on the other hand, offers a bouncy and easy-to-press sensation, providing a light and responsive typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Iceberg leaning towards a more responsive and lively feel, while the Mini i focuses on providing a gentle and low-impact typing experience.
Overall, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iceberg switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a snappy and feathery feel, catering to users who prefer a more vibrant typing experience. On the other hand, the Mini i switch offers a neutral sound profile and a bouncy, easy-to-press feel, ideal for users seeking a more subtle and comfortable typing sensation. Both switches have their own strengths and are suitable for different preferences and environments, ensuring that regardless of choice, users will enjoy a quality typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider the following guidelines based on their characteristics. If you prefer a light bottom out force and a smooth typing experience, the Iceberg may be the right choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a snappier feel and a clacky sound profile, the Iceberg could enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a gentle tactility and a muted sound profile for a quiet office environment, the Gateron Mini i switch might suit your needs better. Its light actuation force and bouncy, easy-to-press feel make it ideal for long hours of comfortable typing without causing fatigue. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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