Aflion Iceberg vs. KTT Mint

Overview

If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may want to consider the Aflion Iceberg and the KTT Mint. Both of these switches are linear, providing a smooth typing experience. The Iceberg, produced by relatively new switch manufacturer Aflion, is known for its satisfying smoothness and fulfilling feel, thanks to its two-stage spring. On the other hand, the Mint offers a different typing experience with its long pole stem, resulting in a poppy thockiness. Additionally, the Mint provides a light and fleeting type feel. In terms of sound, the Iceberg is categorized as clacky, high-pitched, snappy, feathery, and subtle, while the Mint is described as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Iceberg Linear

KTT Mint Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$2.91 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Aflion Iceberg and the KTT Mint utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice if RGB lighting is part of your setup. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for a visually striking appearance when combined with lighting effects. Therefore, users of both the Iceberg and the Mint can expect similar sound qualities and visual effects due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.

In terms of bottom housing, the Iceberg and the Mint both employ nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its relatively softer composition that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This characteristic of nylon results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with this material. Both the Iceberg and the Mint benefit from these acoustic properties, as the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. So, whether you choose the Iceberg or the Mint, you can expect a similar typing experience and sound when it comes to the bottom housing.

Considering the difference in top and bottom housings for both switches, it is important to note that the qualities of each housing material are distributed accordingly. The bottom housing has a more pronounced impact on the overall sound and feel during key presses, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, users of either the Iceberg or the Mint can appreciate the harmonious combination of polycarbonate and nylon, as each material contributes distinct characteristics to the typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, it is evident that there are some differences. The Iceberg switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, meaning that less pressure is needed to trigger a keystroke compared to the Mint switch's 45 grams. Similarly, the Iceberg has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the Mint's 53 grams. This indicates that the Iceberg switch provides a lighter and potentially more effortless typing experience overall. However, it is worth noting that both switches fall within the lighter force range. Therefore, if someone prefers a lighter feel, they can achieve similar results with either switch. Ultimately, the preference between the Iceberg and the Mint will depend on the individual's desired typing experience - whether they prioritize a lighter touch or a slightly more substantial feel.

Travel distance

The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent 4 mm of travel distance. Both switches provide a similar tactile feedback and response due to their identical travel distances. Therefore, whether you choose the Iceberg or the Mint, you can expect to get similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. This means that when pressed, it produces a sharp and crisp sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch is described as low-pitched and neutral. This means that it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches, and it has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.

In terms of feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle. This means that it is super responsive due to its longer or dual-staged springs, providing a typing experience that feels more alive. It is also exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, it has a gentle resistance and a sound signature that is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch is described as mild and polished. This means that it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, and it has a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Overall, both the Aflion Iceberg and KTT Mint linear switches offer satisfying smoothness and fulfilling feel. While the Iceberg has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Mint has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. Similarly, the Iceberg has a snappy, feathery, and subtle feel, while the Mint has a mild and polished feel. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a great typing experience. It is recommended to consider additional factors such as the choice of board and keycaps to further customize the sound profile.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a lighter switch with a smooth and fulfilling feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, it offers a feathery and snappy typing experience, perfect for extended gaming, school, or work sessions. The Iceberg switch is also known for its clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile when pressed.

On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a poppy thockiness, the KTT Mint linear switch would be more suitable for you. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it offers a mild and polished typing experience, making it approachable to most users. The Mint switch is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.

Ultimately, your choice between the Aflion Iceberg and KTT Mint switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics, so consider what you value most in a switch and make your decision accordingly. In the end, the most important thing is to choose a switch that enhances your typing experience and brings you joy.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

KTT Mint Linear

$2.91 per 10

Learn more