Aflion Iceberg vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Iceberg and the Cherry MX Black are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique qualities for different preferences. The Iceberg, manufactured by Aflion, may be a relatively new player in the switch market, but they have quickly gained recognition for their exceptional quality. The Iceberg switches are praised for their smoothness and satisfying feel, thanks to their two-stage spring design. Categorized as "clacky", "high-pitched", "snappy", "feathery", and "subtle", these switches offer a range of sensations that can suit various typing styles. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switches, further refined by Cherry, boast a classic textured smoothness that is enhanced by the company's new Hyperglide tooling. Typing on these switches produces a deep sound profile that is familiar to many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Categorized as "low-pitched", "textured", and "stiff", the MX Black switches provide a distinctly different typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Cherry MX Black switches offer distinct differences in sound profile and aesthetics. The Iceberg utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that produces a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the MX Black features a nylon top housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Iceberg and the MX Black switches utilize nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, the bottom housings of both switches contribute to a similar sound experience, producing a duller and rounder sound when typing.
However, it is important to note that the difference in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch affects the overall sound profile. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are more pronounced, influencing the impact and bottom-out sound. Conversely, the top housing has more influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. This means that the Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing will offer a combination of a sharper initial sound and a deeper, fuller sound upon key release. Similarly, the MX Black's nylon top housing and bottom housing will deliver a deeper, fuller sound both when pressing down on a key and when releasing it.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch to the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Iceberg switch has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, meaning it requires a gentle touch to trigger a keystroke. In comparison, the MX Black switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 60 grams, providing a stronger push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Iceberg switch is 45 grams, while the MX Black switch requires an even heavier force of 80 grams to fully bottom out. These differences in force can greatly impact typing comfort and responsiveness. For individuals who prefer a lighter switch, the Iceberg would be an ideal choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, for those who enjoy a more tactile and forceful typing experience, the MX Black switch would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the Iceberg and the MX Black switch will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Cherry MX Black 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 feel the same 4 mm of travel distance. Both switches offer a consistent and smooth linear experience with a moderate travel distance.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, with a crisp, bright, and percussive quality. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile. It offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Iceberg switch is known for being snappy, feathery, and subtle. It is super responsive due to its longer or dual-staged springs, providing a more lively typing experience. It is exceptionally light to press, requiring little exertion from the fingers and reducing finger fatigue. Additionally, it has a gentle resistance that maintains a light typing feel and a non-resonant sound signature, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch is described as textured and stiff. It has noticeable friction when pressed, which can be preferred by some users, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. It also requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, meaning users will need to apply more force when pressing the keys.
Based on the available information, it can be concluded that the Aflion Iceberg and Cherry MX Black switches have distinctive subjective qualities. The Iceberg switch offers a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel due to its two-stage spring, making it suitable for those who prefer a snappy and lightweight typing experience. Its sound profile is clacky and high-pitched, providing a crisp and bright sound when pressed. On the other hand, the MX Black switch from Cherry further refines the iconic MX Black switches, offering a classic textured smoothness and a low-pitched sound profile. While they have different characteristics, both switches excel in their respective qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the choice between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the Iceberg with its 45-gram force would be the better option for you. It offers a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel due to its two-stage spring. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force, the MX Black with its 80-gram force would be the more suitable choice. It provides a classic textured smoothness and a familiar deep sound profile when typing.
In terms of sound, the Iceberg is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound. If you enjoy a crisp, bright, and percussive sound, the Iceberg is the way to go. On the other hand, the MX Black is described as low-pitched, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. If you prefer a richer and bassier sound profile, the MX Black would be the better fit.
When it comes to feel, the Iceberg offers a snappy, feathery, and subtle experience. It is super responsive, light to press, and has a gentle resistance. This makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions and suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the MX Black is textured and stiff. It features noticeable friction when pressed and requires more force to actuate and bottom out. If you prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience or if you have a preference for a higher amount of force, the MX Black would be the more appropriate choice.
Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch depends on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. Consider what feels most comfortable and responsive to you, and choose accordingly. Both switches have their own unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
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