Aflion Iceberg vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch to the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, one can see that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Iceberg from Aflion is a standout choice for those looking for a smooth and fulfilling typing experience, thanks to its two-stage spring system. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', it provides a tactile feedback that some users find highly enjoyable. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red by Cherry MX appeals to those in need of a quieter typing experience without compromising on the satisfying feel of a linear switch. Categorized as 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', it is ideal for noise-sensitive environments. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Cherry MX Silent Red is that the Iceberg uses a combination of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, while the MX Silent Red uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Iceberg creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while the nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red produces a deeper and fuller sound profile because of its softness and sound-absorbing properties. In terms of aesthetics, the Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting, while the MX Silent Red's nylon housing is more classic and standard.
In terms of feel and sound, the use of different housing materials for the top and bottom of the switch affects how typing on the switches will be experienced. The Iceberg's nylon bottom housing and polycarbonate top housing split the qualities between the bottom-out sound and the release sound, creating a unique typing experience with a mix of crispness and depth. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red's nylon housing throughout results in a consistent and uniform sound profile that is deeper and fuller overall. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but the differences in housing materials give each switch its own distinct feel and sound.
While the Iceberg and the MX Silent Red have different housing materials, they both offer a quality typing experience with their unique sound profiles. The Iceberg's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing creates a mix of sharpness and depth in sound, while the MX Silent Red's consistent use of nylon results in a deep and full sound profile overall. Both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch, and choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing experience.
Weight
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. The bottom out force for the MX Silent Red is unknown. For those who prefer a light typing experience, the Iceberg switch would be the better choice due to its lower actuation force. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch may be more suitable despite the lack of information on its bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing pressure and the overall typing experience desired.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, the Iceberg has a travel distance of 4 mm while the MX Silent Red has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Iceberg has a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on a key compared to the MX Silent Red. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Iceberg being on the longer side and the MX Silent Red being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the MX Silent Red for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while others may appreciate the more substantial feel of the Iceberg's longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key press 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 Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch provides a muted and thocky sound profile, significantly reducing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The Iceberg switch caters to those who enjoy a sharper sound with bright and percussive tones, while the MX Silent Red switch appeals to individuals looking for a quieter typing experience with deep, rich tones.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is characterized by its snappy and feathery qualities, offering a super responsive typing experience with a light actuation force. This switch is designed to reduce finger fatigue and provide a comfortable typing feel, making it suitable for extended use. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is described as textured, implying noticeable friction when pressed. This unique feature caters to users who prefer a slight texture in their typing experience, offering a different tactile sensation compared to the smoother Iceberg switch.
In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch provide distinct sound and feel qualities to cater to different preferences. The Iceberg switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound with a snappy and feathery feel, ideal for those seeking a responsive and light typing experience with sharp sound feedback. In contrast, the MX Silent Red switch provides a muted and thocky sound profile with a textured feel, perfect for individuals looking for a quieter typing experience with noticeable friction. Ultimately, both switches deliver satisfying typing experiences, but with different characteristics to meet varying user needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and smooth linear switch with a satisfying feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier feel and value a quieter typing experience, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch would be the better option. The Iceberg switch offers a snappy and feathery typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, while the MX Silent Red provides a textured feel with a muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile. Consider the environment in which you will be using your keyboard and choose the switch that best suits your preferences and needs. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so make your decision based on what you prioritize in a keyboard switch.
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