Aflion Iceberg vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Iceberg and Haimu Neo White are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, offering a smooth and satisfying typing experience. The Iceberg, from relatively new switch manufacturer Aflion, is praised for its smoothness and two-stage spring, providing a fulfilling feel during use. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Iceberg offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White stands out with its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, thanks to the rare use of a Ly stem which contributes to a remarkably smooth actuation. Categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral', the Neo White offers a distinct typing feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Iceberg and the Haimu Neo White both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a clear and resonant sound, particularly beneficial for switches with RGB lighting. This material brings a certain level of transparency that enhances the overall aesthetic of the switches. The similarities in the top housing material ensure that users can expect similar sound characteristics and visual appeal from both switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Iceberg and the Neo White feature nylon material. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound from polycarbonate. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches provides a different tactile experience when pressing down on the keys, enhancing the overall typing experience.
While both switches share similar characteristics in terms of the housing materials used, the distribution of these materials will impact the overall typing experience differently. The qualities brought by the nylon bottom housing will be felt more during the act of pressing down on the keys, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key, offering a unique sound profile that complements the typing experience. Despite their differences, both the Iceberg and the Neo White offer a well-rounded typing experience with a combination of sharp, crisp sounds from polycarbonate and deep, full sounds from nylon.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it is evident that the Iceberg is lighter while the Neo White is heavier. The Iceberg requires 37 grams of force to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, providing a light typing experience. In contrast, the Neo White's actuation force is unknown, but it requires 58 grams to bottom out, offering a more substantial typing feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use, the Iceberg would be the ideal choice. However, for individuals who enjoy a more robust typing experience with a heavier push feel, the Neo White would be a suitable option. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Iceberg has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Neo White, making it better suited for those who prefer a more traditional depth when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Neo White offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of common travel distances, with the Iceberg being on the longer end and the Neo White slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for key travel depth.
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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 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 is known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, which is moderate and suitable for various purposes. Both switches offer different sound profiles, catering to individuals with varying preferences. The choice of keycaps and keyboard build will further influence the sound produced by these switches.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is noted for its snappy and feathery qualities, providing a responsive and light typing experience. The subtle resistance of the switch also makes it suitable for shared spaces where noise may be a concern. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White linear switch offers a mild typing experience, leaning towards a gentle feel that caters to a wide range of users. Both switches provide unique tactile feedback, allowing users to choose based on their preference for typing feel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Iceberg switch provides a clacky, high-pitched sound and a snappy, feathery feel, the Neo White switch offers a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience. Choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying and smooth typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of overall performance and quality.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Iceberg if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a smooth typing experience with a two-stage spring, and enjoy a clacky or high-pitched sound profile. The Iceberg is also ideal for those who enjoy snappy or feathery switches that are light to press. On the other hand, opt for the Neo White if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a distinctive typing feel with reduced total travel, and a neutral sound profile. The Neo White is suitable for those who prefer a mild typing experience that falls in the middle-ground zone. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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