Aflion Iceberg vs. Gateron New North Pole V2

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron New North Pole V2. The Iceberg, produced by Aflion, showcases the quality that this relatively new switch manufacturer is known for. With a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel attributed to its two-stage spring, the Iceberg switch is a great choice. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 from Gateron is renowned for its crisper typing experience as it no longer has a rubber dampener. However, it still maintains the signature frictionless typing feel that the North Pole lineup is known for. Gateron has managed to retain the seamless glide and smoothness that users adore. While these general descriptions give you an idea of what to expect from these switches, let's delve deeper into their individual characteristics and features, so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Aflion Iceberg Linear

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron New North Pole V2 both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it a desirable option for those who want to showcase their keyboard's lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and lighting experiences from both the Iceberg and the New North Pole V2, thanks to their shared polycarbonate top housing.

However, the key difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Iceberg utilizes nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 opts for polycarbonate for its bottom housing. This choice leads to a sharper and more resonant sound profile, consistent with the qualities of the polycarbonate top housing. This difference in bottom housing material will impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the key.

Overall, while the top housing materials of the Iceberg and the New North Pole V2 are the same, their bottom housing materials differ, influencing the sound produced by each switch. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the Iceberg's nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound or the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing for a sharper and crisper sound. Whichever option is chosen, it is evident that the housing materials play a significant role in determining the overall sound profile of the switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences. The Iceberg switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. This means that those who prefer a lighter feel and value extended typing sessions may find the Iceberg switch more suitable for their needs. On the other hand, the Iceberg switch has a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the New North Pole V2 switch has a heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This indicates that the New North Pole V2 switch offers a more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the Iceberg switch is lighter both in terms of actuation and bottom out force, making it ideal for those seeking a lighter typing experience, while the New North Pole V2 switch provides a slightly heavier and more impactful keystroke.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent 4 mm of travel distance. Therefore, whether you choose the Iceberg or the New North Pole V2, you can expect 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 best described as clacky and high-pitched. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch are unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

Moving on to the feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offers a snappy and feathery typing experience. These switches are exceptionally light to press, requiring little exertion from your fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes them comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Iceberg switches have a subtle resistance, providing a gentle typing feel without being too light or too heavy. Furthermore, their sound signature is not resonant, making them suitable for shared spaces.

On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch provides a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. These switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in sleek key travel with reduced friction. Additionally, the factory lube or specific materials used in these switches contribute to a smooth and buttery typing sensation. By gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, each keystroke feels silky and melts into the switch. Moreover, the New North Pole V2 switches offer an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction.

In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg and Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches offer different subjective qualities. The Iceberg switches are known for their satisfying smoothness, snappy feel, and subtle resistance, providing a feathery and clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switches offer a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience, characterized by smooth key travel, a buttery sensation, and a lack of resistance. Each switch has its own unique features, appealing to different preferences and typing styles. However, if you are seeking a smooth and effortless typing experience, both switches aim to deliver similar results.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a light and smooth linear switch with a fulfilling feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch would be a great choice. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, it provides a snappy and feathery typing experience that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. Its clacky and high-pitched sound profile adds a crisp and bright sound when pressed. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 62.5 grams and a polished, creamy, or frictionless typing experience, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch would suit you better. It offers a refined and smooth finish, reducing friction and ensuring a sleek typing experience. Furthermore, it maintains the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup - a frictionless typing feel. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more