Aflion Iceberg vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Oil King, both being linear switches. The Iceberg, produced by the relatively new switch manufacturer Aflion, has garnered attention for its exceptional quality. This switch offers a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel, thanks to its two-stage spring. It is primarily known for being clacky, high-pitched, snappy, feathery, and subtle. On the other hand, the Oil King from Gateron is often regarded as one of the favorite linear switches. Users praise its buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of snapping a dark chocolate bar. Categorized as low-pitched, creamy, silky, bassy, buttery, and polished, the Oil King delivers a different tactile experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision and find the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Oil King contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Iceberg utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the Iceberg's translucent polycarbonate top housing is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Oil King features a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both switches have different sound characteristics, they both offer unique and satisfying auditory experiences.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Iceberg and the Oil King utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Thus, users can expect a similar sound experience in this aspect for both the Iceberg and the Oil King, with a focus on a deeper and fuller sound while typing.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Iceberg and the Oil King differ, they play crucial roles in the overall sound of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Iceberg emphasizes a sharper and crisper sound when releasing a key, allowing for a satisfying auditory experience. In contrast, the Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing contributes to a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as "clacky". These distinct characteristics demonstrate that the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when letting go of a key, while the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and overall feel of the switch. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound qualities that enhance the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, we can clearly see a difference in their weights. The Iceberg has a lighter touch, with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This light touch allows for effortless keystrokes and is preferable for those who want to type for extended periods without strain. On the other hand, the Oil King offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier force. It has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a stronger push feel. This is suitable for individuals who enjoy a tactile response and desire a more forceful typing experience. Although both switches offer distinct weights, it is worth mentioning that if one desires similar results, they can choose the lighter Iceberg switch and apply a bit more force during typing to achieve a result similar to the heavier Oil King switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard. In the case of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, both switches have 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 the same distance between the top and the bottom of the switch. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall typing experience when using either of these switches.
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 Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Iceberg switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. This means that when pressed, the switch produces a sharp and crisp sound, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King switch is described as low-pitched and bassy. This switch offers a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Overall, the Iceberg switch will provide a sharper and brighter sound, while the Oil King switch will offer a deeper and more resonant tone.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Iceberg switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle. This switch is super responsive due to its longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. Additionally, it is exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Iceberg switch also has a gentle resistance and a sound signature that is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King switch is described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished. These switches offer an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. They glide effortlessly under your fingers, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. The Oil King switch is known for its smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, the Iceberg switch will provide a snappier and lighter feel, while the Oil King switch will offer a smoother and more luxurious typing experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg and Gateron Oil King switches both offer unique and desirable qualities. The Iceberg switch provides a sharp and crisp sound with a snappy and feather-light feel. On the other hand, the Oil King switch offers a deep and rich sound with a creamy and silky smoothness. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. It is important to consider other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, as they can affect the sound of the switches. If one is looking for a similar sound and feel to the Iceberg switch but prefers a low-pitched and bass-heavy sound, they can achieve similar results with the Gateron Oil King switch.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're looking for a light, smooth, and fulfilling linear switch experience, the Aflion Iceberg switches are a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches provide a snappy and feathery feel, reducing finger fatigue and making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Iceberg switches have a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, offering a crisp and bright sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy linear switch with a buttery smoothness and a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, the Gateron Oil King switches are the perfect option for you. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, these switches provide a creamy and silky typing experience, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. The Oil King switches offer a mellow and rich sound, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Iceberg and Gateron Oil King switches depends on your personal preferences for key feel and sound. Whether you prioritize a light and snappy typing experience with a clacky sound or a smooth and buttery feel with a low-pitched sound, both switches offer an exceptional typing experience. So, take into consideration your preferred bottom out force, sound profile, and key feel to determine which switch will best suit your needs. Happy typing!