Aflion Iceberg vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Iceberg, a linear switch, and the Outemu Blue Jade, a clicky switch, offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Iceberg by Aflion, though a relatively new player in the switch market, has quickly gained recognition for its smoothness and two-stage spring mechanism, providing a satisfying and fulfilling typing experience. It falls under categories such as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle'. On the other hand, the Blue Jade by Outemu doesn't have as much information available about its background, but it is known for its clicky feedback and tactile response. While the Iceberg appeals to those looking for a smooth and subtle typing experience, the Blue Jade is ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced and tactile feedback. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and Outemu Blue Jade, it is evident that both switches incorporate nylon in their bottom housings. Nylon, known for its softer plastic properties, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. This shared feature ensures that both the Iceberg and Blue Jade switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and tactile feedback. However, the decision to use polycarbonate in the Iceberg's top housing sets it apart from the Blue Jade, as polycarbonate's stiffness creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference highlights the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of mechanical switches.
On the other hand, the use of polycarbonate in the Iceberg's top housing contrasts with the Blue Jade's nylon top housing. While polycarbonate produces a more clear and resonant sound profile with the additional benefit of translucency for RGB lighting, nylon absorbs more sound and contributes to a duller and rounder sound. This distinction in top housing materials between the Iceberg and Blue Jade switches leads to a significant difference in the typing experience and sound characteristics of each switch. However, both switches share a common ground in utilizing nylon for their bottom housings, ensuring a consistent deep and full sound profile regardless of their other housing material variations.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience and sound profile. The Aflion Iceberg's combination of polycarbonate and nylon in its housing materials creates a unique blend of sharpness and depth in sound, while the Outemu Blue Jade's consistent use of nylon throughout offers a more consistent and rounded sound profile. Understanding how different housing materials impact the sound and feel of mechanical switches can help enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting switches for their keyboards based on their preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch to the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is clear that the Iceberg switch is lighter overall. The Iceberg switch has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a more lightweight option. On the other hand, the Blue Jade switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel. For those who prefer a smoother and lighter typing experience, the Iceberg switch may be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Conversely, the Blue Jade switch would suit individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and more substantial typing feedback. In terms of similarities, both switches provide distinct tactile feedback that can enhance the typing experience, even though the specific forces differ. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience a consistent 4 mm distance traveled from top to bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get a similar typing experience in terms of key travel regardless of which switch they choose. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer the same level of performance and comfort to the user.
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 Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10 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 linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch's sound characteristics are unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Iceberg is lauded for its snappy and feathery qualities, offering a responsive typing experience with a light actuation force. This can reduce finger fatigue and make it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Blue Jade's feel is not specified, so it's hard to make a direct comparison between the two on this aspect.
Considering the available information, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch seems to excel in both sound and feel, providing a satisfyingly smooth and responsive typing experience with a sharp and snappy sound profile. While the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch's qualities remain unknown, it is important to note that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics, and depending on your preferences, you may achieve similar results with either choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and fulfilling typing experience with a light bottom out force, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Iceberg switch provides a snappy and feathery feel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, if you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Iceberg switch will be satisfying to your ears.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy the clicking sound feedback, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is the way to go. The Blue Jade switch provides a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, along with a tactile and responsive feel. The clicky feedback can enhance your typing experience, especially if you enjoy the audible confirmation of key presses.
Ultimately, your choice between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch will depend on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision.
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