Aflion Iceberg vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Iceberg and Outemu Cold Plum are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, each offering a unique typing experience. The Iceberg switch from Aflion stands out for its smoothness and two-stage spring design, providing a satisfying feel to users. Known for its 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle' characteristics, the Iceberg switch is a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switch boasts a thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, delivering a distinct typing experience. While it may not have specific categorizations listed, the Cold Plum switch is favored for its smooth keystrokes and satisfying sound. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing habits; 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
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
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
The Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Cold Plum both use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Cold Plum utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. The differences in housing materials provide unique sound characteristics to each switch, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
On the other hand, both the Iceberg and Cold Plum switches share a nylon bottom housing. This commonality means that typing on either switch will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the nature of nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be more pronounced compared to the top housing, making the typing experience consistent between the two switches in this aspect. Despite the differences in top housing materials, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches like the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Cold Plum plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While the Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, the Cold Plum's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. However, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile between the two switches. Whether you prefer a sharper and resonant sound or a deeper and fuller sound, these housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it becomes evident that the Iceberg is lighter in comparison to the Cold Plum. The Iceberg has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it light in both aspects. On the other hand, the Cold Plum has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Iceberg make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch and enjoy typing for longer periods without fatigue. In contrast, the heavier forces of the Cold Plum cater to individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Despite the differences in force, both switches offer unique benefits based on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Aflion Iceberg has the longer travel distance compared to the Outemu Cold Plum. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Iceberg provides a more traditional feel when pressing down on a key, while the 3.3mm travel distance of the Cold Plum offers a slightly shorter distance for those looking for faster response times. Gamers may prefer the Cold Plum for its shorter travel distance, while those seeking a more substantial depth of press may opt for the Iceberg. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired level of key press 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 Outemu Cold Plum 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, providing a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch's sound qualities are unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle, offering a responsive and light typing experience with gentle resistance. This makes it suitable for extended typing sessions and shared spaces. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch's feel qualities are unknown.
Overall, both the Aflion Iceberg and Outemu Cold Plum linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Iceberg switch provides a clacky sound and a smooth two-stage spring for a fulfilling feel, the Cold Plum switch delivers a thocky sound profile with a smooth keystroke experience. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, choosing either switch can result in a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Iceberg linear switch or the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, you should keep in mind the differences in their bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a light switch with a bottom out force of 45 grams and a snappy, feathery feel, the Iceberg may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a bottom out force of 70 grams and a thocky sound profile, the Cold Plum may be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and what feels most comfortable to you.
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