Aflion Iceberg vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Iceberg, a linear switch, and the Outemu Crystal Brown, a tactile switch. The Aflion Iceberg, coming from a relatively new switch manufacturer, stands out for its smoothness and satisfying feel thanks to its two-stage spring mechanism. Known for being 'clacky', 'high-pitched', 'snappy', 'feathery', and 'subtle', the Iceberg is a great choice for those who prioritize a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown lacks a standout reputation but offers a tactile typing experience with a different feel compared to linear switches. While it may not have specific characteristics associated with it, the Crystal Brown provides a tactile feedback that some users prefer. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 the Outemu Crystal Brown, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known to create a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. Thus, users can expect similar sound characteristics from both switches when it comes to their top housing material.
However, the bottom housing material differs between the two switches, with the Iceberg using nylon and the Crystal Brown also utilizing nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Its softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a distinct sound experience between the bottom housings of the Iceberg and the Crystal Brown, with the Iceberg likely offering a richer sound due to its nylon bottom housing.
When considering how the top and bottom housings affect the overall sound and feel of a switch, it is important to note that each housing material contributes differently. The bottom housing material will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material will affect the sound when a key is released. Therefore, while both the Iceberg and the Crystal Brown share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the difference in their bottom housing materials may result in a varied typing experience for users.
Weight
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch's 45 grams. This means that the Iceberg switch requires less force to register a keystroke, making it a good choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Iceberg requires 45 grams, while the Crystal Brown requires 55 grams, putting the Crystal Brown in the heavier category. Some users may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Crystal Brown for a more substantial typing feel. Overall, those looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Iceberg, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may opt for the Crystal Brown.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it can be noted that they both provide a consistent experience in terms of how much distance the switch travels when pressed. Users can expect similar results in terms of key actuation depth and tactile feedback when using either switch. Overall, the travel distance for both switches allows for a comfortable typing experience, whether you prefer a linear switch like the Iceberg or a tactile switch like the Crystal Brown.
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 Crystal Brown 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 Iceberg linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is not available. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard case and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Iceberg linear switch is characterized as snappy, feathery, and subtle. The two-stage spring mechanism of the Iceberg switch provides a responsive and lively typing experience, making it enjoyable for extended typing sessions. The feathery actuation reduces finger fatigue and the gentle resistance adds to the overall comfort. Unfortunately, information on the tactile feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch is not provided.
Based on the available information, the Iceberg linear switch offers a satisfyingly smooth feel with a snappy and responsive typing experience, accompanied by a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch remain unknown, it can be inferred that the Iceberg switch is a solid choice for those looking for a tactile typing experience with distinct auditory feedback. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter switch, the Iceberg with a bottom out force of 45 grams may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier touch, the Crystal Brown with a bottom out force of 55 grams may be the better choice. Additionally, if you prefer a snappy and high-pitched sound profile, the Iceberg may be more to your liking. However, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with no specific sound profile, the Crystal Brown might be the way to go. Lastly, if you enjoy a feathery or subtle feel when typing, the Iceberg offers those options as well. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
