Aflion Iceberg vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note that both are linear switches, providing a smooth keystroke experience. The Iceberg, from the relatively new manufacturer Aflion, is praised for its quality and excellent performance. Its two-stage spring mechanism offers a satisfying feel and a level of smoothness that is highly appreciated by users. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch from Outemu is known for its quiet operation thanks to the dustproof design, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a more silent typing experience. While both switches offer unique features and benefits, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Dustproof Silent Ocean, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, their differences lie in the bottom housing. The Iceberg utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Conversely, the Dustproof Silent Ocean also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a rounder and duller sound.
Despite sharing a common polycarbonate top housing, the Aflion Iceberg and Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean differentiate themselves through their respective nylon bottom housings. While both switches benefit from the deeper and fuller sound profile provided by nylon, the softer nature of this material absorbs sound differently, resulting in a slight variation in the overall typing experience. The Iceberg's nylon bottom housing, for example, may offer a slightly different feel and sound compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean, even though they both share similar qualities in terms of acoustics.
In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housing materials of a switch play distinct roles in the overall typing experience. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Iceberg and Dustproof Silent Ocean switches contributes to a nuanced typing experience, with the characteristics of each material being distributed between the top and bottom of the switches. Despite any differences in sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to individual preferences and typing styles.
Weight
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch have noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Iceberg switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean's heavier 45 grams. Similarly, the Iceberg's bottom out force of 45 grams is lighter than the Dustproof Silent Ocean's 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Iceberg switch make it preferable for users who enjoy longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. In contrast, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and desired force sensitivity.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, we can see that the Iceberg has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Iceberg has a longer travel distance than the Dustproof Silent Ocean. The 4 mm distance of the Iceberg offers a more traditional feel, while the 3.3 mm distance of the Dustproof Silent Ocean is shallower and more suited for gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer different levels of depth in their travel distances, catering to varying preferences in typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a longer, more traditional travel distance or a shorter, quicker one for your typing needs.
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 Dustproof Silent Ocean 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 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience. This type of sound is ideal for those who prefer a crisp and percussive typing sound. On the other hand, information regarding the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch is unavailable. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can be further influenced by the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle. This means that the switch is super responsive, light to press, and gentle in resistance, offering a comfortable typing experience with reduced finger fatigue. These qualities make the Iceberg switch suitable for various typing tasks, including gaming, work, and school. Unfortunately, details about the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch are not provided.
Considering the available information, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch seems to offer a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a fulfilling feel and a clacky, high-pitched sound profile. While details about the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch remain unknown, it is possible that both switches may provide similar results based on the limited information provided. Ultimately, when choosing between the two switches, it is essential to consider your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose Aflion Iceberg linear switches or Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switches, it really comes down to your personal preference. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a smooth typing experience with a satisfying two-stage spring feel, then the Iceberg switches might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a quiet typing experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switches could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your typing style, sound preference, and the overall feel that you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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