Aflion Iceberg vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Gold present two distinct yet compelling options that cater to different preferences. The Aflion Iceberg, a linear switch, is celebrated for its satisfying smoothness and fulfilling feel, thanks to its innovative two-stage spring design. This switch offers a combination of clacky and snappy characteristics, making it ideal for users who value a clean, uninterrupted typing experience without the distraction of tactile bumps or clicks. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold, known for its clicky nature, provides audible feedback with each keystroke, appealing to typists who enjoy the nostalgic sound often associated with classic mechanical keyboards. While the Iceberg focuses on a more subdued feel suited for quiet typing sessions, the Gold ensures a lively interaction that can enhance the tactile experience. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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
The Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Gold switches share a significant similarity in their top housing material, as both employ polycarbonate. This common choice results in a sound profile characterized by sharpness, high-pitch clarity, and resonance. The stiff nature of polycarbonate contributes to a cleaner auditory experience, making both switches capable of delivering a crisp sound when typing. Moreover, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of setups that utilize these switches. Thus, users can expect a uniform lighting effect regardless of whether they choose the Iceberg or Gold model.
In contrast, when examining the bottom housing, both the Iceberg and Outemu Gold utilize nylon, diverging from the polycarbonate quality seen in their tops. Nylon's softer composition results in a noticeably deeper, fuller sound profile during typing. Because nylon absorbs more sound than the firmer materials used in other switches, it contributes to a smoother and more rounded auditory experience. This combination of polycarbonate on top and nylon at the bottom allows for a unique duality in sound characteristics—where the clashing attributes of each material merge to create an engaging typing experience.
Ultimately, the interplay of these materials leads to a distinct yet complementary sound experience in both the Aflion Iceberg and Outemu Gold switches. The polycarbonate upper housings enhance brightness and responsiveness, while the nylon bottoms provide a softer, absorbing quality that enriches the overall feel and acoustics. Thus, although there are differences in the housing materials, the thoughtful combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both switches results in a harmonious sound profile, allowing users to enjoy a satisfying typing experience regardless of their choice.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, there are noticeable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Iceberg's actuation force is 37 grams, making it a lighter option, while the Gold requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This means that typists and gamers who favor a lighter switch for prolonged use may find the Iceberg more comfortable for extended typing sessions, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel might prefer the Outemu Gold. In terms of bottom out force, the Iceberg has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is also considered light, compared to the Gold's 60 grams bottom out force, classified as medium. Therefore, the Iceberg is the lighter switch overall, appealing to those seeking ease and comfort, while the Gold caters to those who prefer a more defined tactile feedback and resistance.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch feature a travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that they have identical key travel. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on either switch, making their performance in typing and gaming comparable. Since both switches share this same travel distance, the overall key feel and actuation depth will be the same, allowing for a consistent user experience across both options.
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 Gold 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched acoustic profile, producing a sharp, bright, and percussive noise when pressed. This makes it an excellent choice if you prefer a more energetic auditory experience from your keyboard. However, as the Outemu Gold clicky switch lacks any distinct sound profile that is documented, we can't make comparisons on this front. If the Gold had a sound signature, it could potentially match or contrast with the Iceberg, but as it stands, the Iceberg's crisp sound will stand out on its own.
On the feel aspect, the Iceberg switch offers a snappy, feathery, and subtle touch, creating a highly responsive typing experience thanks to its two-stage spring design. This not only contributes to an exhilarating feel while typing but also ensures a light actuation force that minimizes finger fatigue, making it comfortable for prolonged use—be it gaming or office work. The Outemu Gold's feel quality remains unknown, meaning we can't gauge its tactile experience. Should it possess attributes similar to the Iceberg, users could find comparable responsiveness or comfort, but this is purely speculative.
In summary, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch boasts a notable clacky sound profile and a vibrantly responsive feel, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a lively typing experience. The Outemu Gold clicky switch has no available information to compare against the Iceberg in terms of sound or feel, so it's difficult to assess how they might stack up against each other. If auditory and tactile qualities are critical to your decision-making process, the Iceberg's documented performance provides clear advantages, while the Gold's characteristics remain an unknown variable.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a lightweight, smooth typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue, especially during long sessions of typing or gaming, the Iceberg switch is an ideal option for you. Its snappy and feathery feel, coupled with a clacky, high-pitched sound, makes it suitable for environments where you want to feel responsive feedback without overwhelming acoustics. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier, more tactile experience with the satisfying auditory feedback that comes from a clicky switch, the Outemu Gold will serve you well. Its medium actuation force provides a more substantial feel, making it a great choice for those who enjoy tactile feedback and do not mind a bit more resistance when typing. Thus, weigh your priorities regarding sound, feel, and the type of tasks you engage in to determine which switch aligns best with your needs.
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