Aflion Iceberg vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Maple Leaf offer distinct experiences for users. The Iceberg, a linear switch from the relatively new switch manufacturer Aflion, is celebrated for its smoothness and two-stage spring design that provides a satisfying feel. With descriptors like 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Iceberg switch offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf from Outemu is a tactile switch but lacks specific notable characteristics. If you're looking for a switch that provides a linear, smooth typing experience, the Iceberg may be the way to go. In contrast, the Maple Leaf offers 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 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
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
The Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Maple Leaf both utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer properties that create a sharper and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Maple Leaf incorporates a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. Despite these differences, both switches excel in providing a unique sound experience based on their respective housing materials.
Moving to the bottom housings, both the Iceberg and Maple Leaf utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to other harder plastics. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound experience. Although both switches share the same bottom housing material, they each bring their own characteristics to the overall sound profile, adding depth and complexity to the typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of mechanical switches like the Aflion Iceberg and Outemu Maple Leaf. While the Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound, the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound experience. On the other hand, both switches benefit from the nylon bottom housing, absorbing sound and enhancing the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a crisp and clear sound or a rounder, fuller tone, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch have contrasting actuation and bottom out forces. The Iceberg has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Maple Leaf has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The Iceberg provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke. In contrast, the Maple Leaf offers a heavier push feel, which can be appealing to users looking for a more substantial typing experience. Choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with lighter switches being better suited for longer typing sessions, and heavier switches providing a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of each switch contribute to the overall typing feel and user experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Maple Leaf for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may gravitate towards the Iceberg with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of key press depth and 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 Maple Leaf 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 producing a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, giving a sharp and percussive sound profile that some users may find satisfying. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound profile of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is described as being snappy and having a feathery feel, making it responsive and light to press with a gentle resistance that can be comfortable for extended typing sessions. The two-stage spring in the Iceberg switch contributes to a fulfilling typing experience. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch.
Overall, based on the information provided, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offers a unique combination of a satisfying smoothness, snappy feel, and clacky sound profile, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. In comparison, the qualities of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch remain unknown, but it is likely that it offers a different typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch, the Iceberg with 45 grams of bottom out force may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier feel, the Maple Leaf with 65 grams of bottom out force may be more suitable. Additionally, take into account the sound and feel of the switches. The Iceberg is described as clacky and high-pitched, offering a snappy and feathery feel. The Maple Leaf's sound and feel characteristics are not specified. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for. Choose wisely based on your own needs and preferences.
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