Aflion Iceberg vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches like the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Silent Green, there are key differences to consider. The Iceberg, a linear switch from the relatively new switch manufacturer Aflion, stands out for its smoothness and unique two-stage spring that provides a satisfying feel. Known for its characteristics like being clacky, high-pitched, snappy, feathery, and subtle, the Iceberg offers a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Green, a linear switch from Outemu, doesn't have a specific standout point or category. For those looking for a quieter typing experience, the Silent Green may be a preferred choice. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to better determine which one would be the best fit for your preferences.
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
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Silent Green, both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate creates a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Iceberg utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound, contrasting with the sharper sound created by the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Silent Green uses polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, maintaining a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile throughout the switch.
In terms of functionality, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, while the top housing material impacts the sound when a key is released. By understanding the qualities that each housing material brings to a switch, keyboard enthusiasts can choose switches that align with their preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics. Whether it's the Iceberg's combination of polycarbonate and nylon or the Silent Green's consistent use of polycarbonate, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch have differing actuation and bottom out forces, providing unique typing experiences for users. The Iceberg switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing touch. On the other hand, the Silent Green switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who like a stronger push feel may appreciate the Silent Green switch for its higher force requirements. The weight of a switch can affect typing comfort and endurance, with lighter switches being favored for extended typing sessions and heavier switches for a more tactile typing experience. Overall, the Iceberg switch is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force compared to the Silent Green switch, offering users different options based on their preferences.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is clear that they offer the same keypress experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect a consistent feel when typing on keyboards equipped with either the Iceberg or Silent Green switches. In terms of travel distance, there is no significant difference between the two switches, and users can expect similar results when using either one.
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 Silent Green 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
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it is important to note that the Iceberg switch is known for its smoothness and two-stage spring that provides a satisfying feel. In terms of sound, the Iceberg switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, which can be sharp and crisp. On the other hand, the Silent Green switch's sound profile is unknown. In regards to feel, the Iceberg switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle, providing a responsive and comfortable typing experience. Unfortunately, the feel of the Silent Green switch is unknown. Ultimately, based on the available information, it can be said that the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offers a smoother, snappier feel with a clacky sound profile, while the Outemu Silent Green linear switch remains a bit of a mystery in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a snappy and clacky typing experience, the Iceberg switch would be a great choice, while the Silent Green switch may provide a different experience that is yet to be discovered.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it's important to consider your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and enjoy a snappy and feathery typing experience, the Iceberg may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force and value a quiet typing experience, the Silent Green could be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what will enhance your overall typing experience and align with your personal preferences.
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