Aflion Iceberg vs. Outemu Silent White
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Silent White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Silent White mechanical keyboard switches, we encounter two linear switches that offer different characteristics for keyboard enthusiasts. The Aflion Iceberg, produced by the relatively new switch manufacturer Aflion, stands out for its smoothness and unique two-stage spring mechanism that provides a satisfying feel. Known for being 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Iceberg switch offers a distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White switch lacks a specific standout feature but is known for its silent operation. It is categorized as silent, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter typing 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
1.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Silent White both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. In terms of sound and aesthetic qualities, these two switches are quite similar when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the Iceberg has a nylon bottom housing, while the Silent White also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Both switches benefit from the qualities of nylon in their bottom housings, contributing to the overall typing experience by enhancing the sound and feel of bottoming out the keys.
Since the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials are split between the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Silent White, users will notice differences in sound and feel depending on where the materials are used in each switch. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound produced when releasing a key. This division of housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience with distinct characteristics contributed by both the top and bottom housings of each switch.
Weight
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Silent White linear switch. The Iceberg requires 37 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 45 grams to bottom out, while the Silent White needs 45 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out. This makes the Iceberg better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as for work or gaming. The Silent White, on the other hand, offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Both switches provide a different typing feel due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Silent White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Iceberg has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Silent White switch. Generally, a longer travel distance can provide a more tactile and satisfying typing experience for some users who prefer a deeper keypress. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Silent White switch may be preferred by gamers or those looking for a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, with the Iceberg offering a longer travel distance option and the Silent White providing a slightly shorter travel distance.
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 White 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 known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This can be a preference for those who enjoy a more tactile and distinct auditory experience while typing. In contrast, the sound profile of the Outemu Silent White linear switch remains unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Iceberg switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle. The combination of a smooth keystroke and a two-stage spring mechanism provides a satisfying and responsive typing experience, making it suitable for different preferences. On the other hand, the feel of the Silent White switch is not specified, leaving a gap in the comparison between the two switches in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing feel.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offers a clacky sound profile and a mix of snappy and feather-light typing feel, the information available on the Outemu Silent White linear switch is limited. As a result, it is challenging to make a direct comparison between the two switches in terms of sound and feel. However, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it is recommended for newcomers to consider their typing preferences and priorities when choosing between the Iceberg and Silent White switches. Ultimately, experimenting with different switches will provide a more personalized typing experience to find the most suitable option.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Iceberg linear switch or the Outemu Silent White linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 45 grams and enjoy a smooth and fulfilling typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, then the Iceberg switch may be the one for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and prioritize a quiet typing experience over sound feedback, the Silent White switch could be a better fit. Consider the feel, sound, and bottom out force that best suits your typing style and environment to make an informed decision on which switch to choose for your mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what matters most to you.
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