Aflion Iceberg vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Iceberg and the Akko Penguin offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Iceberg, a linear switch from Aflion, stands out for its smoothness and satisfying two-stage spring mechanism, giving it a clacky, high-pitched, and snappy feel. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin, a tactile switch, is known for its silent operation and rounded tactile bump, providing a polished, muted, and mild feedback. The Penguin's medium weight strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, making it ideal for quiet office environments. 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
43g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Akko Penguin switches exhibit some key differences in terms of sound profile and overall typing experience. The Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Penguin's nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate lends to a more clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon material absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. Therefore, users seeking a more distinct and sharp sound may prefer the Iceberg, while those looking for a deeper and fuller sound may lean towards the Penguin.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the Iceberg and the Penguin share similarities in that they both utilize nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings also elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softness absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is significant, highlighting the importance of the material in the overall typing experience. Despite the similar housing material, the overall sound and feel of the switches may still differ based on other factors such as stem material and design.
In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg and the Akko Penguin switches showcase how different housing materials can impact the sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch. While the Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Penguin's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller tone. Both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, emphasizing the importance of material choice in enhancing the typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Iceberg and the Penguin will depend on individual preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Akko Penguin tactile switch which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Iceberg switch also has a lighter force of 45 grams, while the Penguin switch has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Iceberg switch make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Penguin switch provide a more substantial typing feel, perfect for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Iceberg has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Penguin. The 4.0mm travel distance on the Iceberg is more traditional, offering a deeper press when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the 3.3mm travel distance on the Penguin is shallower, providing a faster response time that may be preferred by gamers. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, with the Iceberg providing more depth and the Penguin giving a quicker keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance - whether you prefer a longer, more traditional press or a shorter, quicker response.
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 Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
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 described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is muted and neutral, offering a softer and quieter sound profile compared to the Iceberg. If you prefer a more crisp and bright sound, the Iceberg would be the choice, while the Penguin provides a more subdued experience ideal for environments where noise reduction is important.
Moving on to feel, the Iceberg switch offers a snappy and feathery typing experience, with a fulfilling feel due to its two-stage spring mechanism. Additionally, it has a subtle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces. In comparison, the Akko Penguin tactile switch provides a polished and mild typing experience, with a balance between responsiveness and comfort. It also offers a feathery and subtle feel, allowing for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue.
Considering all the available information, if you are looking for a linear switch with a sharp sound profile and responsive feel, the Aflion Iceberg switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a tactile switch that offers a quiet sound profile and a balanced typing experience, the Akko Penguin switch would suit your preferences. Both switches cater to different preferences and environments, so choosing between them would depend on your specific needs and preferences. Ultimately, whether you go for the Iceberg or the Penguin switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience based on the provided information.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a smooth and fulfilling typing experience with a light bottom out force, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, with a medium bottom out force and a quieter profile, the Akko Penguin tactile switch would be the better option for you, especially in office environments. Consider your typing preferences and environment when choosing between these two switches to ensure you have the best mechanical keyboard experience possible.
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