Aflion Iceberg vs. Kailh Plum

Overview

The Aflion Iceberg and the Kailh Plum are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features and experiences. The Iceberg, a linear switch, is produced by Aflion, a relatively new switch manufacturer. Despite their newness, Aflion's Iceberg switches showcase the high quality of their products. These switches offer a smooth and satisfying typing experience, thanks to their two-stage spring mechanism. The Iceberg is also known for its clacky, high-pitched, snappy, feathery, and subtle characteristics. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum, a tactile switch, stands out for its unique combination of weightiness and minimal tactile bump. Unlike many other tactile switches, the Plum provides a hefty feel without a pronounced tactile feedback. Additionally, its sound profile is neutral and pleasant. Overall, both switches have their own merits and may appeal to different preferences. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your specific needs.

By the numbers

Aflion Iceberg Linear

Kailh Plum Tactile

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$6.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Iceberg and the Kailh Plum share similar housing materials in their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Additionally, the translucent property of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of both switches. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and visual experience from the polycarbonate top housing of both the Iceberg and the Plum.

However, the key difference lies in the housing materials used for the bottom housing. While the Iceberg features a nylon bottom housing, the Plum utilizes the same nylon material. Nylon is known to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, typing on both the Iceberg and the Plum switches will elicit a duller and rounder sound, with the qualities of the nylon bottom housing particularly influencing the bottom-out sound and feel.

In terms of overall performance and user experience, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role. While both the Iceberg and the Plum offer the benefits of polycarbonate top housing, the difference in their bottom housing materials leads to variations in sound and feel. Users who favor a sharper and crisper sound profile may lean towards the Iceberg with its polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, individuals seeking a deeper and fuller sound experience may prefer the Kailh Plum with its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired sound aesthetics for typing or gaming applications.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, we can see some noticeable differences. The Iceberg has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, meaning that it requires a gentle touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Plum switch is currently unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Iceberg requires 45 grams of force, which is still on the lighter side. On the other hand, the Plum has a bottom out force of 70 grams, indicating a medium-heavy resistance.

These differences in force can significantly impact the typing experience for different individuals. For those who prefer a lighter switch, such as those wanting to type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, the Iceberg with its lower actuation and bottom out forces would be a suitable choice. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial push feel during typing, opting for a switch with heavier forces like the Plum would offer a more satisfying tactile experience.

It is important to note that while the actuation force for the Plum switch remains unknown, the heavier bottom out force suggests that it may require a stronger push to trigger keystrokes compared to the Iceberg. If one desires a similar typing experience to the Iceberg, it is recommended to choose a switch with comparable or lighter actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, the weight or force of a switch is a crucial factor to consider as it can directly influence the typing comfort and preference of an individual.

Travel distance

The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch have contrasting travel distances. The Iceberg has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, which falls into the traditional range. On the other hand, the Plum has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shallower.

In terms of responsiveness, the Plum may be more favorable for gamers or individuals who value faster response times due to its shorter travel distance. The shorter distance allows for quicker actuation and can be beneficial for competitive gaming scenarios where every millisecond counts.

However, some users may find the abruptness of shorter travel distances to be uncomfortable or lacking in depth. In this case, the Iceberg with its longer travel distance would be a better fit. The added depth provides a more satisfying key press and can be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming.

Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and snappy sound, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a neutral sound profile. It does not have any specific descriptors associated with its sound, but it is described as being enjoyable and neutral. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a sharp and punchy sound, you would likely enjoy the Iceberg switches, while the Plum switches offer a more neutral and moderate sound experience.

When it comes to feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch provides a snappy and feathery typing experience. The longer or dual-staged springs in these switches make them highly responsive, giving the typing experience a lively feel. Additionally, they have a gentle resistance and a sound signature that is not resonant, making them suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a mild and stepped typing experience. The feel of these switches is more gentle compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They have a light actuation force, reducing finger strain and fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, they provide a tactile feel that is not as pronounced as hypertactile switches, allowing for some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. Overall, if you prefer a snappy and light typing experience, the Iceberg switches would be a good choice, while the Plum switches offer a mildly tactile typing experience.

In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iceberg switches have a clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience. They also offer a snappy and feathery feel, with a light actuation force and a gentle resistance. On the other hand, the Plum switches have a neutral sound profile, making the typing experience enjoyable and suitable for most purposes. They offer a mild and stepped feel, providing a gentle typing experience with some tactile feedback. Both switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately depends on the user's personal preference in terms of sound and feel. However, if a user is seeking similar results, they can expect a satisfying smoothness and fulfilling feel from both switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and fulfilling typing experience with a relatively light bottom out force, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is a great choice. These switches are known for their smoothness and satisfying feel, thanks to the two-stage spring. They have a snappy and feathery feel, which reduces finger fatigue and makes them comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Iceberg switches produce a clacky and high-pitched sound, which can add a crisp and bright element to your typing.

On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a unique tactile feel, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is the way to go. Plum switches are known for their weight and moderate tactile bump, making them stand out in the world of tactile switches. They provide a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making them approachable to most users. The Plum switches have a neutral sound profile, which is suitable for shared spaces or for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.

Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize smoothness, lightness, and a satisfying feel, the Iceberg switches are a great option. If you prefer a heavier switch with a moderate tactile bump, the Plum switches offer a unique typing experience. Consider the sound profile and feel that aligns with your preferences, and make a decision based on your individual needs.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Plum Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more