Aflion Iceberg vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, both the Aflion Iceberg and the HMX Poro have unique characteristics that will appeal to different types of typists and gamers alike. The Aflion Iceberg, a newcomer in the switch market, is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and a two-stage spring that provides a distinctly fulfilling feel with each keystroke. Its sound profile is described as clacky and high-pitched, eliciting a snappy response that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switches offer an ultra-smooth experience, meticulously lubricated to ensure effortless gliding across the keycaps. Their poppy and clacky sound adds a playful element to the typing experience, making them an attractive option for those who enjoy a more audible click. While both switches fall within the linear category, they deliver different tactile sensations and sound profiles that can significantly affect user enjoyment and performance. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Iceberg and HMX Poro switches demonstrate distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influences the auditory experience of each. The Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing is noted for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, particularly beneficial for users who prioritize crispness in their key feedback. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch while providing a high-fidelity auditory output.
In contrast, the HMX Poro utilizes a nylon top housing, which is characterized by a softer texture that absorbs more sound. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a duller but more rounded auditory experience. The use of nylon is not only traditional but also cultivates a unique typing sensation that contrasts with the sharpness of polycarbonate. While both switches feature different materials in their top housings, both aim to deliver an enjoyable typing experience, albeit through opposing sound profiles—the Iceberg focusing on clarity and brightness while the Poro emphasizes depth and warmth.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, both switches employ nylon material, which contributes a consistent auditory characteristic. This shared material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile in both instances, highlighting the impact the bottom housing has on the key feel when bottoming out. Therefore, while the top housings of the Iceberg and Poro create distinctly different aural experiences, their nylon bottom housings share similar qualities that ensure a softer, rounded sound upon key actuation. Ultimately, regardless of the differing top materials, users can expect a unified experience from the nylon bottom housings, fostering a nuanced interplay between the two distinct sound profiles of the respective switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, there are notable differences in their specifications. The Iceberg features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an appealing choice for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, especially for extended sessions. In contrast, the Poro switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which provides a more substantial feedback and tactile satisfaction for those who enjoy a stronger push feel while typing. While both switches are categorized as light, the Iceberg is lighter overall, offering a more effortless keystroke experience. Thus, users looking for a switch that accommodates longer periods of typing without fatigue might lean towards the Aflion Iceberg, whereas those who favor a firmer touch, indicative of the HMX Poro, would appreciate the more tactile feedback it provides.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch exhibit differences in travel distances that can significantly impact typing experience. The Iceberg features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it longer and providing a more pronounced tactile feedback, which some users may appreciate for a deeper, more deliberate keystroke. On the other hand, the Poro offers a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, appealing to those who prefer quicker responsiveness, particularly gamers who favor fast, reactive key presses. While the Iceberg caters to those who enjoy a hearty depth in their switches, the Poro's shorter distance aligns with trends towards efficiency and speed. Ultimately, users must choose between the satisfying heft of the 4 mm Iceberg or the swiftness of the 3.7 mm Poro.
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 HMX Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro for $2.99.
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 switch stands out with its clacky and high-pitched characteristics. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp, snappy sound that is both crisp and vibrant, making them an energetic choice for users who enjoy auditory feedback from their keystrokes. The sound produced by Iceberg switches can be quite bright and percussive, appealing to those who prefer a lively acoustic environment. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switch does not have a detailed description of its sound profile, which leaves its auditory characteristics somewhat ambiguous. Thus, while the Iceberg provides a definitive sound experience, the Poro switch's sound remains a mystery.
When it comes to feel, the Iceberg switches offer a delightful blend of attributes that enhance the typing experience. They are described as snappy, which contributes to their responsiveness through the use of a two-stage spring design; this makes each keystroke feel lively and engaging. The feathery aspect allows for an incredibly light press that minimizes finger fatigue, making the Iceberg well-suited for long typing sessions, whether for work or gaming. Additionally, the subtle resistance of these switches ensures a gentle typing feel without overwhelming feedback, which is ideal for shared spaces. In contrast, the HMX Poro's feel is not explicitly detailed, so one cannot make a direct comparison in this regard, leaving its tactile experience uncharted.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Iceberg linear switch provides a clear picture of its sound and feel characteristics—known for their sharp auditory feedback and responsive, lightweight actuation—the HMX Poro linear switch remains an enigma, offering potentially different or similar qualities that are not outlined. For a newcomer deciding between the two, the Iceberg is a safe bet for those seeking a dynamic and engaging typing experience, while the Poro might appeal to those curious about its unknown properties. Ultimately, if you value auditory feedback and a light, snappy feel, the Iceberg will likely provide a more satisfying experience, whereas the Poro's merits could be discovered through personal exploration.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and use cases. If you favor a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 45 grams, the Iceberg might be the right choice for you, especially if you appreciate a snappy typing experience that's both feathery and subtle. Its clacky, high-pitched sound profile will appeal to those who prefer a more vibrant auditory feedback when typing or gaming, making it a good option in shared spaces where a livelier sound is welcome. Conversely, if you’re looking for smooth, effortless keystrokes paired with a more robust feel, the HMX Poro’s slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams could provide the balance you need. Although it doesn’t have a distinct sound profile described, its meticulously lubricated design ensures a smooth action that enhances both performance and comfort, perfect for extended typing sessions. In essence, choose the Iceberg for a more engaging auditory experience and responsiveness, while the Poro is your go-to for seamless performance and a tactile yet smooth feel.
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