Aflion Iceberg vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Iceberg and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura stand out as notable choices for different reasons. The Aflion Iceberg, a linear switch, is lauded for its smoothness and fulfilling feel thanks to its two-stage spring. Known for its 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle' characteristics, the Iceberg is a great option for those who prefer a precise and fast typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, a tactile switch, offers a snappy response and a buttery downstroke that strikes a delicate balance of tactility without being overwhelming. With a sound signature described as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Snappy', the Purple Sakura is an excellent choice for typists who enjoy a more tactile and responsive 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

Aflion Iceberg Linear

Sarokeys Purple Sakura Tactile

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$4.00

$3.15 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Iceberg and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches featuring RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Iceberg and Purple Sakura have nylon bottom housings, which result in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.

The differences between the Aflion Iceberg and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura become apparent when looking at the properties of their housing materials. The Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper sound profile when pressing down on the keys, while the nylon bottom housing enhances the fullness of the typing experience. In comparison, the Purple Sakura offers a similar sharp sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing, but also provides a rounder sound due to the nylon bottom housing. Both switches benefit from the unique qualities of their housing materials, resulting in distinct typing experiences for users.

Overall, the Aflion Iceberg and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura showcase how the choice of housing materials can impact the sound and feel of mechanical switches. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, they offer slightly different sound profiles and typing experiences. The Iceberg's stiffer polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper sound when releasing keys, while the Purple Sakura's softer nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller and deeper sound when typing. Despite these differences, both switches effectively demonstrate how the combination of housing materials can influence the overall performance of mechanical switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is evident that the Iceberg is the lighter of the two. The Iceberg has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Purple Sakura has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Iceberg requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the Purple Sakura. Some may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Iceberg for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier forces of the Purple Sakura for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

In comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is clear that the Iceberg has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Purple Sakura's 3.2 mm. The Iceberg offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Purple Sakura falls on the shorter end of the spectrum. Gamers may prefer the Iceberg for its longer travel distance, which provides a more deliberate and pronounced feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura may appeal to those seeking a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the type of typing experience one is looking for.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is characterized as clacky and high-pitched, giving it a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches can provide a unique sound experience, with the Iceberg being more sharp and percussive, while the Purple Sakura offers a more moderate and versatile sound signature depending on your setup.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Iceberg switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle, providing a responsive and light typing experience with a gentle resistance. In contrast, the Purple Sakura switch is characterized as buttery, mild, and snappy, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a more approachable typing feel. Both switches excel in responsiveness and comfort, catering to different preferences in tactile feedback and typing sensation.

Taking into consideration the sound and feel qualities of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is apparent that they offer distinct experiences to users. The Iceberg switch leans towards a sharper sound profile and a more responsive typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch provides a smoother sound and a gentler typing experience, suitable for users looking for a more moderate and versatile switch option. Ultimately, choosing between the Iceberg and Purple Sakura switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.

Conclusion

Ultimately, when choosing between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light touch and a smooth typing experience with a snappy response, the Iceberg switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier keystroke with a pronounced tactile bump and a buttery downstroke, the Purple Sakura switch could be more to your liking. Consider the sound and feel characteristics described for each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences. Whether you prioritize responsiveness, sound profile, or typing comfort, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the Iceberg and Purple Sakura switches comes down to what feels best for you during your typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

Sarokeys Purple Sakura Tactile

$4.00

$3.15 per 10

Learn more