Aflion Iceberg vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two mechanical keyboard switches that offer a unique typing experience, we have the Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Red Panda. While both switches provide their own merits, they possess distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Iceberg, produced by relatively new switch manufacturer Aflion, is renowned for its smoothness and fulfilling feel, thanks to its two-stage spring. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Iceberg switch promises a delightful typing sensation. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch boasts a light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. Classified as 'Thocky' and 'Mild', the Red Panda offers a distinct auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, allowing you to make the most informed decision and choose the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Iceberg and the Outemu Red Panda have similar housing materials, with both switches featuring a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows for a more vibrant and visually appealing experience. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either the Iceberg or the Red Panda.
Where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Iceberg utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Red Panda also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with the same qualities of deepness and fullness in sound production.
Although the housing materials for both switches are the same, it's important to note that the qualities each housing material brings to the switch will be split between the top and the bottom. When pressing down on either the Iceberg or the Red Panda, the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will play a more prominent role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, despite using the same housing materials, the overall typing experience may still differ slightly between the Iceberg and the Red Panda.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there are noticeable differences that cater to different preferences. The Iceberg has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it relatively light in terms of force required. In contrast, the Red Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which can be considered slightly heavier than the Iceberg.
For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Iceberg switch would be ideal. Its lower actuation force allows for easy triggering of keystrokes, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or extensive gaming periods. Conversely, the Red Panda switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. This can provide a stronger push feel that some users may find satisfying for a more tactile and responsive typing experience.
In terms of weight considerations, those who value a lighter switch may opt for the Iceberg, as it enables extended typing without fatigue. However, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may appreciate the Red Panda's heavier forces. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on individual preferences. It is important to note that even though the Iceberg and Red Panda have different actuation and bottom out forces, users seeking a similar result in terms of typing feel can adjust their typing technique accordingly to achieve a comparable experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Iceberg switch offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch offers a shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes, enhancing the overall responsiveness of the keyboard. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt and may prefer the longer travel distance provided by the Iceberg switch for a more satisfying keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 Iceberg switch from Aflion is known for its clacky and high-pitched profile. Pressing the switch produces a sharp and snappy sound, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch is described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. This can be likened to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Iceberg switch offers a snappy and feathery experience. The switch is super responsive and has a light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. It also has a subtle resistance, providing a gentle typing feel without being too feather-light. The sound signature of the Iceberg switch is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch offers a mild typing experience. It provides a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, maintaining a safe middle-ground zone that most people will find approachable.
Considering the available information, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Iceberg switch provides a clacky, high-pitched sound profile with a snappy and feathery feel. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch offers a thocky sound and a mild typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user. However, if you prefer a sharper and snappier sound with a more responsive feel, the Iceberg switch would be a suitable choice. If you prefer a deeper, more satisfying sound with a milder typing experience, the Red Panda switch would be a better fit. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a smooth and fulfilling typing experience with a light actuation force, then the Aflion Iceberg linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches provide a snappy and feathery feel, making them perfect for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. Additionally, Iceberg switches have a clacky and higher-pitched sound, which can be crisp and bright. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more satisfying sound, along with a mild and approachable typing experience, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch would be a better fit. With a medium actuation force, these switches offer a thocky sound and a gentle typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. Both switches have their own unique qualities, and it's important to consider what aligns best with your typing needs.
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