Aflion Iceberg vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Iceberg and the HC Studio Roselle mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Iceberg from Aflion showcases a smooth two-stage spring design that provides a satisfying feel, characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Roselle by HC Studio stands out for its inherent material blend that delivers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a subtle, low-pitched sound signature. While the Iceberg offers a snappy and feathery feel, the Roselle boasts a frictionless and bassy 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Iceberg and HC Studio Roselle both offer unique housing materials for their switches, with the Iceberg featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Roselle boasts a POM top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Iceberg creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Roselle produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a different auditory experience. However, both switches aim to provide a pleasing sound profile, albeit with different tones and characteristics.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Iceberg's nylon material results in a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Roselle's POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. While the nylon material absorbs more sound and creates a duller sound, the POM material offers its unique sound quality. Despite the differences in materials used for the bottom housing, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through the sound produced, albeit in different ways.
Overall, the Aflion Iceberg and HC Studio Roselle offer unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The choice between polycarbonate and POM for the top housing, as well as between nylon and POM for the bottom housing, results in distinctive typing experiences with varying sound qualities. Whether one prefers a sharper and crisper sound profile from the polycarbonate or a deeper and more muted sound from the POM, both switches aim to provide a pleasing and unique typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the HC Studio Roselle linear switch's 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. In terms of bottom out force, the Iceberg also requires a lighter 45 grams compared to the Roselle's 52 grams, indicating a softer landing when typing. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Iceberg, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, the Roselle provides a slightly heavier typing experience, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel while typing. Both switches offer unique advantages, with the Iceberg being lighter overall in force and the Roselle falling into the medium-light category. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Roselle has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Iceberg. A difference of 0.4 mm may not seem significant, but it can have an impact on the overall typing or gaming experience. The shorter travel distance of the Roselle may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the slightly longer travel distance of the Iceberg may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for users who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience, providing a sharp and crisp sound during key presses. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch produces a bassy and low-pitched sound, creating a deeper and richer sound profile. If you prefer a more neutral sound profile, the Roselle switch is a suitable option. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Iceberg switch is praised for its snappy and feathery typing experience, offering a responsive and light touch that reduces finger fatigue. With a subtle resistance, the Iceberg switch provides a comfortable typing feel without being overly light. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle switch is known for its frictionless and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless key press without any sense of resistance or friction. The mild characteristics of the Roselle switch make it approachable to most users, striking a balance between various typing preferences.
Overall, if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a snappy and feathery typing feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a bassy and low-pitched sound profile with a frictionless and mild typing experience, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch is a great option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on your personal sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider the following guidelines: opt for the Iceberg if you prefer a light bottom out force of 45 grams and enjoy a satisfying smoothness with a two-stage spring mechanism. Additionally, if you appreciate a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, the Iceberg may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 52 grams and value an impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy typing sensation, the Roselle is the switch for you. The Roselle also offers a subtle, low-pitched sound signature and a frictionless typing experience. In closing, weigh these factors carefully to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences and typing style. Ultimately, whether you choose the Iceberg or the Roselle, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs and preferences in the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
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