Aflion Iceberg vs. Akko Rosewood

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the Aflion Iceberg and the Akko Rosewood stand out as exceptional linear options, each with its unique characteristics and appeal. The Aflion Iceberg, hailing from a newer manufacturer, offers an impressive smoothness complemented by a two-stage spring design that delivers a satisfying feel with each keystroke. This switch is known for its clacky, high-pitched, snappy, feathery, and subtle sound profile, making it a great choice for users who appreciate tactile feedback and nuanced acoustics. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood brings a deep, satisfying "thock" sound to the table, thanks to a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant, which enhances the overall typing experience by reducing friction and improving keypress feedback. While both switches offer smooth linear action, the Iceberg leans more towards a lively acoustic presence, while the Rosewood provides a richer, more profound sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Iceberg Linear

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Iceberg and the Akko Rosewood switches feature distinctly different materials in their top housings, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The Iceberg utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. Polycarbonate’s rigidity allows for a clearer sound resonance, making it particularly well-suited for RGB lighting setups due to its translucency, which allows the light to shine through effectively. In contrast, the Rosewood employs nylon in its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience. Thus, while both switches can yield satisfying results, the Iceberg's polycarbonate housing provides a more vibrant sound, whereas the Rosewood leans towards a warmer and muted tone.

When examining the bottom housings of both switches, interestingly, they align perfectly as both feature nylon. This shared material means they will offer similar impacts on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing the key. The sound-absorbing properties of nylon allow for a deeper and fuller profile that characterizes the tactile experience of both switches. As a result, despite their differing top housing materials, both switches can deliver a comparable performance in terms of feel and acoustic characteristics at the bottom housing level. Therefore, the typing experience is enriched by the muted sound profile that both switches encapsulate at this stage.

In summary, while the Aflion Iceberg and the Akko Rosewood switches differ in their top housing materials—polycarbonate for Iceberg and nylon for Rosewood—their bottom housings unify them under the nylon standard, leading to a consistent feel in both cases. As a result, users can appreciate the distinctive auditory qualities brought forth by the top materials while enjoying a fuller sound from the nylon bottom. Whether a crisp or rounded experience is preferred, the combination of these materials allows both switch types to offer unique auditory profiles, catering to different user preferences without compromising on the overall quality of the typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, we notice some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Iceberg exhibits a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Rosewood's 40 grams. This difference suggests that the Iceberg may be more suited for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Rosewood, with its slightly heavier force, may appeal to users who favor a more substantial feel. In terms of bottom out force, the Iceberg again weighs in lighter at 45 grams versus the Rosewood’s 50 grams. Both switches offer a relatively light feel, but the Iceberg stands out as the lighter option overall. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will hinge on personal preference for actuation force and the desired tactile experience.

Travel distance

Both the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch share the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressed down, users will experience an identical keypress depth, contributing to a similar tactile feel during typing or gaming. Because both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect comparable results in terms of key responsiveness and overall performance, making either switch a suitable choice for those who prioritize consistency in key travel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switches produce a distinctively clacky noise, characterized by a sharp and bright sound profile. This makes them an excellent choice for those who prefer a more percussive auditory feedback while typing. The high-pitched nature of the Iceberg adds to this brightness, making each keystroke feel crisp. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood switches create a deep, satisfying "thock" sound, enhanced by a factory-applied lubricant that adds richness to the auditory experience. The contrast between the Iceberg's clacking and the Rosewood's thock gives potential users varied choices depending on their sound preferences.

In terms of feel, the Iceberg switches are noted for their snappy responsiveness, which is achieved through a two-stage spring design. This mechanism not only provides a lively typing experience but also contributes to a feathery lightness that reduces finger fatigue during prolonged use. The subtle resistance offered by the Iceberg ensures that typists can enjoy comfortable feedback without overwhelming strain. In contrast, the feel profile of the Rosewood switches remains unknown based on the available information, making it challenging to provide a direct comparison in this area.

Overall, if you're considering Aflion Iceberg and Akko Rosewood linear switches, it's essential to weigh their sound and feel characteristics. The Iceberg offers a bright and responsive typing experience, perfect for those who enjoy auditory feedback and lively feel, while the Rosewood appeals to users seeking a deep thock sound straight out of the box. Although the Rosewood's feel profile remains unknown, each switch will cater to distinct preferences, ensuring that regardless of which you choose, you’ll likely experience a satisfying typing journey.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, your personal preferences and usage scenarios should guide your choice. If you prioritize a light typing experience with a snappy, responsive feel, the Iceberg would be an ideal option. Its 45-gram actuation force makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions, whether for gaming or office work, without causing finger fatigue. Plus, its clacky sound profile adds an energetic vibe to your typing, making it perfect for those who enjoy auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you lean towards a deeper, thocky sound and are looking for a slightly firmer typing experience, the Rosewood switch with its 50-gram bottom-out force would suit you better. The factory-applied lubricant ensures a smooth and satisfying typing feel right out of the box, effectively blending a premium tactile experience with a richer sound signature. Ultimately, assess how these characteristics align with your own typing habits and ambiance preferences to choose the switch that will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more