Aflion Iceberg vs. Kailh Sage

Overview

The Aflion Iceberg and the Kailh Sage are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Iceberg, manufactured by the relatively new switch manufacturer Aflion, is known for its smoothness and fulfilling feel. With its two-stage spring, the Iceberg provides a satisfying feedback for users. It falls under categories such as clacky, high-pitched, snappy, feathery, and subtle. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage is well-regarded for its distinct clicky typing experience. The Sage switches have a heavy weight to them, resulting in a refreshing sharpness and satisfying clickiness. Classified as invigorating, sharp, and crunchy, the Sage offers a unique typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Iceberg Linear

Kailh Sage Clicky

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Kailh Sage have distinct characteristics and effects on the sound and feel of the switches. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those seeking a more defined auditory experience. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency is particularly advantageous for users who plan on incorporating RGB lighting into their setup.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Iceberg features a nylon construction while the Sage also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The material's ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics leads to a duller and rounder sound. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings can provide a more satisfying acoustic experience for those who prefer a deeper thock or thump.

When comparing the two switches, it is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. While the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and overall feel, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing materials in each switch will influence the overall sound and tactile feedback differently depending on the user's preferences.

To summarize, both the Aflion Iceberg and the Kailh Sage use polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, the Iceberg's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Sage's nylon bottom housing produces a duller and rounder sound. Understanding the impact of housing materials on the sound and feel of the switches can help users make an informed decision based on their desired auditory and tactile experiences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it becomes clear that there are distinct differences between the two. The Iceberg switch boasts a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, making it easy to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, it has a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a light and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Sage switch's actuation force is currently unavailable, so its lightness or heaviness remains unknown. However, it does have a bottom out force of 70 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range.

Considering weight as a crucial factor, those seeking a lighter switch, suitable for prolonged typing sessions or lengthy gaming marathons, might prefer the Iceberg switch. Its low actuation force allows for effortless typing, reducing fatigue over extended periods of use. Conversely, individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience, characterized by a stronger push feel, may be inclined to choose options with heavier forces. In this case, the Sage switch's bottom out force of 70 grams provides a satisfying level of resistance and tactile feedback during key presses.

Despite the variations in actuation force and bottom out force between the two switches, it is important to note that exact comparisons between the Iceberg and Sage switches are difficult without knowing the precise actuation force of the latter. However, if the actuation forces were to be similar or equal, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience, regardless of the individual weights of the two switches.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that the Iceberg has a longer travel distance of 4.0mm, whereas the Sage has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6mm. The Iceberg's 4.0mm travel distance is more in line with the traditional distance, while the Sage's 3.6mm is slightly shallower. However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, particularly among gamers who seek faster response times. Therefore, if you value a more responsive typing experience, the Sage's shorter travel distance may be the preferred option. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, and in such cases, the Iceberg's longer travel distance would provide a more satisfying depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Iceberg and Sage switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel.

In terms of sound, the Iceberg switches have a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed. This produces a sharp and crisp sound that is described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Sage switches have a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. Both switches offer a distinct and satisfying typing experience in terms of sound.

In terms of feel, the Iceberg switches have a snappy and feathery feel. The snappiness is due to the switch's long or dual-staged springs, providing a more responsive typing experience. The feathery feel refers to the switch's light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue and allowing for comfortable extended typing sessions. The Sage switches, on the other hand, offer an invigorating and sharp tactile feel. The pronounced feedback and crisp tactile bump provide an immersive typing sensation with each keypress.

Based on the available information, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer different but equally appealing qualities. The Iceberg switches provide a smooth and fulfilling feel, while the Sage switches offer a heavy weight and refreshingly sharp clickiness. In terms of sound, the Iceberg switches have a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the Sage switches have a crunchy sound. Both switches cater to different preferences and are suitable for different typing experiences.

Overall, whether you prefer the Iceberg or Sage switches would depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel. It's important to consider factors such as the choice of board and keycaps, as they can also influence the overall typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a smooth and fulfilling typing experience, with a light actuation force and a clacky, high-pitched sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is the way to go. These switches offer a snappy and feathery feel, reducing finger fatigue and providing comfort for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier actuation force and a crunchy sound, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is the perfect choice. The Sage switches offer an invigorating and sharp tactile feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. Ultimately, the decision between the Iceberg and the Sage comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and actuation force. So, consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Sage Clicky

$6.25 per 10

Learn more