Aflion Iceberg vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Iceberg and the Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Aflion Iceberg, known for its smoothness and two-stage spring, provides a satisfying feel categorized by qualities such as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle'. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch stands out for its bright and clacky characteristics, coupled with a light touch for vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. While the Iceberg may appeal to those who enjoy a smoother and more nuanced typing experience, the Salt Ice's energetic and responsive nature could attract users seeking a more lively feel. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, it is evident that they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both keyboards. The translucency of polycarbonate is also highlighted, making it ideal for housing switches with RGB lighting. However, the Iceberg's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound than the stiffer polycarbonate. In contrast, the Salt Ice opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, emphasizing clarity and resonance in the sound profile.
Although both the Iceberg and the Salt Ice share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, the differences arise in the choice of material for the bottom housing. The Iceberg's nylon bottom housing offers a unique typing experience with a deeper sound profile, while the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing complements the sharp and crisp sound produced by the top housing. This contrast showcases how the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the keyboards. While the Iceberg focuses on a softer, more muted sound with nylon, the Salt Ice prioritizes clarity and resonance through polycarbonate.
The impact of having different housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch is evident in the variation of sound and feel when typing on the Iceberg and Salt Ice. Pressing down on either keyboard will highlight the qualities of the respective bottom housing material, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing material will have a significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This differentiation underscores the importance of housing materials in providing a unique typing experience tailored to the preferences of the user.
Weight
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch. The Iceberg requires 37 grams to actuate, while the Salt Ice needs 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Iceberg is also lighter, needing 45 grams compared to the unknown bottom out force of the Salt Ice. This means that the Iceberg will provide a lighter typing experience overall. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Iceberg for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier feel of the Salt Ice for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional and standard distance. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Salt Ice switch a popular choice among this group. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feeling when typing, the Iceberg switch may be more suitable due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 Aflion Iceberg linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, information on the sound characteristics of the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is unavailable. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Iceberg switch is known for its snappy and feathery qualities, offering a responsive typing experience with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue. The switch also provides a subtle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces due to its non-resonant sound profile. As for the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch, information regarding its tactile feel is not provided. Users can expect a similar light and responsive typing experience with the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch as well.
Overall, both the Aflion Iceberg and Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Iceberg switch provides a sharp and snappy sound profile along with a responsive and light typing experience, making it ideal for those seeking a satisfying and smooth feel. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch stands out with its bright and clacky characteristics, offering a vibrant feedback and effortless actuation for users looking for an energetic typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider your personal typing preferences. If you enjoy a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a light actuation force, the Aflion Iceberg may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright and clacky typing experience with vibrant feedback, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch might better suit your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choosing between them comes down to what type of typing experience you value most.
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