Aflion Iceberg vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two standouts in the linear category are the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie. The Iceberg, emerging from the relatively new Aflion brand, showcases the quality craftsmanship they aspire to with its satisfying smoothness and engaging two-stage spring mechanism, offering a snappy and somewhat clacky feel. This makes it an appealing choice for gamers and typists alike who appreciate tactile feedback without overwhelming noise. In contrast, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, a medium-weight all-POM switch, delivers an equally smooth typing experience, but it stands out with its thocky sound profile, creating a more muted yet rich auditory experience. This switch is ideal for users who seek a balance between performance and a quieter keystroke. Both switches cater to distinct preferences, making your choice largely dependent on what feel and sound you prioritize in your typing experience. 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

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, distinct characteristics arise from the materials used in each switch. The Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing, which is noted for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to the stiffness of the polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity. The translucency of this material is especially beneficial for users who want to showcase RGB lighting, allowing light to pass through effectively and create a vibrant visual experience. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing that results in a uniquely deeper and more muted sound profile. POM is known for creating pleasant sound qualities, but it does not achieve the same level of brightness as polycarbonate, leading to a softer auditory experience when typing or gaming.

The bottom housings of the two switches demonstrate that both companies opted for unique materials that provide distinct auditory experiences. The Iceberg's nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller and deeper acoustic profile, effectively absorbing more sound due to its relative softness. This results in a duller and rounder sound that often feels more robust when bottoming out. Conversely, the Sea Salt Smoothie's POM bottom housing creates a sound profile similar to the POM top housing, featuring muted and deeper qualities that enhance the overall sound experience. In this aspect, both switches utilize POM to cultivate a balanced sound output, making them distinct yet comparable in certain acoustic attributes.

Ultimately, the combination of these materials leads to different overall experiences in terms of sound and feel when typing. With the Iceberg's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, users can expect a clear, resonant sound that is bright and sharp, especially noticeable on release. In comparison, the Sea Salt Smoothie's dual POM housings create a consistent sonic landscape that prioritizes a muffled, deeper sound experience. If a user values a more muted sound profile, either switch could be satisfying as they both highlight different aspects of acoustics. To achieve similar results with the lighter-toned sound of the Iceberg, one would likely have to push the Sea Salt Smoothie harder, thereby allowing the deeper tones to come forward. Nevertheless, both switches provide a worthwhile experience tailored to user preference, demonstrating how varied materials can influence tactile and auditory sensations within mechanical keyboards.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, we can see a notable difference in their actuation forces, while the bottom out force of the Sea Salt Smoothie remains unknown. The Iceberg features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, perfect for extended periods of use or gaming. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie has a heavier actuation force of 48 grams, appealing to those who favor a more substantial and tactile feel when typing. Since the bottom out force of the Smoothie is not specified, we cannot directly compare it to the Iceberg’s bottom out force. However, the clear difference in actuation force indicates that users will experience a lighter push with the Iceberg and a heavier push with the Smoothie, allowing potential users to choose based on their preferences for typing feel and resistance.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Iceberg features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sea Salt Smoothie has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means the Iceberg provides a more traditional and deeper actuation, which some users may find preferable for a more satisfying keystroke experience. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie, with its shorter 3.7 mm travel, caters to those who prioritize quicker response times, often favored by gamers. Therefore, if you prefer a more responsive feel, the Sea Salt Smoothie would be the better choice, whereas the Iceberg is ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched auditory profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound with each keystroke. This results in an engaging typing experience that is both bright and percussive, making it an exhilarating choice for those who enjoy a less muted acoustic feedback. Given that the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie doesn't have specific sound characteristics detailed, it's uncertain how it compares. However, it's important to note that the overall sound produced by both switches will be influenced by the keyboard build, materials, and keycap choices, making it possible for both switches to yield satisfying auditory experiences tailored to personal preference.

When it comes to feel, the Iceberg excels with descriptors such as snappy, feathery, and subtle. The dual-stage spring design enhances responsiveness, providing an exhilarating typing experience that's lively, while the light actuation force reduces finger fatigue, ideal for extended periods of use. The tactile feedback is gentle enough to avoid overwhelming resistance, which keeps the typing atmosphere comfortable—making the Iceberg a versatile option. Details about the feel of the Sea Salt Smoothie are not specified; therefore, it’s difficult to draw direct comparisons in this area.

In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch stands out with its snappy, feathery, and subtle qualities while also delivering a bright, clacky sound profile. If sound and feel are critical factors for your typing experience, the Iceberg offers a rounded package suitable for various uses. The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie could potentially provide similar results, but without clearer information on its sound and feel, making it harder to recommend with confidence. Therefore, for newcomers to mechanical keyboards, the Iceberg offers a more defined experience, while the Sea Salt Smoothie remains an unknown yet intriguing option to explore.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the overall experience you desire. If you appreciate a snappy and responsive experience with a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, the Iceberg switch may be your ideal choice. Its lighter 45-gram bottom out force makes it particularly suitable for long sessions, whether you're gaming, working, or just typing away, minimizing finger fatigue with its feathery feel. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more balanced sound profile and a switch that offers top-notch quality at an accessible price, the Sea Salt Smoothie is worth considering. While its bottom out force might be less defined, it is celebrated for its thocky sound and exceptional smoothness, ideal for users who value a quieter yet rewarding typing experience. In summary, your decision hinges on whether you prioritize a snappy, vibrant typing feel or a more subdued, polished interaction, so choose the switch that best aligns with your personal typing style and environment.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

Learn more