Aflion Iceberg vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Silent Ink Black. The Aflion Iceberg, although relatively new in the market, is already gaining recognition for its exceptional quality. Known for its satisfying smoothness and unique two-stage spring, the Iceberg switch offers a fulfilling typing experience. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', it provides a range of tactile feedback options to suit different preferences. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is perfect for those seeking a quieter typing experience. This switch has a cushion-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, making it ideal for environments that require a more hushed workspace. Classified as 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished', it offers a smoother and more subdued typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches differ in terms of their composition. The Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Silent Ink Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend. The polycarbonate top housing of the Iceberg creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This results in a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users who prefer a more distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black's INK blend top housing is characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, providing a satisfying and clacky typing sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Iceberg incorporates a nylon material, known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound. Due to its relatively softer plastic composition, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This makes the Iceberg a suitable choice for users who prefer a more muffled typing sound. Similarly, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, which is also described as clacky. The blend provides a thin and higher-pitched sound, giving it a distinct typing feel.
In terms of overall impact, the choice of housing material for a switch affects both the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, as well as the sound when releasing the key. While the Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper sound upon key release, the Silent Ink Black's INK blend top housing offers a satisfying clacky sound. Similarly, the Iceberg's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound when bottoming out, while the Silent Ink Black's INK blend bottom housing provides a relatively high-pitched, yet clacky sound. Therefore, while they have differences, both switches deliver unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Iceberg has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with minimal effort. Its bottom out force of 45 grams is slightly heavier, providing a slightly more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black requires a significantly heavier actuation force of 60 grams, resulting in a more forceful push feel for those who prefer a substantial typing experience. Similarly, its bottom out force of 70 grams adds to the overall heaviness of the switch. In terms of weight, the Iceberg is lighter than the Silent Ink Black, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. However, for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Silent Ink Black delivers with its medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, although both switches offer different levels of force, each can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on personal preference.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile experience when pressed down. Whether typing or gaming, users can expect a consistent level of feedback from both switches. The distance traveled by these switches ensures that the keystrokes feel smooth and responsive, making them suitable options for those seeking a comfortable typing or gaming experience.
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 Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 switch can be described as clacky and high-pitched. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, with a crisp and bright tone. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is muted, offering a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular switch. If you prefer a switch with a more subtle and less intense sound profile, the Silent Ink Black is a good choice. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Iceberg switch is known for being snappy, feathery, and subtle. It provides a super responsive typing experience due to its longer or dual-staged springs, making it feel more alive. Additionally, it requires little exertion from your fingers, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Iceberg switch also offers a gentle resistance and a sound signature that is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is silky and polished. It offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel. The polished finish of the switch, whether due to materials used or factory lubing, results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Iceberg and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches have unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iceberg switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound, with a snappy and feathery feel. It offers a fulfilling typing experience, especially for those who prefer a lighter actuation force and gentle resistance. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switch produces a muted sound and offers a silky and polished feel. It provides a cushion-like bottom-out feel and smooth key travel, perfect for those who prioritize a quiet and smooth typing experience. Depending on your preferences and typing environment, either switch can be a great choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a lighter switch with a smooth and fulfilling feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is a great choice. The Iceberg has a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a light option that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, it offers a satisfying smoothness and a gentle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces. The Iceberg switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, producing a crisp and bright sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you need a quieter typing experience, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch would be more suitable. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, it provides a medium-heavy feel. The Silent Ink Black switch has a cushion-like bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback, making it ideal for environments that require quieter typing. It offers a silky and polished typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and reducing friction.
Ultimately, the choice between the Iceberg and Silent Ink Black switches depends on your personal preferences and requirements. If you prioritize a lighter switch with a smooth and clacky sound, the Iceberg is a great option. However, if you need a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy feel and a smooth, polished sound, the Silent Ink Black is the way to go. Consider factors such as typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force to make an informed decision that suits your needs.
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