Aflion Iceberg vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note that both are linear switches known for their unique qualities. The Iceberg from Aflion, a relatively new switch manufacturer, offers a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel due to its two-stage spring. It is characterized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle'. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver from Gateron features a short travel distance for lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch. While both switches have their strengths, the Iceberg may appeal to those looking for a more tactile and satisfying typing experience, while the Smoothie Silver could be ideal for users who prioritize speed and responsiveness. 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
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Smoothie Silver both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both materials are known for their pleasing sound profiles, with polycarbonate being stiffer and more resonant, while POM is softer and absorbs more sound. In terms of aesthetics, polycarbonate is translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, whereas POM provides a more classic look.
The differences continue with the bottom housings of the Iceberg and Smoothie Silver. The Iceberg utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which enhances the overall sound profile by creating a deeper and fuller sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, while POM's unique sound profile leans towards the deeper side with a relatively more muted tone. Despite these differences, both materials contribute to an overall pleasing sound experience when typing on these switches.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in the sound and feel of typing on a keyboard. While the top and bottom housings of the Iceberg and Smoothie Silver provide contrasting sound profiles, the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether opting for the sharper and more resonant polycarbonate of the Iceberg or the deeper and more muted POM of the Smoothie Silver, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Iceberg is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams, while the Smoothie Silver is heavier at 45 grams. The Iceberg also has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the Smoothie Silver, for which the bottom out force is unknown. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Iceberg make it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as for work or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Smoothie Silver may appeal to those who seek a more substantial and firm typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, we find that the Iceberg has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Smoothie Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Iceberg has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Smoothie Silver. A 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, while a 3.0mm travel distance is considered shallow. Gamers, who prefer faster response times, may opt for the shorter travel distance of the Smoothie Silver. However, those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke may prefer the longer travel distance of the Iceberg. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing 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 Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience, producing sharp and crisp sounds with each press. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is known for its thocky sound profile, providing a different auditory feedback compared to the Iceberg. Depending on the user's preference for sound, one may prefer the Iceberg for its sharpness or the Smoothie Silver for its unique thocky sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is described as snappy and feathery, offering a responsive typing experience with a light touch that reduces finger fatigue. Additionally, the two-stage spring mechanism in the Iceberg switch provides a fulfilling typing feel. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the tactile experience of the two switches.
Overall, both the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Iceberg switch is known for its clacky sound and snappy, feathery feel, the Smoothie Silver switch boasts a thocky sound profile and features a short travel distance for quick actuation. Users looking for a more traditional typing sound may prefer the Iceberg, while those seeking a different auditory experience may lean towards the Smoothie Silver. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light bottom out force and enjoy a smooth typing experience with a satisfying feel, the Iceberg switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a short travel distance for fast actuation, a thocky sound, and a feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver switch might be more suited to your needs. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision to ensure that you choose the switch that best complements your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so trust your instincts and go with the one that feels right for you.
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