Aflion Iceberg vs. Jwick Splash Brothers

Overview

The Aflion Iceberg and Jwick Splash Brothers are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that both offer a satisfying typing experience. The Iceberg, manufactured by Aflion, is a linear switch that is representative of the high quality switches produced by the brand. It is known for its smoothness and fulfilling feel, thanks to its two-stage spring. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Iceberg switch delivers a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers, also a linear switch, is renowned for its speed and excellent typing feel. Its shorter activation combined with a long pole stem provides a unique typing sensation. Additionally, these switches emit a pleasing creamy sound. The Jwick Splash Brothers is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you make an informed decision based on your preferences.

By the numbers

Aflion Iceberg Linear

Jwick Splash Brothers Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$2.49 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Iceberg and the Jwick Splash Brothers both feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on both switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal for RGB lighting, the Iceberg and Splash Brothers will yield similar results with their polycarbonate top housings.

However, the difference lies in their nylon bottom housings. The Iceberg utilizes nylon as the material for its bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers also have a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar effect of a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches benefit from the sound absorption qualities of nylon, creating a more satisfying typing experience.

It is important to note that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will have a distinct impact on the overall sound profile. When pressing down on either the Iceberg or the Splash Brothers, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key is more influenced by the polycarbonate top housing material. Thus, while the switches may have similar qualities in their respective top and bottom housings, the distribution of these qualities may vary, resulting in a nuanced sound experience.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Iceberg has an actuation force of 37 grams, while the Splash Brothers has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Iceberg requires 45 grams, while the Splash Brothers requires 48 grams. Both switches can be considered lightweight, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, the Iceberg is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Splash Brothers is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. As a result, those who prioritize a lighter touch may opt for the Iceberg, whereas those seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Splash Brothers. Nevertheless, both switches offer relatively similar results for those who prefer lighter forces.

Travel distance

The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch have different travel distances. The Iceberg has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered more traditional, while the Splash Brothers has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The difference may seem small, but it can impact the overall feel of typing or gaming. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for quicker response times. So, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Splash Brothers would be the better choice. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt or lacking in depth. In that case, the Iceberg's longer travel distance would provide a more satisfying key press. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preferences and whether one values quicker response times or a more substantial typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is best described as clacky and high-pitched. This means that when pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it falls in the middle ground, neither too loud nor too quiet. The Iceberg switch offers a more distinctive and potentially louder sound, while the Splash Brothers switch provides a more moderate and balanced sound. It is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, overall, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Iceberg switch is a better choice, while if you prefer a more neutral sound, the Splash Brothers switch is the way to go.

In terms of feel, the Iceberg switch offers a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel. This is due to its two-stage spring, which adds to the typing experience and makes it feel more alive. It is also described as snappy, meaning that it is super responsive. Additionally, the Iceberg switch is feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and requires minimal finger exertion. This reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switch is described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It is also snappy and bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a lively feel. Additionally, it is subtle, offering a gentle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces. Finally, it is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. Overall, if you prefer a lighter and more feathery feel with a snappy response, the Iceberg switch is a good choice. If you prefer a more moderate and bouncy feel with a polished finish, the Splash Brothers switch is a great option.

In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg and Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iceberg switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound. Its feel is smooth, snappy, and feathery. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switch has a neutral sound profile, falling in the middle ground between high-pitched and low-pitched switches. Its feel is mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished. Both switches have their own unique qualities and cater to different preferences. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound with a lighter and more feathery feel, the Iceberg switch is a great choice. If you prefer a more moderate and balanced sound with a mildly bouncy feel and a polished finish, the Splash Brothers switch is an excellent option. However, it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, as they can also impact the overall sound and feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prefer a switch with a light bottom out force and a satisfying smoothness, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is a solid choice. It provides a fulfilling feel during typing thanks to its two-stage spring. Furthermore, the Iceberg switch is known for its snappy and feathery feel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. In terms of sound, the Iceberg switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a linear switch with a shorter activation and a great typing feel, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is worth considering. Its long pole stem adds to the typing experience, and you can expect a creamy sound signature from these switches. The Splash Brothers switch offers a mild and snappy feel, ensuring a gentle typing experience that will be approachable to most users. It also provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel.

In summary, if you prioritize a light and smooth feel with a snappy typing experience, go for the Aflion Iceberg linear switch. However, if you prefer a switch with a shorter activation and a mild, bouncy feel, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is a suitable option. Consider your personal preferences and typing requirements to make the best choice between these two switches.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

Jwick Splash Brothers Linear

$2.49 per 10

Learn more