Aflion Iceberg vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Iceberg and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) are both excellent options to consider. The Aflion Iceberg, a linear switch, boasts a smoothness and a fulfilling feel thanks to its two-stage spring design. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), also a linear switch, offers resonant and clacky notes along with an impeccable factory lube job for a silky smooth typing experience. While the Iceberg is known for its high-pitched and snappy qualities, the Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out with its clacky and silky characteristics. 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
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) differ in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is duller and rounder compared to harder plastics. While the top housings differ in material, both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
The choice of housing materials in the Aflion Iceberg and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) impacts the overall sound profile of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Iceberg creates a sharper and more resonant sound, while the POM top housing of the Strawberry Wine (V2) produces a deeper and more pleasing sound. In terms of bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, resulting in a fuller sound profile that is absorbed more than harder plastics, creating a rounder sound. Despite the differences in top housing material, the nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience with a deeper sound profile for both switches.
The combination of different housing materials in the Aflion Iceberg and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) contributes to a unique typing experience for users. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance in sound profile and feel when typing on these switches. The impact of the bottom housing is more prominent during key presses, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater effect on the sound when keys are released. Overall, the choice of housing materials in these switches plays a significant role in shaping the typing experience, with each material bringing its own qualities to the sound profile and feel of the switch.
Weight
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a light typing experience overall, making them suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. The difference in force between the two switches may be subtle, but it can impact the overall typing feel for those who prefer a slightly heavier or lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, we see that the Iceberg has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Strawberry Wine's 3.4 mm distance. Both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance, which can be beneficial for gamers seeking faster response times. The Iceberg's 4 mm travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a longer keystroke, while the Strawberry Wine's 3.4 mm travel distance offers a slightly shallower press for those who prefer quicker input. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific feel each user is seeking in a switch.
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 Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch is known for its high-pitched and clacky sound profile, offering a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch produces a sound that is also clacky but additionally resonant, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. When it comes to feel, the Iceberg switch is described as snappy and feathery, giving a lively typing experience with a fulfilling feel. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is known for its silky smooth feel, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. Overall, while both switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics, the Iceberg leans towards a sharper and snappier typing experience, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a smoother and more satisfying feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether the user prefers a sharp and percussive typing experience or a smooth and silky one.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Iceberg linear switch or the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in sound and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a smooth and fulfilling typing experience, the Aflion Iceberg switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly higher bottom out force with resonant and clacky sound notes, along with impeccable factory lube job for a silky smooth typing experience, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your typing preferences and priorities when making your decision between these two excellent linear switches.
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