Aflion Iceberg vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Iceberg and the Bsun Taichi stand out as excellent linear options that cater to different preferences, each offering a unique typing experience. The Iceberg, produced by the relatively new switch manufacturer Aflion, is celebrated for its smooth operation and satisfying feel, thanks to its two-stage spring mechanism that provides a responsive yet plush keystroke. This switch is marked by its clacky, high-pitched, and snappy characteristics, appealing to those who enjoy a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi invites users to experience a more nuanced feel, thanks to its long-pole stem and extended spring design that promise exceptional smoothness and stability. While it boasts a captivating high-pitched bottom-out sound, this switch may appeal more to enthusiasts who prioritize sound and tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct advantages for different typing styles and preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Iceberg and the Bsun Taichi utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in striking similarities in the auditory experience they offer. The choice of polycarbonate contributes significantly to both switches having a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the inherent stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a clearer and more resonant sound when the keys are engaged and released. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances their aesthetic appeal, especially when RGB lighting is utilized. Thus, users can expect a visually engaging experience alongside a crisp auditory performance when using either switch.
Conversely, the bottom housing of the Iceberg and Taichi are constructed from nylon, which contrasts in character to the top housing material. Nylon is known for its softer properties, instilling a deeper and fuller sound profile as it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics like polycarbonate. This characteristic allows for a rounder, more muted bottom-out sound when keys are fully pressed down. Consequently, the nylon bottom housing of both switches leads to a noticeable difference in the feel and auditory experience, especially during typing sessions where the sound absorption properties of nylon come into play. As a result, despite the similarities in the top housings, the switches will convey distinct sound profiles during different phases of key engagement.
Overall, while both the Aflion Iceberg and Bsun Taichi share similar materials for their top and bottom housings—polycarbonate on top and nylon at the bottom—the contrasting properties of these materials create a nuanced experience for users. The polycarbonate top contributes to the escapade's sharpness during release, while the nylon base ensures a richer depth upon actuation. Expect an interaction where the resonance is defined by the top while the impact is rounded by the bottom. Therefore, each switch maintains a cohesive sound experience that merges crispness and fullness, making them appealing options for users seeking auditory differentiation in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation force. The Iceberg features a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Taichi switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams, appealing to users who favor a more substantial push feel. However, while the Iceberg has a bottom out force of 45 grams, the bottom out force for the Taichi remains unknown, preventing a direct comparison in that regard. Overall, the Aflion Iceberg is the lighter option, while the Bsun Taichi is the heavier choice, which can influence user preference based on typing style and experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Taichi linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Iceberg switch provides a more pronounced keypress feel, which some users may prefer for its hearty depth and tactile feedback. In contrast, the Taichi's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers and users looking for quicker response times, as it facilitates rapid key presses. Overall, the difference in travel distance highlights a key distinction between the two switches: the Iceberg is designed for those who appreciate a more traditional and deeper pressing experience, whereas the Taichi caters to those who favor a snappier and more responsive feel.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 linear switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched tone, producing a sharp and snappy sound that can make typing feel lively and engaging. This sound profile can appeal to those who prefer a more vibrant auditory feedback, as it encompasses a crisp, bright quality that stands out from the deeper tones of traditional switches. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switch doesn't have a defined sound profile shared in the information, which leaves its auditory characteristics unknown. However, it is essential to note that the final sound of both switches can be influenced by the keyboard they are mounted on and the type of keycaps used, potentially leading to different experiences.
Regarding the feel, the Iceberg switch shines with its snappy responsiveness, thanks to the dual-stage spring that enhances the overall typing experience and provides a satisfying tactile engagement. Additionally, it showcases a feathery touch, demanding little exertion from your fingers, making it ideal for long typing sessions without fatigue. The subtle resistance adds to its versatility, ensuring a gentle yet fulfilling experience. Unfortunately, there are no explicitly defined tactile qualities provided for the Taichi switch, leaving its feel characteristics a mystery. This absence makes it difficult to compare directly, but it could suggest that its feel may differ significantly from the Iceberg's notable attributes.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offers a distinct sound and an engaging feel, the Bsun Taichi linear switch remains somewhat enigmatic, particularly regarding its auditory and tactile properties. If you gravitate towards a vibrant and responsive typing experience, the Iceberg is clearly a strong option, whereas the undefined qualities of the Taichi suggest that it may either provide a different experience or simply be less well-marked in terms of sound and feel. Depending on what you value in your typing experience, either switch could serve your needs effectively, but the Iceberg offers a more defined and appealing profile based on the available information.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Aflion Iceberg and the Bsun Taichi linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. The Iceberg switch, with its light 45-gram bottom-out force, offers a snappy and feathery feel that can minimize finger fatigue, making it an excellent choice for extended typing sessions, whether for gaming, school, or work. If you prefer a vibrant typing experience that features a crisp, high-pitched, and clacky sound, the Iceberg will provide that auditory excitement while also delivering a smooth feel due to its two-stage spring design. On the other hand, if you are looking to experience a switch that emphasizes stability and a distinctive sound profile with a unique high-pitched bottom-out, the Taichi may be your go-to choice. The Taichi's long-pole stem and extended springs contribute to its smooth performance, ideal for those who appreciate a more refined sound and responsiveness. Ultimately, if you are seeking a light and energetic typing experience, the Iceberg is the way to go, while the Taichi might better cater to your preferences for sound and stability in your setup.
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