Aflion Iceberg vs. Gazzew U4T

Overview

Introducing two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Iceberg and the Gazzew U4T. These switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. Aflion's Iceberg, though relatively new, showcases the exceptional quality that the company is known for. With its smoothness and fulfilling feel, thanks to its two-stage spring, the Iceberg is a linear switch that provides a satisfying typing experience. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Iceberg offers a range of characteristics suited for various typing needs. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is renowned for its harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. With a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback, the U4T brings auditory and tactile satisfaction to every keystroke. Categorized as 'Bassy', 'Thocky', and 'Sharp', these tactile switches provide a different typing experience compared to the Iceberg. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Iceberg Linear

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Gazzew U4T switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles. The Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more resonant sound. On the other hand, the U4T utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing known as "boba plastic." This unique blend delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, they are different in terms of their pitch and depth.

In terms of the bottom housings, the Iceberg utilizes a nylon material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softness allows for a more absorbent quality, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Comparatively, the U4T also utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, which shares similarities with the top housing material. Known for its softness, this boba plastic contributes to a rich and deep sound profile. Both bottom housings offer a softer typing experience with a focus on sound depth and absorption.

Although their housing materials differ, it's important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housings of a switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. While the Iceberg and U4T may have contrasting housing materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying and unique sound experience, each with its own distinctive characteristics.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, the differences are quite apparent. The Iceberg has a lighter touch, with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes it ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. The U4T, on the other hand, has an unknown actuation force, but it does have a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. For those who enjoy a stronger push feel, the U4T is a better option. Overall, the Iceberg is the lighter of the two switches, while the U4T offers a heavier force. It is important to consider one's personal preference and typing needs when choosing between the two.

Travel distance

The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile experience when using both switches. Both switches offer a comfortable and consistent travel distance for typing or gaming purposes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Iceberg linear switch from Aflion is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile. The sharp and snappy sound it produces when pressed adds a crisp and bright element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offers a bassy 'thock' sound profile. The deeper and richer sound produced by the U4T creates a satisfying auditory experience, resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. It is important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Despite their different sound profiles, both switches offer auditory satisfaction, delivering unique experiences depending on personal preferences.

In terms of feel, the Iceberg linear switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle. The longer or dual-staged springs in this switch contribute to a super responsive typing experience, making every keystroke feel alive. Additionally, the feathery nature of the switch allows for easy and light presses, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. This makes it suitable for activities like gaming, school, or work. The subtle resistance of the Iceberg switch provides a gentle and light typing feel, and its sound signature remains non-resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces.

On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback. The intense and crisp tactile bump of the U4T ensures that each keypress is distinctly felt. The switch offers a satisfying tactile response that enhances the typing experience, providing both physical and auditory satisfaction.

Overall, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch provide unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a satisfying smoothness and fulfilling feel, the Iceberg switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bassy 'thock' sound profile with sharp tactile feedback, the U4T switch offers a harmonious fusion of thockiness and tactility. It's important to consider personal preferences and specific use cases when choosing between these switches. It's worth noting that while these switches differ in certain qualities, they both offer a level of satisfaction and performance that would be pleasing to any newcomer to the mechanical keyboard world.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a smooth and fulfilling typing experience with a relatively light bottom out force, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. Its snappy and feathery feel, paired with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, creates a responsive and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a bassy and thocky sound profile along with strong and crisp tactile feedback, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch would be the perfect fit. With a slightly higher bottom out force, the U4T offers a sharp and intense tactile bump that adds satisfaction to every keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the Iceberg and U4T switches comes down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound. Consider your typing style and the overall experience you desire when making your choice.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more