Aflion Iceberg vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Iceberg and the KTT Wine Red offer unique qualities that may appeal to different types of users. Aflion, although a relatively new switch manufacturer, has gained recognition for their Iceberg switches, which exemplify their commitment to quality. With a smooth and satisfying two-stage spring, these linear switches provide a fulfilling typing experience. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Iceberg switches offer a versatile range of qualities. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switches are beloved for their pillowy light feel and deep, rich sound profile, earning them the reputation of being intoxicating. Classified as 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched', these linear switches create a satisfying auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Iceberg and KTT Wine Red both make use of polycarbonate in their top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches offer a similar sound experience and aesthetic appeal due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Iceberg uses a nylon material while the Wine Red relies on polycarbonate. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, polycarbonate in the bottom housing of the Wine Red contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. This means that the Iceberg will offer a more muffled and rounded sound when bottoming out, while the Wine Red will provide a clearer and more resonant sound.
The difference in housing materials between the Iceberg and Wine Red also affects the feel of the switches. Pressing down on the switch will primarily showcase the qualities of the bottom housing. Therefore, the Iceberg with its nylon bottom housing will offer a softer and more cushioned feel when pressing down, resulting in a more subdued bottom-out sound. Conversely, the Wine Red with its polycarbonate bottom housing will deliver a firmer and snappier feel, resulting in a more pronounced bottom-out sound. However, the sound when releasing a key will be more influenced by the qualities of the top housing, which in both cases is polycarbonate, therefore resulting in a similar sound experience when letting go of a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, notable differences can be observed. The Iceberg switch boasts a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke with minimal effort. In contrast, the Wine Red switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 44 grams, providing a slightly more substantial push feel.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Iceberg switch requires 45 grams of force to fully bottom out, ensuring a gentle and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch applies a greater bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a slightly firmer typing sensation.
Considering weight for prolonged typing sessions or intense gaming, the Iceberg switch's lighter actuation and bottom out forces may be preferred by individuals who desire extended typing comfort. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the Wine Red switch, which has slightly heavier forces.
In summary, the Aflion Iceberg switch offers lighter actuation and bottom out forces, while the KTT Wine Red switch provides slightly heavier forces for typing. This distinction allows users to choose based on their preference for a lighter or stronger typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance traveled for both switches. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches. Neither one is shorter or longer than the other as they both have the same 4 mm travel distance.
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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 per 10 switches.
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 is known for producing a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. When pressed, these switches emit a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. This sound profile may appeal to those who prefer a more distinct and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch does not have a specific description of its sound qualities. However, based on the description of being "bassy" and "low-pitched," it can be inferred that these switches offer a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. This sound is characterized by a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. If you prefer a keyboard switch with a more resonant and bass-heavy sound, the Wine Red may be a suitable choice for you.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch provides a satisfying and fulfilling typing experience. It is described as both snappy and feathery, offering a combination of responsiveness and lightness. The longer or dual-staged springs in these switches contribute to their snappy feel, making the typing experience feel more alive. Additionally, the feathery nature of the Iceberg switches means they are exceptionally light to press, requiring minimal finger exertion. This reduces finger fatigue and makes the switches comfortable for extended typing sessions. Moreover, these switches have a subtle resistance, providing a light typing feel without being feather-like. The sound signature of the Iceberg switches is also described as not resonant, making them suitable for shared spaces. Unfortunately, the description of the KTT Wine Red linear switch does not provide any information about its feel qualities.
In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, making them suitable for those who enjoy a sharp and crisp typing sound. They also offer a snappy and feathery feel, providing a responsive and light typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch has a bassy and low-pitched sound profile that offers a deeper and richer typing sound. However, the feel qualities of the Wine Red switch are unknown. If you prefer a similar sound profile to the Iceberg switch with a yet unknown feel, the Wine Red may still provide satisfactory results in terms of sound. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities, and the best choice depends on individual preferences for sound and potentially feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and smooth linear switch, the Iceberg from Aflion would be a great choice. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, it offers a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with its two-stage spring mechanism. Additionally, the Iceberg switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle in feel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions while reducing finger fatigue. In terms of sound, the Iceberg produces a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and bright typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a deeper and richer sound profile, the Wine Red from KTT is worth considering. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, it offers a pillowy light typing feel and a satisfyingly deep sound. While the available descriptions for the Wine Red's feel are not provided, its sound profile is described as bassy and low-pitched, which may be appealing if you prefer a more mellow and bass-heavy typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Iceberg and Wine Red depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prioritize a light and smooth typing experience with a crisp and bright sound, the Iceberg would be a great fit. Alternatively, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a deeper and richer sound, the Wine Red could be the right choice for you. Consider your typing preferences and requirements before making a decision between these two switches.
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