Aflion Iceberg vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Iceberg and Wuque Studio WS Brown are two intriguing mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and characteristics. The Iceberg, produced by the relatively new switch manufacturer Aflion, is highly regarded for its exceptional smoothness and satisfying feel, thanks to its two-stage spring. Classified as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', this linear switch provides a distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Brown switch from Wuque Studio is known for its elegant blend of familiarity and innovation. With a medium-light actuation force, these tactile switches strike a perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort, ensuring fatigue-free typing during long sessions. Moreover, typing on WS Brown switches offers a delightful auditory experience cherished by enthusiasts due to its familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination. 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
N/A
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
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Brown have notable differences and similarities. Starting with the top housing, the Iceberg utilizes polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the WS Brown utilizes nylon in its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite their differences in sound qualities, both materials offer distinct advantages. Polycarbonate's translucency allows for superior RGB lighting effects, while nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound.
Moving onto the bottom housing, both the Iceberg and WS Brown utilize nylon, which is known as a classic switch housing material. As a result, they share the characteristic of eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's properties of being a relatively softer plastic and absorbing more sound contribute to the similar sound outcomes of these two keyboards. Therefore, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound when using the bottom housings of either the Iceberg or WS Brown.
When considering the overall impact on the typing experience, the qualities brought by the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that the Iceberg's nylon bottom housing and the WS Brown's nylon bottom housing share similarities in terms of providing a deep and full sound profile upon pressing. However, when releasing a key, the top housing takes precedence in determining the sound produced. Therefore, the Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing and the WS Brown's nylon top housing will result in different sound profiles when keys are released.
In summary, the housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Brown keyboards offer distinct sound profiles and characteristics. Polycarbonate used in the Iceberg's top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while nylon used in the WS Brown's top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Both keyboards share the use of nylon in their bottom housings, resulting in a consistent deep and full sound when keys are pressed. However, the choice of top housing material will affect the sound produced upon key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Iceberg has a lighter touch. The Iceberg requires an actuation force of 37 grams, which is relatively light, while the WS Brown's actuation force is unknown. However, in terms of the bottom out force, the Iceberg requires 45 grams, which is still on the lighter side. On the other hand, the WS Brown has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch.
Considering the weight difference, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Iceberg, as it allows for longer typing sessions and is suitable for extended periods of work or gaming. On the contrary, those who enjoy a more substantial and responsive feel while typing may find the WS Brown more appealing due to its heavier bottom out force.
Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of the switches differ slightly, with the Iceberg being lighter in both categories. However, since the actuation force of the WS Brown is unknown, we cannot make a direct comparison. Nevertheless, individuals seeking similar results may opt for the Iceberg if they prefer a lighter touch, while those desiring a heavier typing experience might find the slightly heavier bottom out force of the WS Brown to be more suitable.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, we can see that the Iceberg has a travel distance of 4mm while the WS Brown has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8mm. Both switches offer a relatively traditional travel distance, with the Iceberg being slightly longer and the WS Brown slightly shorter.
For those who value faster response times, the WS Brown with its shorter travel distance may be the preferred option. Gamers, for example, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows them to quickly actuate the keys, resulting in quicker response times during gameplay. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt or lacking in depth. For those who prefer a more substantial feeling when pressing down on the keys, the Iceberg with its 4mm travel distance may be the better choice.
Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience. Both switches offer unique advantages, and while the Iceberg has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the WS Brown, they both provide similar results in terms of functionality and overall typing experience.
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 Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50 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 its clacky and high-pitched sound profile. When pressed, these switches produce a crisp, bright, and percussive sound that enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, there is no available information about the sound profile of the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is not solely determined by the switch itself, but also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is described as snappy and feathery. These switches are super responsive, thanks to their longer or dual-staged springs, providing a lively typing experience. Additionally, they have a light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue and making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch does not have any available information regarding its feel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, as well as its snappy and feathery feel. On the other hand, there is limited information available about the sound and feel of the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch. While the Iceberg linear switch provides a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel, the WS Brown switch is described as a harmonious blend of familiarity and innovation, offering a medium-light actuation force for a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Though further information on the WS Brown switch is unknown, based on the available information, it is expected to provide a familiar and delightful auditory experience like the Iceberg. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a lighter switch with a satisfying smoothness and a unique two-stage spring for a fulfilling feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is a great choice. It has a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it light and easy on your fingers. The Iceberg switch is best known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Additionally, the Iceberg switch is described as snappy and feathery, offering a super responsive and comfortable typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch that strikes a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, the WS Brown switch provides a familiar and delightful auditory experience due to its nylon housing and POM stem combination. Though the sound profile of the WS Brown switch is not explicitly described, it is known for its familiarity and a pleasant typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Iceberg and Wuque Studio WS Brown switches depends on your personal preferences. If you value a lighter and more responsive typing experience with a unique two-stage spring, go for the Iceberg switch. However, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a harmonious balance between comfort and responsiveness, the WS Brown switch is the better choice. Regardless of your preference, both switches offer high-quality options for mechanical keyboards. In the end, it's all about finding the switch that suits your typing style and brings you the most enjoyment.