Aflion Iceberg vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are many options to choose from, each offering its unique characteristics. Two popular choices for switch enthusiasts are the Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile. The Iceberg switches, produced by the relatively new switch manufacturer Aflion, are known for their smoothness and fulfilling feel due to the two-stage spring. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', these switches offer a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches are a remarkable addition to the esteemed WS series. With a profound tactile bump and a tactile force of 70g, each keystroke provides satisfying resistance, making typing an engaging journey. Categorized as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Invigorating', 'Resonant', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', these switches also offer a captivating sound profile with a "thocky" resonance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Iceberg Linear

Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile Tactile

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$3.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for a clearer and more resonant sound. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Iceberg and the WS Heavy Tactile employ nylon in this component. As a classic switch housing material, nylon brings similar qualities to both switches. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the material's ability to absorb more sound. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, showcasing the impact of nylon in providing a satisfying typing experience.

In summary, the Aflion Iceberg offers a combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings. The differences in these materials result in distinct sound profiles, with polycarbonate producing a sharper and crisper sound, and nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound. However, the similarity in using nylon for the bottom housing ensures both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with a pronounced bottom-out sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Iceberg has an actuation force of 37 grams, which indicates that a relatively light touch is required to trigger a keystroke. In comparison, the actuation force of the WS Heavy Tactile is unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 45 grams, suggesting that they provide a similar level of resistance when fully pressed down.

The difference in actuation force between the Iceberg and WS Heavy Tactile may be significant for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Iceberg's lower actuation force allows for longer typing periods without fatigue, making it an ideal choice for those who use their keyboards extensively for work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch potentially offers a stronger push feel due to its unknown actuation force. This might suit individuals who prefer a more substantial and satisfying typing experience.

However, it is worth noting that since both switches share the same bottom out force of 45 grams, users can expect a consistent tactile feedback and resistance when fully pressing down on the keys. Therefore, even though the actuation force of the WS Heavy Tactile switch is unknown, it is likely to yield similar results in terms of overall typing experience as the Iceberg, as long as the bottom out force is the same.

In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch provides a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the actuation force of the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is unknown, but also has a bottom out force of 45 grams. These differences in actuation force highlight the varying preferences of users who either lean towards a lighter touch for extended typing or a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience.

Travel distance

The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch have different travel distances. The Iceberg has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is a more traditional length, providing a balanced feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the WS Heavy Tactile allows for quicker keystrokes, ideal for competitive gaming. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, preferring a switch with a longer travel distance like the Iceberg. The longer travel distance provides a more satisfying depth when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired level of responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch can be described as clacky and high-pitched. This means that they produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, with a bright and percussive quality. However, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers an additional sound profile descriptor of being resonant, which suggests a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Iceberg switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle. The snappy characteristic indicates that it is super responsive, thanks to its two-stage spring mechanism. The feathery feel implies that it requires little exertion from the fingers, reducing fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the subtle resistance and non-resonant sound signature make it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers descriptors such as accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy. These qualities suggest a pronounced tactile bump, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive and immersive typing sensation. This switch provides a prominent amount of tactility without overwhelming or being subtle.

In conclusion, both the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offer satisfying qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both have clacky and high-pitched sound profiles. The Iceberg switch provides a smooth and fulfilling feel, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a profound and pronounced tactile experience. While the Iceberg switch focuses on smoothness and lightness, the WS Heavy Tactile switch emphasizes a prominent tactility and a snappy and reactive feel. Depending on personal preferences, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel, but with slight variations in the specific qualities emphasized by each switch.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter keypress and a smoother typing experience, the Iceberg may be the better choice for you. With its light bottom out force of 45 grams and satisfying smoothness, it offers a feathery and subtle feel that is comfortable for extended typing sessions.

On the other hand, if you crave a more pronounced tactile bump and a satisfying resistance with each keystroke, the WS Heavy Tactile is the switch for you. With a tactile force of 70 grams, these switches provide an invigorating and sharp typing experience. Additionally, the Wuque Heavy Tactile Switches offer a captivating sound profile with a "thocky" resonance, adding to the immersive journey of each keystroke.

Both switches offer clacky and high-pitched sound profiles, but the WS Heavy Tactile also provides a resonant sound experience. Therefore, if you are seeking a cleaner and sharper sound profile, the WS Heavy Tactile might be your preferred choice.

In the end, the decision between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch depends on factors such as your desired keypress weight, typing style, and preferred sound profile. Consider these factors and choose the switch that aligns best with your individual needs and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile Tactile

$3.50 per 10

Learn more