Aflion Iceberg vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, it becomes apparent that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Iceberg from Aflion, a newcomer in the switch manufacturing industry, boasts a smooth profile and a fulfilling feel due to its two-stage spring mechanism. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Iceberg switch excels in providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch from Wuque Studio is known for its smoothness, snappy tactile bump, and a neutral sound signature. Categorized as 'Stepped', 'Neutral', and 'Easy-to-press', this switch provides tactile feedback without compromising on ease of use. Both switches have their merits, catering to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the keyboard. In terms of sound and feel, users can expect a similar experience with both switches due to their shared polycarbonate top housing material.
On the other hand, the Iceberg and the WS Light Tactile differ in their bottom housing material. The Iceberg utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches demonstrates a preference for this classic switch housing material in enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile results in a well-rounded typing experience for users. While the top housings influence the sound profile when pressing and releasing keys, the bottom housings play a significant role in the overall feel and sound when bottoming out keys. Both switches offer unique characteristics due to the different housing materials used, catering to different preferences in sound and feel for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile's 45 grams. Both switches have relatively light bottom out forces, with the Iceberg requiring 45 grams and the WS Light Tactile needing 50 grams. This means that the Iceberg switch is lighter overall, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile provides a slightly heavier actuation force, which may appeal to users looking for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will have a similar tactile experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. As a result, users can expect consistent feedback and performance when using either switch.
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 Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switches are known for their clacky and high-pitched characteristics, providing a sharp and snappy sound profile that can be described as crisp and bright. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switches offer a neutral sound signature, making them suitable for various environments and preferences. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Iceberg linear switches are praised for their snappy and feathery qualities, offering a responsive typing experience with a satisfying tactile feedback. Additionally, the subtle resistance of these switches makes them suitable for shared spaces where a quieter typing experience is desired. Conversely, the WS Light Tactile tactile switches provide a stepped and easy-to-press feel, offering a more subdued tactile bump compared to hyper-tactile switches. This allows for a smoother typing experience with minimal finger fatigue during extended use.
Overall, while the Aflion Iceberg linear switches and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switches differ in sound and feel, they both offer exceptional qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. Whether you prefer a sharper and more pronounced sound like the Iceberg switches or a neutral and smooth typing experience like the WS Light Tactile switches, both options provide reliable and satisfying performance for a variety of users. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth typing experience with a fulfilling feel, the Iceberg linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a snappy tactile bump, a neutral sound signature, and easy-to-press switches with a mild tactile feel, the WS Light Tactile tactile switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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