Aflion Iceberg vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl, both linear switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Aflion Iceberg, representing the craftsmanship of a relatively new manufacturer, is celebrated for its satisfying smoothness and fulfilling feel, aided by a two-stage spring mechanism. This switch produces a clacky, high-pitched sound, which can be invigorating for users who enjoy audible feedback during typing or gaming. On the other hand, the WS Pearl takes a distinctive approach by incorporating ball-bearings to minimize friction in keystrokes, resulting in an incredibly smooth typing experience. This switch delivers a medium-high pitched sound that is notably different from the Iceberg, appealing to those who prioritize a whisper-quiet yet responsive feel. Both switches have their merits, whether you’re drawn to the Aflion Iceberg’s lively feedback or the seamless glide of the WS Pearl. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl showcase a notable contrast in their top housing materials, with the Iceberg featuring a polycarbonate top and the WS Pearl utilizing nylon. The polycarbonate housing of the Iceberg is engineered to produce a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its inherent stiffness, which enhances resonance and clarity in auditory feedback. In contrast, the WS Pearl's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile by virtue of its softer material, which absorbs sound vibrations and results in a more muted auditory experience. This fundamental difference in material significantly influences the overall typing experience and sound output of each switch, highlighting how the choice of housing material can yield distinct auditory characteristics.
In terms of bottom housing, however, both the Iceberg and WS Pearl utilize nylon, creating a noteworthy similarity despite their differences in top housing. The nylon used in both switches contributes to a deeper, rounder sound profile, as it effectively absorbs sound and reduces resonance compared to harder plastics. This commonality means that when typing with either switch, users can expect a similar sound quality stemming from the bottom housing. The impact of the nylon bottom housing plays a crucial role in shaping the bottom-out sound and overall feel, making it a consistent element in both switches that grounds their auditory characteristics.
Ultimately, the combination of differing top housing materials and matching bottom housings influences the overall sound experience when typing on the Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl. While the Iceberg's polycarbonate top lends itself to a brighter, more resonant sound, the WS Pearl's nylon top offers a warmer, more subdued experience. Nevertheless, both switches benefit from the nylon bottom housing's ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, illustrating how the interplay of different materials can lead to nuanced yet distinct sound performances in mechanical switches. Thus, while there are clear contrasts in the top structures, the incorporation of nylon at the bottom provides a harmonious quality that enhances user experiences in both models.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces reveal their unique characteristics. The Iceberg has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option that may appeal to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially during long sessions. In contrast, the WS Pearl features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, which may provide a more substantial feel when the key is fully pressed down. Consequently, the Pearl switch is suitable for those who enjoy a firmer feedback while typing. Therefore, while the actuation force of the Pearl is lighter, its bottom out requirement is significantly higher than that of the Iceberg, catering to different preferences in tactile experience and typing dynamics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, there is a clear distinction. The Iceberg features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Pearl has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference suggests that the Iceberg offers a more traditional feel, which might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress and a pronounced tactile experience. In contrast, the WS Pearl's 3.5 mm travel distance caters to gamers and those who favor faster response times, as the shorter distance allows for quicker activation. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness, the WS Pearl would be the better choice, while the Iceberg would be ideal for those who appreciate more depth in their keystrokes. Thus, the Aflion Iceberg is the longer switch at 4 mm, and the WS Pearl is the shorter switch at 3.5 mm.
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 Pearl comes in at $6.00 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 considering the sound profile of the Aflion Iceberg switches, users can expect a distinctive clacky characteristic that produces a sharp, bright, and percussive noise with every keystroke. This high-pitched sound can be especially appealing for those who enjoy a more vibrant auditory feedback during typing. In contrast, the WS Pearl switch lacks a detailed sound description, making it difficult to directly compare its auditory qualities. However, because the sound of a switch can significantly depend on the keyboard design and materials used, users may still achieve a satisfying sound experience with either option by carefully selecting their keyboards and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Iceberg switches shine with their responsive snappiness, lightweight feathery touch, and subtle resistance, making them ideal for extended use whether for gaming, work, or casual typing. The dual-stage spring contributes to a fulfilling typing experience, offering a balance of responsiveness and lightness. On the other hand, the WS Pearl switches offer a unique tactile experience due to their inclusion of ball bearings, which significantly reduce friction and contribute to an exceptionally smooth keystroke. However, since the specific descriptors for the feel of the WS Pearl are not provided, it’s challenging to establish direct comparisons in tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Iceberg switches are celebrated for their clacky sound and engaging feel, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches are recognized for their unique smoothness thanks to ball-bearing technology, yet their sound and tactile qualities remain undefined. Potential keyboard enthusiasts may prefer the Iceberg for its reliable auditory feedback and light, responsive feel, while the WS Pearl may offer an interesting alternative focused on smooth keystrokes. Ultimately, users will find both switches can deliver enjoyable typing experiences, but personal preference regarding sound and tactile feedback will play a crucial role in their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch ultimately hinges on your individual preferences and typing needs. If you find joy in a lighter actuation force that allows for rapid, effortless keystrokes, the Iceberg's 45-gram bottom out force will likely appeal to you. Its clacky, high-pitched sound profile combined with the snappy and feathery feel makes it an excellent choice for those who favor quick, lively typing or gaming sessions, especially in solitary environments or where the sound isn't disruptive. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more robust typing experience that balances smoothness with a touch of resistance, then the WS Pearl may be better suited for you. With a medium bottom out force of 58 grams and its unique ball-bearing mechanism, it offers a surreal smoothness that caters to those who prioritize both tactile feedback and auditory pleasure, especially for longer typing sessions or if you prefer a typing sound that’s not overly invasive. Ultimately, consider how each switch's characteristics align with your personal preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
