Aflion Iceberg vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+

Overview

Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts often find themselves at a crossroads when choosing the perfect switches for their typing experience, particularly when comparing options like the Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS POM+. The Iceberg, a product from the relatively new Aflion brand, showcases the manufacturer’s commitment to quality with its smooth actuation and a unique two-stage spring that provides a satisfying tactile feel. Users often appreciate its “clacky” and “snappy” characteristics, making it a fun choice for those who enjoy a lively auditory feedback. On the other hand, the WS POM+ stands out with its all-POM construction, offering a deep, satisfying "thock" sound and an ultra-smooth keystroke that typists may find irresistible. While both switches excel in the realm of linear response, the Iceberg leans towards a more playful personality, while the WS POM+ embodies a more refined, solid experience. 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 POM+ Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$3.90 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, it becomes clear that each switch offers distinctly different auditory experiences due to their unique top housing materials. The Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile upon actuation. This transparency also makes it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch. In contrast, the WS POM+ utilizes a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. The properties of POM, while still resonant, create a sound that is less aggressive than that of polycarbonate, appealing to users who prefer a more subdued auditory feedback.

While the top housings differ significantly in their sonic characteristics, both switches feature the same material for the bottom housing: nylon in the Iceberg and POM in the WS POM+. Nylon is recognized for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience that emphasizes a softer bottom-out sound. On the other hand, POM, as used in the WS POM+, also provides a muted yet pleasing sound. This shared focus on creating a deeper sound profile means that both switches will deliver a rounder and richer auditory feedback. However, the specific qualities will differ, with the Iceberg yielding a fuller sound due to nylon's inherent absorption qualities.

Ultimately, the combined effect of both housings leads to a nuanced typing experience in both switches. The Iceberg's polycarbonate top emphasizes a more crisp sound during the release of the key, while its nylon bottom ensures a fuller bottom-out sensation. Conversely, the WS POM+ achieves a balance of its deeper sound through the consistent use of POM in both housings, leaning towards a more muted experience overall. Users may find that while each switch offers a different sound profile, they can achieve similar aesthetic results if RGB lighting is a priority, particularly with the Iceberg's transparent top housing. In this way, the distinct attributes of the two switches cater to different preferences while maintaining an engaging typing experience.

Weight

The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch present a comparison of actuation and bottom out forces that caters to different preferences in typing feel. The Iceberg features a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who favor a gentler touch and can type or game for extended periods without fatigue. In contrast, the WS POM+ switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which provides a more substantial feel when typing, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push. Consequently, the Iceberg is the lighter option overall, while the WS POM+ is heavier. Both switches deliver different tactile experiences, with the Iceberg facilitating a lighter and potentially less tiring typing experience, while the WS POM+ offers a medium-light experience that might resonate better with users seeking a firmer feedback sensation.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Iceberg features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is a traditional length that many users appreciate for its more substantial feel, providing a deeper keystroke that some might prefer for typing or gaming. In contrast, the WS POM+ has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to those who favor quicker response times often sought after in gaming environments. This shorter distance might feel more abrupt, which could be advantageous for rapid inputs but may not be suitable for everyone. Therefore, if you favor a deeper and more tactile feedback, the Aflion Iceberg is the better option. Conversely, if you're looking for enhanced responsiveness in your keystrokes, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ would be the ideal choice.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch produces a clacky and high-pitched auditory profile. This gives the switch a crisp, bright, and percussive sound, which can be particularly pleasing to the ears of those who appreciate a more lively typing experience. However, it’s important to remember that the overall sound output can vary significantly depending on the keyboard and keycap choice. In comparison, the WS POM+ switch features a deep and satisfying "thock" sound signature that appeals to enthusiasts looking for a richer auditory experience. The distinct differences in sound profiles will cater to varying preferences: Iceberg’s sharper tones versus the more resonant tones of the WS POM+.

The tactile feel of the Iceberg linear switch is characterized by a snappy and feathery touch, which promotes fast and responsive typing. This blend of qualities stems from its innovative dual-stage spring, allowing for a lively and engaging typing dynamic that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the WS POM+ linear switch is known for offering an unparalleled typing experience, though specific descriptors regarding its feel remain unspecified. This leaves a question regarding its tactile feedback, though it is likely that the smooth keystroke and overall construction provide a comfortable experience similar to the Iceberg switch.

In conclusion, while both the Aflion Iceberg and Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches present unique characteristics in sound and feel, they cater to different preferences. The Iceberg excels with its bright and percussive clack, combined with a snappy and light typing experience, making it perfect for users who enjoy a responsive feel. Alternatively, the WS POM+ offers a deep thock accompanied by a smooth keystroke, appealing to those who might favor a richer auditory sensation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a lively or a buttery typing experience, yet both can deliver satisfying results in their own rights.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a lighter switch that offers snappy responsiveness and a feathery feel, the Iceberg is an excellent option, especially for extended typing sessions where comfort and speed are paramount. Its clacky and high-pitched sound profile makes it ideal for users who enjoy a sharper auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a deeper, more satisfying "thock" sound and appreciate a slightly heavier switch, the WS POM+ with its medium-light bottom-out force is likely the better fit. This switch excels in delivering a richly rewarding typing experience that blends smooth keystrokes with a substantial feedback feeling, making it particularly suitable for users who take pleasure in the tactile sensation of each key press. Ultimately, the decision should align with what aspects you value more in your keyboard experience, whether that's the weight of the switch, the sound profile, or the overall typing feel.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS POM+ Linear

$3.90 per 10

Learn more