Aflion Iceberg vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile are two excellent options that offer unique features and benefits. The Iceberg, produced by the relatively new switch manufacturer Aflion, is widely recognized for its exceptional quality. With a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel thanks to its two-stage spring, the Iceberg provides a clacky, high-pitched, and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switches by Wuque are perfect for office and work environments. These switches strike a delicate balance, offering a medium level of tactility while minimizing noise. With ingenious stem railings and no silicone dampeners, the WS Silent Tactile switches provide a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return, ensuring an unrivaled blend of tranquility and tactility. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile differ in their housing materials, with the Iceberg featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the WS Silent Tactile utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Iceberg creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which is ideal for those who prefer a more distinct and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Tactile produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a more mellow and rounded typing sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Iceberg is translucent, allowing for stunning RGB lighting effects. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize visual appeal and prefer to enhance their typing experience with colorful lighting. Conversely, the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Tactile does not possess this translucency, resulting in a more subdued appearance.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches share the same material, nylon. This choice of material in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out the keys, providing a satisfying and immersive typing experience. As such, both the Iceberg and the WS Silent Tactile offer similar results when it comes to their bottom housings, enhancing the overall sound and feel of the switches.
In conclusion, while the Iceberg and the WS Silent Tactile differ in their top housing materials, with the Iceberg featuring polycarbonate and the WS Silent Tactile utilizing nylon, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Iceberg provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, with the added advantage of translucency for RGB lighting enthusiasts. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Tactile elicits a deeper and fuller sound, without the visual appeal of translucent housing. However, both switches offer a similar sound and feel thanks to their nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a pleasing bottom-out experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, aesthetics, and the desire for RGB lighting effects.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Iceberg switch has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, making it easy to trigger keystrokes with a gentle touch. It also has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which means that there is a slightly heavier resistance when fully pressing the keys.
In contrast, the actuation force of the WS Silent Tactile switch is unavailable, so it is difficult to directly compare it with the Iceberg switch. However, the bottom out force of the WS Silent Tactile switch is 63.5 grams, indicating a medium-heavy resistance when fully pressing the keys. This suggests that the WS Silent Tactile switch may require a slightly stronger push to trigger keystrokes compared to the Iceberg switch.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Iceberg switch, as its actuation force and bottom out force are relatively lower. This lighter feel allows for longer typing sessions, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the WS Silent Tactile switch, as its higher bottom out force may provide a stronger push feel.
In summary, the Iceberg linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force, while the WS Silent Tactile tactile switch has a medium-heavy bottom out force. The differences in force between the two switches cater to individual preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered more traditional, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the WS Silent Tactile switch more suitable for those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, particularly popular among gamers. On the other hand, the Iceberg switch with its longer travel distance may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial and satisfying keystroke depth. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and whether one prioritizes speed or depth in their typing experience. In either case, both switches offer distinct travel distances that cater to different user preferences.
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 Silent 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
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch is best known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch has a neutral sound profile that is muted and softer compared to regular switches. It minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The choice of board and keycaps will also affect the sound produced by the switches.
In terms of feel, the Iceberg switch provides a snappy and feathery typing experience. It is super responsive, thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs. This switch feels light to press, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Iceberg switch offers a subtle resistance and a sound signature that is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch is described as accented, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, resulting in an invigorating typing sensation. It provides a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users, standing in a safe middle-ground zone.
Taking all the available information into account, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is recommended for those seeking a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, along with a snappy and feathery typing feel. It is a great option for those who prefer a more responsive and light typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch offers a neutral and muted sound profile, suitable for environments where noise reduction is important. It provides an invigorating and mildly tactile typing feel. Both switches have their unique qualities and are excellent choices depending on individual preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch will depend on your specific preferences and requirements. If you prioritize a lighter and smoother typing experience with a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out, the Iceberg switches are an excellent choice. These switches offer a snappy and feathery feel, reducing finger fatigue and providing a comfortable typing experience for extended periods of use. Furthermore, if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Iceberg switches will deliver an audible feedback that enhances your typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a more balanced approach that combines moderate tactility with noise reduction, the WS Silent Tactile switches are a perfect companion, especially in office and work environments. These switches strike a delicate balance, offering a medium level of tactility without compromising on noise reduction. Crafted with precision, the WS Silent Tactile switches provide an invigorating and mild typing experience, offering pronounced feedback and a reactive feel. The absence of silicone dampeners ensures a typing experience free from the padded feel typically associated with silent switches, creating an unparalleled blend of tranquility and tactility.
In summary, if you value a lighter, smoother, and more audibly satisfying typing experience, the Aflion Iceberg linear switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize a well-balanced typing experience that merges moderate tactility with noise reduction, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches are an ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
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