HMX EMO vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO and the Aflion Iceberg mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The HMX EMO switch stands out for its lively and clacky feel, with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch from the relatively new switch manufacturer Aflion offers a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel due to its two-stage spring design. While the EMO switch is known for its smooth and satisfying typing experience, the Iceberg switch is praised for its clacky, high-pitched, snappy, feathery, and subtle characteristics. 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
40g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and the Aflion Iceberg both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches with RGB lighting. However, while they both share the same material for the top housing, the design and construction may vary, leading to slight differences in sound and performance.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the HMX EMO and the Aflion Iceberg provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in housing material for the bottom part of the switch can impact the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Even though both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, minor variations in design and construction could still affect the typing experience.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the top and bottom components of the switches highlights how various factors contribute to the sound and feel of typing. While both the HMX EMO and the Aflion Iceberg feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile and nylon bottom housings for a deeper sound, the specific design and construction of each switch can lead to subtle differences in performance. Understanding how each housing material impacts the typing experience can help users choose the switch that best suits their preferences and needs.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch are quite similar. Both switches have relatively light actuation forces, with the EMO requiring 40 grams and the Iceberg requiring 37 grams. The bottom out forces are also close, with the EMO needing 46 grams and the Iceberg needing 45 grams. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of force with either switch. The lighter actuation force of the Iceberg may appeal to those looking for a slightly lighter touch, while the slightly heavier actuation force of the EMO may provide a bit more feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer a balance between actuation force and bottom out force, catering to different typing preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch have different travel distances, with the EMO having a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Iceberg's 4 mm. The EMO's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Iceberg's longer travel distance could be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 HMX EMO comes in at $3.49 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 HMX EMO switch offers a clacky and lively typing experience, while the Aflion Iceberg switch provides a high-pitched and sharp sound profile. The EMO switch delivers a crisp and percussive sound with its factory-lubed mechanism, creating a satisfying typing experience for users who enjoy a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the Iceberg switch produces a bright and crisp sound due to its two-stage spring design, appealing to those who prefer a higher-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches will depend on personal preference, board choice, and keycap selection.
In terms of feel, the HMX EMO switch offers a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience. The Iceberg switch, on the other hand, is described as snappy and feathery due to its dual-staged spring design, offering a responsive and comfortable typing feel. The Iceberg switch also features a subtle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces where a quieter typing experience is preferred. Whether you prefer a light and responsive feel like the Iceberg or a lively and clacky feel like the EMO, both switches provide unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, the HMX EMO and Aflion Iceberg linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that appeal to different types of users. While the EMO switch delivers a lively and clacky typing experience with a feather-light bottom-out force, the Iceberg switch provides a high-pitched and snappy sound profile with a dual-staged spring design for a responsive typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches are sure to provide a satisfying and smooth typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX EMO linear switch or the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lively and bouncy typing experience with a feather-light bottom-out force, the HMX EMO switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a smooth and fulfilling feel with a two-stage spring design, the Aflion Iceberg switch could be the better choice. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Iceberg switch might be more appealing to you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
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