Aflion Iceberg vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between two mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch offer unique experiences for users. The Iceberg from Aflion, despite being a newer player in the market, showcases the brand's commitment to quality with its smooth profile and two-stage spring that provides a satisfying feel. Known for being 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Iceberg switch offers a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch is praised for its gentle tactility and smooth actuation, along with a pleasingly poppy feel. With a 'Stepped' and 'Neutral' categorization, the Violet switch presents a balanced and enjoyable typing sensation with a neutral sound signature. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Jerrzi Violet are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches use polycarbonate in their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that utilize RGB lighting. With both switches sharing this housing material, users can expect a consistent auditory experience in terms of sound quality and aesthetics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Iceberg and the Violet differ slightly. The Iceberg features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Violet also uses nylon in its bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deep and full sound profile. This shared material ensures that both switches offer a tactile and satisfying typing experience, despite the slight variations in their design.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Iceberg and the Jerrzi Violet may come down to personal preference when it comes to the housing materials. While both switches offer similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housing, the slight differences in their nylon bottom housing may lead to a nuanced typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile from the Iceberg or a deeper sound profile from the Violet, both switches are sure to deliver a satisfying typing experience with their quality housing materials.
Weight
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch with an actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Iceberg requires 45 grams while the Violet's bottom out force is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Iceberg may appeal to those who prefer a gentler typing experience, making it suitable for extended periods of typing or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Violet switch may provide a more substantial typing feel for users looking for a bit more resistance. In either case, the actuation force plays a significant role in the typing experience, determining the level of feedback and resistance the user will feel while pressing the keys.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Violet switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Iceberg switch. The shorter travel distance of the Violet switch may make it more preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Iceberg switch with a slightly longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, with the Iceberg providing a slightly longer travel distance than the Violet.
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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and sharp typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a neutral sound signature, offering a moderate and versatile sound suitable for various purposes. When it comes to feel, the Iceberg switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle, providing a responsive and light typing experience with gentle resistance. In comparison, the Violet switch is characterized by a stepped tactile feel, offering a two-stage sensation that is mild and not overpowering. Overall, while the Iceberg switch excels in providing a satisfyingly smooth feel and lively sound, the Violet switch offers a balanced and gentle tactile experience with a neutral sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users looking for either a more dynamic or subdued feel and sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a light bottom out force and a smooth typing experience with a two-stage spring for added satisfaction, the Iceberg linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle tactile switch with a smooth actuation and a balanced sound signature, the Violet tactile switch would be a great option. Additionally, if you enjoy a snappy and feathery typing experience with a light actuation force, the Iceberg switch would suit you well. Conversely, if you prefer a switch with a stepped tactile feel that provides a mild bump during typing, the Violet switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and tactile feedback.
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