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Aflion Iceberg vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow

An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

Introducing the Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow, two popular mechanical keyboard switches that fall under the linear switch category. The Iceberg, manufactured by Aflion, represents the quality and craftsmanship that this relatively new switch manufacturer is known for. With its smoothness and fulfilling feel, thanks to its two-stage spring, the Iceberg switch provides a satisfying typing experience. Categorized as clacky, high-pitched, snappy, feathery, and subtle, it offers a range of tactile sensations. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switch from Wuque Studio combines classic materials with cutting-edge engineering, resulting in a timeless fusion. With a 22mm double-stage spring, these switches provide a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. Their material blend also produces a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore. Categorized as creamy, mild, and polished, the WS Yellow switches offer a different tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific needs.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

37g

Actuation force

N/A

Bottom-out force

45g

Bottom-out force

53g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Total travel

3.80 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

22mm double-stage spring

Housing materials

The Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow have different housing materials for both the top and bottom parts of the switches. The Iceberg uses a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, the WS Yellow's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. The contrasting materials result in distinct sound profiles, catering to different preferences in terms of pitch and resonance.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Iceberg and WS Yellow use nylon as the material. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deep and full sound profile. It absorbs more sound than harder plastics, ultimately resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, both switches offer a similar typing experience when it comes to bottom-out sounds and feels, as the characteristics of nylon material dominate in this aspect. Users can expect a satisfying and substantial sound while typing on either the Iceberg or the WS Yellow due to the presence of nylon in their bottom housings.

Considerations should also be made about the impact of the housing materials on the sound when releasing a key. The top housing material tends to have a more significant impact on the sound when a key is released. In the case of the Iceberg with its polycarbonate top housing, users can expect a clearer and resonant sound profile upon key release. Conversely, the WS Yellow's nylon top housing will contribute to a softer and less pronounced sound when letting go of a key. This difference in top housing material leads to a variation in the sound experience between the two switches, emphasizing the importance of considering individual sound preferences when making a choice.

In summary, the Aflion Iceberg and Wuque Studio WS Yellow offer different housing materials for their top and bottom parts of the switches. The Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, while the WS Yellow's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. Although both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, they provide distinct sound experiences due to the contrasting top housing materials. The impact of the housing materials should be considered, as the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, it is evident that both switches offer different characteristics. The Aflion Iceberg has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with minimal effort. In contrast, the actuation force of the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch is unknown, rendering a direct comparison challenging. However, the WS Yellow switch does have a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience when pressing the keys fully.

Consideration should be given to weight preferences when selecting a switch. Some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows for extended typing periods and is ideal for keyboards used for work or prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial push feel might prefer options with heavier forces. In this context, the Aflion Iceberg switch would be suitable for those favoring a lighter actuation force, while the WS Yellow switch offers a medium-light bottom out force.

In either case, both switches provide their own unique characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their preferences. While the actuation force of the WS Yellow switch is not specified, it can be assumed that when comparing it to the Iceberg, the WS Yellow will offer a similar or slightly heavier actuation force to trigger keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Iceberg and Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches will depend on the desired typing experience and personal preferences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in their measurements. The Iceberg has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered to be a more traditional length. On the other hand, the WS Yellow has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes it slightly shallower compared to the Iceberg. In recent times, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers who desire faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, opting for the WS Yellow with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt or lacking in depth. For those who prefer a more substantial tactile experience, the Iceberg with its longer travel distance would be the preferred option. Overall, the choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the level of responsiveness desired.

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 Yellow comes in at $3.50 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

In terms of sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. This means that when pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch's sound quality is unknown. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. However, based on the available information, if you prefer a switch with a sharp and crisp sound profile, the Iceberg switch would be a good choice.

In terms of feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offers a snappy and feathery typing experience. This means that it is super responsive due to its longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. Additionally, it is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from your fingers, reducing finger fatigue. The Iceberg switch also has a subtle typing feel with a gentle resistance and a non-resonant sound signature, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch offers a creamy, mild, and polished typing experience. This means it provides a smooth and buttery typing sensation, a gentle typing experience, and reduced friction and smooth key travel. Based on these descriptions, if you prefer a switch with a light and gentle typing experience and a smooth and refined finish, the WS Yellow switch would be a good choice.

In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg and Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iceberg switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound with a snappy and feathery typing experience. Meanwhile, the WS Yellow switch offers a creamy and polished typing experience with a mild feel. If you prefer a switch with a sharp, crisp sound and a light, responsive feel, the Iceberg switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a smooth, buttery typing sensation and a gentle typing experience, the WS Yellow switch would be a better option. Regardless of the choice, it's important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps to fully determine the overall sound and feel of the switches.

Conclusion

In closing, if you're looking for a light and smooth linear switch, the Aflion Iceberg is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, it offers a satisfying and fulfilling feel due to its two-stage spring. The Iceberg has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which can be crisp and bright. The WS Yellow, on the other hand, is a timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it provides a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. The WS Yellow has a creamy, mild, and polished feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Iceberg and the WS Yellow depends on your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and feel. Consider whether you prefer a lighter switch with a clacky sound and snappy feel (Iceberg), or a slightly heavier switch with a creamy sound and polished feel (WS Yellow). Overall, both switches are excellent options for a smooth and enjoyable typing experience.

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