Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Aqua King and the Aflion Iceberg are two popular options to consider. The Aqua King is best known for its smooth and frictionless typing experience, almost like gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. It offers a subdued and creamy feel, perfect for those who prefer a polished and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the Iceberg switches from Aflion, a relatively new switch manufacturer, boast a satisfying smoothness and a unique two-stage spring mechanism. Its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, along with its snappy and feathery feel, makes it an intriguing choice for those seeking a subtle yet satisfying typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your keyboard needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King and the Aflion Iceberg, namely polycarbonate and nylon, exhibit distinct qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile and aesthetic appeal of the switches. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, allowing for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for incorporating RGB lighting into the switches. As a result, users can expect similar outcomes in terms of sound quality and visual effects when comparing the two switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Aqua King employs polycarbonate, while the Iceberg opts for nylon. The use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing of the Aqua King ensures a clear and resonant sound, contributing to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Iceberg creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's ability to absorb more sound due to its softer nature results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Iceberg switch.
It is worth noting that the choice of housing materials in the Everglide Aqua King and the Aflion Iceberg splits the characteristics between the top and bottom of the switches. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more noticeable, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect slight differences in the typing experience and sound profiles between the two switches due to the contrasting bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Aqua King has a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Iceberg's 37 grams, making it require a bit more pressure to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Aqua King is 62 grams, while the Iceberg measures at 45 grams. This means that the Aqua King provides a slightly heavier typing experience overall.
Considering weight, these variances can have an impact on user preference. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Iceberg switch more suitable, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for smoother and more effortless keystrokes. This lighter weight can be particularly appealing for individuals who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals who prefer a stronger and more substantial typing experience may opt for the Aqua King, as its higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a tactile feedback that can enhance the typing experience.
While the Aqua King and Iceberg switches differ in weight, those seeking similar results can still attain them by adjusting their typing style. By being conscious and mindful of their keystrokes, individuals using either switch can adapt and achieve their desired typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the Aqua King and Iceberg switches will depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Everglide Aqua King and the Aflion Iceberg linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that regardless of which switch you prefer, you will get similar results in terms of the feeling and feedback when typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) has an MSRP of $7.18 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua King (V3) for $5.44.
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.
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 Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch have distinct qualities when it comes to sound and feel.
Starting with sound, the Aqua King provides a subdued experience. When pressed, it produces a dampened sound that is not completely silent, but offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Iceberg switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound. Pressing the Iceberg switch results in a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. If you prefer a richer and bassy sound profile, it is recommended to opt for higher-pitched switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, the Aqua King switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished qualities. When typing on the Aqua King, users can expect a smooth and buttery experience. The switch offers minimal resistance or friction, resulting in effortless keystrokes and a fluid travel. The Iceberg switch, on the other hand, is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle. The Iceberg switch is super responsive, offering a more alive typing experience. It is exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and strain during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the resistance of the Iceberg switch is gentle, maintaining a light typing feel. It is also worth mentioning that the Iceberg switch is suitable for shared spaces due to its non-resonant sound signature.
Based on the available information, it is clear that the Aqua King and Iceberg switches offer different subjective qualities. The Aqua King provides a frictionless and magical typing experience, reminiscent of ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink. With its creamy and polished attributes, it offers a silky sensation and effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the Iceberg switch represents the quality that Aflion produces, offering snappy and feathery typing sensations. While the Aqua King has a subdued sound, the Iceberg switch's sound is clacky and high-pitched. Overall, with the Aqua King and Iceberg switches, users can expect a diverse range of subjective experiences, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with a medium bottom out force, Everglide Aqua King linear switches would be an excellent choice for you. These switches offer a frictionless and creamy feel, allowing your fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. Additionally, the Aqua King switches provide a subdued sound signature, making them ideal for those who prefer a more subtle typing noise. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and prioritize responsiveness, Aflion Iceberg linear switches would be a great option. These switches have a light bottom out force and offer a snappy and feathery feel, providing a lively typing experience. Furthermore, the Iceberg switches produce a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, which can be especially enjoyable for those who appreciate a crisp and bright typing sound. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, bottom out force, and sound signature.
Mentioned in this article
