KTT Darling vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Darling and the Aflion Iceberg both offer unique features and typing experiences. The Darling, a linear switch, is renowned for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. Its high-pitched and resonant sound upon bottoming out creates a delightful blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg, also a linear switch, boasts a smooth profile and a two-stage spring mechanism that provides a fulfilling feel. It offers a snappy and subtle typing experience, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter option. 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
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Darling and the Aflion Iceberg feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful if RGB lighting is a feature you desire in your keyboard setup. The similarity in housing material in this aspect means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel from both the Darling and the Iceberg.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Darling and the Iceberg utilize nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. The difference in bottom housing material between the two keyboards may result in slightly varied typing experiences, with the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches being influenced by the qualities of the nylon bottom housing.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Darling and Iceberg keyboards offers a balanced typing experience. While the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings ensures that users can enjoy a nuanced and satisfying typing experience with both the KTT Darling and the Aflion Iceberg keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it is clear that the Iceberg is the lighter option while the Darling is the heavier choice. The Darling has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. In contrast, the Iceberg has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel for extended periods of time, the Iceberg would be the more suitable option. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Darling for its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, both switches offer differing levels of force for a customized typing experience based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, we can see that the Darling has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Iceberg has a travel distance of 4 mm. In the world of switches, even a 0.5 mm difference can make a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. It is said that 4.0 mm is the most traditional travel distance, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Darling a potentially better option for gaming. However, those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may lean towards the Iceberg with its slightly longer travel distance.Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and what feels most comfortable to the user in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Darling linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics, delivering a sharp and resonant sound upon bottoming out. This creates an engaging auditory experience that can be satisfying for users who enjoy a crisp and bright sound profile. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch also offers a clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. Both switches share similar sound profiles, which means users can expect comparable auditory feedback regardless of their choice.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling switch is described as bouncy, providing a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. This bouncy sensation adds a dynamic element to typing, giving users a lively feel and rebound when pressing the keys. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch is known for its snappy and feathery feel, offering a super responsive typing experience with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue. The Iceberg switch also provides a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel that is comfortable for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the KTT Darling and Aflion Iceberg linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Darling switch provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a bouncy feel and resonant sound, the Iceberg switch offers a smooth and fulfilling feel with a snappy and feathery response. Users can choose between these switches based on their preference for sound and feel, knowing that they will get a satisfying typing experience regardless of their final decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing needs. If you enjoy a medium-light bottom out force and a typing sensation that feels chewy, substantial, and bouncy with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, the Darling may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, snappy feel with a two-stage spring for added satisfaction, the Iceberg could be the ideal option. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience to determine which switch suits your style best. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that aligns with your preferences and needs the most.
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