Durock Daybreak vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking to compare and contrast two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Daybreak and Aflion Iceberg come to mind. The Durock Daybreak is known for its solid 67g weight, offering a heftier typing experience perfect for those who prefer a more substantial touch. With its heavy actuation force and quiet operation, it is an ideal choice for workspaces or settings where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg showcases smoothness and a two-stage spring for a satisfying feel. Both switches bring unique qualities to the table; the Daybreak being categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Low-pitched', and the Iceberg as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', 'Subtle'. 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
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Daybreak and the Aflion Iceberg utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to its relatively stiff nature, polycarbonate produces a clear and resonant sound that is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. This material is commonly used in clear housings to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the switches. Both keyboards will deliver similar results in terms of sound profile and overall performance when it comes to the top housing material.
On the other hand, the Daybreak features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. Similarly, the Iceberg also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, offering the same qualities in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both keyboards ensures a consistent and pleasing typing sound that enhances the overall user experience.
When considering the impact of different housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a keyboard switch, it's important to note that the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housing. The bottom housing has a more pronounced effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Both the Daybreak and Iceberg keyboards showcase the unique characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective top and bottom housing, providing a balanced and engaging typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it is clear that the Iceberg is the lighter option overall. The Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Iceberg has a significantly lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. Additionally, the Iceberg also has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Daybreak's unknown actuation force. This means that the Iceberg requires less force to trigger a keystroke and less force to fully press down compared to the Daybreak. Overall, for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Iceberg would be the more suitable option, while the Daybreak would cater to those who prefer a more substantial and heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it is evident that the Daybreak has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Iceberg's 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0mm being the most common, the slight difference may be noticeable to some users. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the Daybreak for its faster response time due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more deliberate keystroke may opt for the Iceberg with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Daybreak has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Daybreak for $5.41.
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 Durock Daybreak linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, making it ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which may appeal to those who enjoy a sharper and crisper typing sound. Depending on personal preferences and the overall setup of your keyboard, the sound produced by each switch can vary in its perceived characteristics.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Daybreak is known for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Iceberg offers a snappy and responsive feel, likely due to its two-stage spring design. Additionally, the Iceberg switch is described as feathery and subtle, providing a light typing feel that reduces finger fatigue and strain during prolonged typing sessions. Each switch's unique feel caters to different typing styles, so it's essential to consider your preferences before making a choice.
Overall, the Durock Daybreak and Aflion Iceberg linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a heavier touch and quieter operation, the Daybreak may be the better option for you. Alternatively, if you enjoy a more responsive and lively typing experience with a crisper sound profile, the Iceberg switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, both switches provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, ensuring a satisfying typing experience based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it all boils down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a more muted and low-pitched sound profile, then the Daybreak switch with its 67g bottom out force would be a great fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a snappier, clacky sound profile and various actuation forces due to the two-stage spring design, then the Iceberg switch with its 45g bottom out force might be more suitable for your needs. Consider your typing environment and preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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