Dareu Firefly vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and the Aflion Iceberg offer unique experiences for users. The Firefly is a tactile switch known for its quiet operation and light actuation with a hint of clickiness, making it easy to press and producing a chirpy sound. On the other hand, the Iceberg from Aflion is a linear switch that boasts a smooth profile and a two-stage spring for a satisfying feel. Described as clacky, high-pitched, snappy, feathery, and subtle, the Iceberg switch provides a distinct typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
40g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Aflion Iceberg, it is clear that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both keyboards. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the keyboards. It is evident that both the Firefly and Iceberg benefit from the qualities of polycarbonate in their top housing, providing users with a satisfying typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Firefly and Iceberg keyboards feature nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound for both keyboards, enhancing the overall typing experience. With nylon bottom housings, users can expect a more cushioned and quieter typing experience compared to keyboards with harder bottom housing materials.
Overall, while the Dareu Firefly and Aflion Iceberg keyboards may differ in their overall design and features, their choice of housing materials for the top and bottom housings align closely. Both keyboards benefit from the unique characteristics of polycarbonate in the top housing, providing a clear and resonant sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting. Similarly, the use of nylon in the bottom housing for both keyboards results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more comfortable typing experience for users. Whether you choose the Firefly or Iceberg, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience due to the carefully selected housing materials utilized in their construction.
Weight
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Firefly has an actuation force of 40 grams, while the Iceberg has an actuation force of 37 grams. The Firefly has no information available for bottom out force, whereas the Iceberg has a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it heavier than the Firefly in this aspect. Actuation force is crucial for the initial trigger of a keystroke, while bottom out force measures the amount of force needed to fully press a key. Those who prefer lighter switches may opt for the Iceberg due to its lower actuation force, perfect for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Firefly for a stronger push feel. Overall, while the actuation forces differ between the two switches, the bottom out force of the Iceberg indicates a lighter overall typing experience compared to the Firefly, making the choice between the two switches dependent on individual preferences for typing feel and pressure.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom, which is the distance you feel when pressing down on a key. In this case, both switches offer a consistent travel distance, ensuring a similar typing experience in terms of key feel and feedback. This means that whether you choose the Firefly or the Iceberg, you can expect to get similar results in terms of travel distance when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Firefly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Firefly for $3.76.
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 Dareu Firefly switch offers a unique "chirpy" sound that sets it apart from other switches. This subtle squeak adds a distinctive acoustic signature to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch provides a "clacky" and "high-pitched" sound when pressed, giving a sharp and crisp feedback to each keystroke. Both switches offer different sound profiles that cater to varying preferences, with the Firefly being quieter and the Iceberg being more percussive. The ultimate sound experience will also depend on factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch provides a "snappy" and "feathery" feel, with a super responsive feedback and a light actuation force that reduces strain on the fingers. The Iceberg switch also has a "subtle" resistance that maintains a light typing feel, suitable for shared spaces. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with different tactile feedback, catering to different typing preferences.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly provides a quieter and easy-to-press experience with a chirpy sound signature, while the Iceberg offers a sharp, snappy sound with a satisfying and responsive feel due to its two-stage spring design. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, you can achieve similar typing results with either switch while enjoying the distinct characteristics that each one brings to the table. Ultimately, the choice between the Firefly and Iceberg switches will depend on whether you prefer a lighter, quieter typing experience or a more tactile and responsive feedback.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, you should consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a quiet switch with a light actuation force and just a hint of clickiness, the Firefly would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and satisfying feel with a light actuation force and snappy response, the Iceberg may be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking.
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