Aflion Iceberg vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Aflion Iceberg, a linear switch, and the Durock Koala, a tactile switch. The Iceberg by Aflion, despite being a newer player in the switch manufacturing scene, has quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality switches, exemplified by the smoothness and unique two-stage spring of the Iceberg. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Iceberg offers a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a linear feel. On the other hand, the Durock Koala is known for striking a balance between tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes. With a stepped tactility that provides a noticeable bump without being overwhelming, the Koala is categorized as 'Polished', 'Low-pitched', 'Accented', 'Neutral', 'Stepped', and 'Stiff'. Both switches have their own advantages, offering different typing experiences to cater to individual preferences. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Iceberg and the Durock Koala feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in housing material offers clarity and resonance due to its stiffness, making it ideal for those who prefer a distinct sound while typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for RGB lighting enthusiasts, as it allows for vibrant lighting effects to shine through the top housing. This shared characteristic in their top housings means that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics from both the Iceberg and the Koala.
On the other hand, the Iceberg utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound that some users may prefer. Similarly, the Koala also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a comparable typing experience with its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The utilization of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures consistency in the typing experience, allowing users to enjoy a specific sound profile and feel when pressing down on the keys.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Iceberg and the Durock Koala share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, they differ in their bottom housings with the Iceberg using nylon and the Koala also opting for nylon. Both housing materials bring unique qualities to the switches, impacting the sound profile and feel of typing. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with the Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing or a deeper, fuller sound experience with the Koala's nylon bottom housing, both switches offer distinct characteristics for typing enthusiasts to enjoy.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, it is evident that the Iceberg is lighter in both aspects. The Iceberg has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a light switch overall. In contrast, the Koala has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 67 grams, giving it a more medium-heavy feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Iceberg being ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, while the Koala appeals to users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a heavier force requirement. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on individual typing preferences and comfort levels, with the Iceberg providing a lighter touch and the Koala offering a heavier, more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer a similar typing experience. It is worth noting that a shorter travel distance can lead to faster typing speeds, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback. In this case, both the Iceberg and Koala switches offer the same travel distance, making them equally suitable for different typing preferences.
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 Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics, offering a sharp and snappy sound that can be quite bright and percussive. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, producing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various environments. Depending on the overall setup of your keyboard, including the case and keycaps, these sound profiles can be enhanced or subdued accordingly.
In terms of feel, the Iceberg linear switch is praised for its snappy and feathery qualities, offering a responsive typing experience with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue. Additionally, the switch provides a subtle feel with gentle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces due to its non-resonant sound signature. Conversely, the Durock Koala tactile switch is polished and accented, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming. The stepped design of the switch offers a two-stage tactile feel, allowing for a more controlled and pronounced bump during typing. However, the Koala switch is noted for being stiffer than the Iceberg, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Iceberg switch leans towards a lighter and smoother typing experience with a sharper sound profile, the Koala switch provides a more pronounced tactile feel with a slightly stiffer press and a mellow sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preference regarding typing experience, sound profile, and level of tactile feedback desired. If you enjoy a more lively and snappy typing experience, the Iceberg may be the way to go, while the Koala offers a balanced tactile feel with a touch of refinement.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, consider your preferences in terms of force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force, a smoother keystroke, and a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, the Iceberg may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force, a pronounced bump without being overwhelming, and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, the Koala could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels comfortable and enjoyable for your typing experience.
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