Aflion Iceberg vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Iceberg and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features and characteristics. The Aflion Iceberg is a representation of the quality that Aflion, a newer switch manufacturer, produces. Known for its smoothness and fulfilling feel due to its two-stage spring, the Iceberg switch falls into categories such as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle'. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, produced by Haimu, boasts a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, offering a silky typing experience. A standout feature of the Lightning Silver V3 is its light diffuser, enhancing RGB illumination. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Iceberg and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profiles. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic, resulting in a more resonant sound. Both switches are aesthetically pleasing, especially when used with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for a vibrant display of colors. With similar qualities in their top housings, users can expect a consistent sound and feel when typing on either the Iceberg or Lightning Silver V3 switches.
However, where these two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Iceberg utilizes a nylon bottom housing, giving it a deeper and fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound compared to the harder polycarbonate material used in the Lightning Silver V3's bottom housing. This difference in material results in a different typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Despite their contrasting bottom housing materials, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Aflion Iceberg and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and typing feel. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the Iceberg's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience compared to the Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate bottom housing. Whether you prefer a sharper, resonant sound or a softer, more rounded sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, it is evident that the Iceberg is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Iceberg has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 has a higher actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. While both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, the Iceberg is suited for users who prefer a lighter touch, while the Lightning Silver V3 is more suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, the Iceberg has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Lightning Silver V3 has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Iceberg has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lightning Silver V3. The Iceberg's 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a deeper key press feel, while the Lightning Silver V3's 3.4 mm travel distance is shallower, offering a quicker response time. Gamers may prefer the Lightning Silver V3 for its faster response, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Iceberg. Overall, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and key press feel.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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, both the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch share similar characteristics of being clacky and high-pitched. This means that users can expect a sharp and crisp sound when pressing these switches, giving a satisfying auditory feedback during typing sessions. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Iceberg linear switch offers a mix of snappy and feathery qualities, providing a responsive and lightweight typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 switch is described as silky, emphasizing a smooth and effortless keystroke. Both switches aim to enhance typing comfort and reduce finger fatigue, catering to different preferences for typing feel.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Iceberg and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switches exhibit slightly different sound and feel characteristics, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique qualities. Whether you prefer a snappier and lighter feel with the Iceberg or a smoother and silkier touch with the Lightning Silver V3, both switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams and enjoy a smooth typing experience with a satisfying two-stage spring, then the Iceberg switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force of 60 grams and appreciate a clacky, high-pitched sound signature with a light diffuser for enhanced RGB illumination, the Lightning Silver V3 switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall feel and sound you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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