Aflion Iceberg vs. Dareu Mahjong

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Aflion Iceberg and the Dareu Mahjong, both linear switches. The Iceberg switch, from Aflion, showcases the brand's commitment to quality with its smoothness and unique two-stage spring design, providing a satisfying typing experience. It is characterized by a 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle' feel. On the other hand, the Mahjong switch by Dareu stands out for its vibrant green and white color scheme, offering a lively sound signature and effortless typing feel. Categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', the Mahjong switch is a unique option for keyboard enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Iceberg Linear

Dareu Mahjong Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$8.89

$5.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Dareu Mahjong, it is evident that both keyboards utilize high-quality materials to enhance the overall typing experience. The Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness and translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Mahjong's POK top housing offers a smooth and durable typing experience, with exceptional wear and shock resistance qualities. While both materials excel in different aspects, they both contribute to creating satisfying and responsive keystrokes for users.

Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Iceberg and the Mahjong utilize nylon for its ability to produce a deep and full sound profile when typing. Nylon's softness absorbs sound more effectively, creating a duller and rounder sound that appeals to those looking for a more muted typing experience. Despite the similar choice of material for their bottom housings, each keyboard retains its unique sound characteristics due to other factors such as keycap design and switch type. Overall, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a more tactile and satisfying typing experience for users of both keyboards.

Ultimately, while the Aflion Iceberg and the Dareu Mahjong may differ in the specific materials used for their top and bottom housings, they both aim to provide users with a premium typing experience. Whether it be the sharper sound profile of the Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing or the smooth and durable qualities of the Mahjong's POK top housing, both keyboards offer unique characteristics that cater to users with different preferences. Similarly, the nylon bottom housings of both keyboards deliver a deep and full sound profile, highlighting the importance of housing materials in enhancing the overall typing feel and sound of mechanical keyboards.

Weight

In comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, it is evident that the Iceberg has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Mahjong's 45 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 45 grams for the Iceberg, while the Mahjong's bottom out force is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Iceberg may appeal to those who prefer a light and responsive typing experience, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Mahjong's slightly heavier actuation force may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Mahjong has a shorter travel distance compared to the Iceberg. The Iceberg's 4 mm distance is more traditional, offering a balance between responsiveness and depth, making it suitable for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Mahjong's 3.4 mm travel distance is on the shallower end, ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which provides a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offers a more neutral sound, suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches will provide a unique auditory experience, with the Iceberg being more sharp and percussive, while the Mahjong offers a moderate and versatile sound signature.

When it comes to feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is characterized as snappy, feathery, and subtle, offering a responsive and light typing feel with gentle resistance. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is known for its bouncy, mild, and polished feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and refined typing experience. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, with the Iceberg focusing on responsiveness and lightness, while the Mahjong emphasizes rebound and a polished finish.

Taking all the available information into account, it is clear that the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch provide unique and distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a sharper and snappier sound with a light and responsive typing feel, the Iceberg switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more versatile and neutral sound with a bouncy and polished typing feel, the Mahjong switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer different but equally enjoyable typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences and typing style.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a light bottom out force, the Iceberg with its 45 grams force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force, the Mahjong may be worth considering. Additionally, think about the sound and feel you desire in a switch. If you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound with a snappy and feathery feel, the Iceberg may suit your preferences. However, if you prefer a neutral sound and a bouncy, mild, or polished feel, the Mahjong could be the right choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing preferences and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

Dareu Mahjong Linear

$8.89

$5.79 per 10

Learn more