Aflion Iceberg vs. Durock Piano

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Aflion Iceberg and the Durock Piano, both of which are linear switches. The Iceberg, manufactured by Aflion, represents the high quality that this relatively new switch manufacturer produces. This switch is praised for its satisfying smoothness and unique two-stage spring design, providing a fulfilling feel. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Iceberg offers a range of tactile experiences for different preferences. On the other hand, Durock's Piano linear switches are widely recognized for their proprietary material blend, resulting in one of the most pleasant typing experiences. Users appreciate the gliding push feel and deep, creamy sound signature that these switches deliver. Categorized as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', and 'Silky', the Piano provides a distinct typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.

By the numbers

Aflion Iceberg Linear

Durock Piano Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$6.70

$5.57 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Durock Piano differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profile. The Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It offers a clear and resonant sound due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. Additionally, the Iceberg's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Piano utilizes a proprietary POM blend for both its top and bottom housings. Although the exact details of this blend are unknown, it is stated to offer a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. Therefore, while the Iceberg focuses on achieving a clear and resonant sound with its polycarbonate and nylon combination, the Piano aims to deliver a satisfying and deep sound using its proprietary POM blend throughout the housing.

While the top and bottom housings of the Aflion Iceberg and Durock Piano differ, their overall goal is to enhance the sound and feel of typing. The Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Piano's POM blend top housing is designed to offer a deep and satisfying sound experience. Although the specific materials and sound characteristics are not provided for the Piano's bottom housing, it can be assumed that the proprietary POM blend also contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch. Both keyboards strive to provide an enhanced typing experience, with the Iceberg emphasizing clarity and resonance, while the Piano focuses on a deep and satisfying sound.

When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and Durock Piano, it is evident that they incorporate different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, while the Piano utilizes a proprietary POM blend for both its top and bottom housings. As a result, the qualities associated with each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing contributes to the sound when a key is released, providing a clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the Piano's POM blend top housing likely influences the sound when a key is released, aiming for a deep and satisfying sound experience. The bottom housings of both keyboards also play a role in shaping the sound, with the Iceberg's nylon bottom housing resulting in a deeper and fuller sound, and the specific qualities of the Piano's POM blend bottom housing remaining undisclosed. Overall, while they vary in housing materials, both the Iceberg and Piano strive to deliver enhanced sound profiles for an improved typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, there are noticeable differences between the two. The Aflion Iceberg has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with minimal effort. In contrast, the actuation force for the Durock Piano is unavailable, so it is uncertain how it compares to the Iceberg in this aspect. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Iceberg requires a force of 45 grams to fully press the key down, which is still considered light. On the other hand, the Durock Piano has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. It is worth noting that both switches have different weight characteristics, with the Iceberg being lighter overall. For those seeking a keyboard for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Iceberg may be more conducive to sustained usage. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience might find the heavier bottom out force of the Durock Piano to be more suitable. Despite the unavailable actuation force for the Piano, it is clear that it offers a medium-heavy bottom out force compared to the Iceberg, ultimately providing a different typing experience for users.

Travel distance

Both the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance being traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile experience provided by both switches. Both the Iceberg and the Piano offer a consistent travel distance, allowing for a satisfying keypress regardless of which switch you choose.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a clacky and high-pitched profile. This means that it produces a sharp, snappy sound when pressed, characterized by crispness, brightness, and percussion. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch has a bassy sound signature. This results in a deeper, richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, depending on these additional variables, you can expect similar results in terms of sound from both switches.

When it comes to feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offers a snappy and feathery experience. The snappy feel is a result of the switch being super responsive, thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs. This makes the typing experience feel more alive and dynamic. Additionally, the switch has a light actuation force, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. It provides a gentle resistance and a suitable sound signature for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch offers a frictionless and silky feel. It provides an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The switch enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizes resistance during key presses and releases.

In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iceberg has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, and provides a snappy and feathery feel. On the other hand, the Piano offers a bassy sound and a frictionless, silky feel. Both switches represent the high-quality standards that their respective manufacturers are known for. Depending on personal preference and the desired typing experience, these switches can provide satisfying and enjoyable results. It's important to consider other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps, as they can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the Iceberg with its 45 gram force may be the better option for you. Additionally, the Iceberg offers a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel due to its two-stage spring. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Piano with its 63.5 gram force might be more suitable. The Piano is also known for its proprietary material blend, providing a gliding push feel and deep, creamy sound signature. In terms of sound, the Iceberg produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the Piano offers a bassy sound. When it comes to feel, the Iceberg is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle, offering a super responsive and comfortable typing experience. The Piano, on the other hand, provides a frictionless and silky feel, ensuring an effortless and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

Durock Piano Linear

$6.70

$5.57 per 10

Learn more