Aflion Iceberg vs. Everglide Rice Pudding
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Everglide Rice Pudding switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Iceberg and the Everglide Rice Pudding represent two distinct approaches to typing experience, each appealing to different preferences among users. The Iceberg switch is noted for its remarkably smooth operation and the satisfying tactile feedback provided by its two-stage spring. It's characterized by a clacky, high-pitched, and snappy feel, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a lively, responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Rice Pudding switches offer a balanced typing experience that combines smooth operation with a deep, rich sound, perfect for users who prioritize both satisfaction and precision in their keystrokes. Moreover, the Rice Pudding's compatibility with Wooting's innovative keyboards enhances its appeal to enthusiasts seeking versatility in their keyboard setup. Ultimately, selecting the right switch depends on personal preference: whether you lean toward the lively feedback of the Iceberg or the harmonious blend offered by the Rice Pudding. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Custom stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Iceberg and Everglide Rice Pudding switches share notable similarities in their construction, particularly in the materials used for their top housings. Both switches feature polycarbonate for their upper housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This commonality is significant as polycarbonate's stiffer nature allows for a clear and resonant auditory experience, enhancing overall typing feedback. Aesthetically, both switches benefit from the translucence of polycarbonate, making them suitable for RGB lighting applications. Thus, whether you choose the Iceberg or the Rice Pudding, you can expect similar sound characteristics linked to the polycarbonate top housing.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the two switches diverges in sound profile qualities, though both are made from nylon. Like the Iceberg, the Rice Pudding benefits from nylon's classic appeal, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer and more sound-absorbing properties. As such, while both switches exhibit a deeper, rounder sound profile when bottomed out, the unique interaction between the softer bottom housing and the stiffer top housing helps to diversify the auditory experience during a key press. This design consideration means that, despite sharing similar materials, the overall sound signature can feel distinctly different depending on the acoustic properties instilled by the respective top and bottom materials.
Ultimately, the combination of these materials results in a unique sound and feedback experience for both the Aflion Iceberg and Everglide Rice Pudding switches. Users can expect both switches to deliver a clear top-end response thanks to the polycarbonate top, while the nylon bottom ensures a rich, full-bodied sound when typing. This harmonious blend of materials captures a well-rounded typing experience, allowing users to enjoy the advantages and distinct characteristics that each switch offers, combining the crispness of the top with the depth of the bottom for an overall satisfying sound profile during use.
Weight
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch both feature relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming. The Iceberg requires an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Rice Pudding has a slightly heavier actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. Although their forces are quite similar, the Iceberg is the lighter option overall, appealing to users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience. Conversely, the Rice Pudding, with its marginally higher force requirements, offers a bit more resistance, which some users may favor for a more substantial feeling when typing. Overall, those who prioritize a lighter switch will find the Iceberg to be more suitable, while those who appreciate a firmer push may lean towards the Rice Pudding.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, the Iceberg features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Rice Pudding has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference highlights a distinct preference in design; the Iceberg offers a more traditional and hearty depth that some users may find appealing for its tactile feedback, making it potentially better suited for typists who appreciate a satisfying keystroke. On the other hand, the Rice Pudding’s shorter travel distance caters to gamers seeking quicker response times, which can enhance performance in fast-paced scenarios. Thus, those looking for rapid engagement would benefit from the Rice Pudding, while users who favor a more pronounced feel might prefer the Iceberg with its longer travel distance. Overall, the choice between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preferences regarding responsiveness versus tactile depth.
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 Rice Pudding has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rice Pudding for $6.79.
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 evaluating the sound profile of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it’s characterized by its clacky and high-pitched qualities. These features produce a sharp and snappy sound that resonates with typists who enjoy a bright, percussive auditory feedback. The acoustics of the switches can vary depending on other factors like the keyboard build and keycap material, but their inherent clackiness provides a lively auditory experience. As for the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, specific details about its sound characteristics are not given, leaving an unclear comparison in this area. However, if it provides a different auditory profile, it could cater to users who may prefer a more subdued sound compared to the Iceberg.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Iceberg switch stands out with descriptors such as snappy, feathery, and subtle. The dual-stage spring design not only enhances responsiveness but also creates a light and effortless keypress experience, making it suitable for extended typing sessions without inducing fatigue. Conversely, the Everglide Rice Pudding lacks any detailed description regarding its tactile feedback, meaning that we can't make a direct comparison in terms of the feel. The Iceberg’s engaging tactile response might appeal more to users who prioritize a dynamic typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch excels in both sound and feel with its clacky, high-pitched auditory experience and a notably responsive and light typing quality. Meanwhile, the Everglide Rice Pudding does present an enticing option with its smooth operation and versatility, although specific tactile and auditory characteristics remain unknown. Ultimately, users seeking a lively and engaging typing experience might lean towards the Iceberg, while those interested in performance and compatibility might be drawn to the Rice Pudding, albeit with less definitive feedback on its properties.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Aflion Iceberg linear switches and Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences and use cases. If you value a light actuation with a snappy, responsive feel, the Iceberg switches are an excellent choice, particularly for gaming or fast-paced typing. Their clacky and high-pitched sound profile also adds an engaging auditory element, making your typing experience feel lively and energetic. This makes them suitable for those who enjoy a tactile feedback loop and don't mind sharing that sound in a communal setting.
On the other hand, if you're seeking a more balanced typing experience that excels in both smoothness and sound without the percussive sharpness, the Rice Pudding switches might be more aligned with your needs. Their slightly higher actuation force offers a satisfying depth, and the compatibility with Wooting keyboards enhances versatility for performance-oriented users. These switches are perfect for extended typing sessions, delivering comfort while minimizing finger fatigue. Ultimately, your choice should reflect the kind of experience you want from your mechanical keyboard—be it the energizing feedback of Aflion Icebergs or the refined, smooth operation of Everglide Rice Puddings.
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