Aflion Iceberg vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your typing preferences. Fortunately, the Aflion Iceberg and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offer distinct features that cater to different needs. The Iceberg, a linear switch, is a shining example of the quality switches produced by Aflion, a relatively new switch manufacturer. With a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel thanks to its two-stage spring, it provides a clacky, high-pitched, snappy, feathery, and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) by Durock is perfect for individuals seeking both tactility and a quieter typing experience, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. This switch offers a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, providing a stepped, accented, muted, and polished typing experience. 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
Housing materials
The Aflion Iceberg and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to its stiffness, polycarbonate produces a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches utilize the translucent quality of polycarbonate to enhance the RGB lighting effect. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using these switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Iceberg and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) feature nylon. This choice of material elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As such, users can anticipate a similar typing experience with these switches, as the nylon bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel.
While the top and bottom housing materials are the same for both switches, it is worth noting that they have different impacts on the overall sound. The bottom housing is primarily responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the Iceberg and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) may have subtle differences in sound characteristics due to variations in their top and bottom housing designs. However, the overall similarities in the materials used ensure a comparable typing experience for users of both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it becomes evident that there are notable differences. The Iceberg linear switch boasts a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, making it ideal for individuals seeking a smoother and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is unknown, but when considering the bottom out force, it is clear that this switch falls on the medium-heavy side with 67 grams.
For those who value a lighter typing feel, the Iceberg linear switch would be a suitable option as it requires less force, allowing for comfortable and prolonged typing sessions. This makes it particularly handy for individuals who utilize their keyboards extensively at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch caters to those who prefer a more substantial and pronounced typing experience. With a heavier bottom out force, this switch provides a satisfying tactile feedback that some users may find more desirable.
While the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch remains unknown, it is worth noting that similar results to the Iceberg's light actuation force can be achieved by opting for a lighter switch variant within the Durock Silent T1 range, if available. Nonetheless, in terms of weight, the Iceberg switch emerges as the lighter option between the two, offering a gentler touch for extended typing periods.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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 sound. This produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, giving it a crisp, bright, and percussive quality. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is described as muted. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular or clacky switch, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Iceberg linear switch is known for being snappy and feathery. The snappy feel is a result of its super responsiveness, thanks to the longer or dual-staged springs, which enhances the typing experience. The feathery feel of the Iceberg switch means it is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from your fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Iceberg switch is described as having a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel and a non-resonant sound signature suitable for shared spaces.
On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offers a stepped and accented feel. The stepped feel refers to tactile switches that have two stages, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This gives the typing experience a more mild tactile sensation compared to hypertactile switches. The accented feel of the Silent T1 switch provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Furthermore, the Silent T1 switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iceberg switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the Silent T1 switch offers a muted sound. In terms of feel, the Iceberg switch is snappy, feathery, and subtle, while the Silent T1 switch is stepped, accented, and polished. Both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a satisfyingly smooth experience, the Iceberg switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you desire both a tactile and silenced switch, the Silent T1 switch is ideal for noise-sensitive environments.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and smooth switch, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, it offers a satisfying snappy feel due to its two-stage spring. The Iceberg is also known for its clacky and high-pitched sound, which produces a crisp and bright sound profile. If you prefer a switch that requires little exertion and reduces finger fatigue, the Iceberg's feathery feel is perfect for extended typing sessions. However, if you are looking for a tactile and silenced switch, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the better choice. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel. The Silent T1 is ideal for noise-sensitive environments as it produces a muted sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a stepped feel and an accented tactility, the Silent T1 provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. The polished finish of the Silent T1 also ensures a smooth and refined typing experience. In the end, your choice between the Iceberg and Silent T1 depends on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as your need for silence and certain feel profiles.
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