Aflion Iceberg vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Iceberg and Dareu Snow mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Iceberg from Aflion, while being a relatively new switch manufacturer, has gained recognition for its satisfying smoothness and two-stage spring that provides a fulfilling feel. Known for being 'clacky', 'high-pitched', 'snappy', 'feathery', and 'subtle', the Iceberg switch offers a distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch stands out for its innovative use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature while typing on this smooth linear switch. Categorized as 'thocky', 'neutral', 'low-pitched', and 'bouncy', the Snow switch offers a different tactile 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Dareu Snow switches have some key differences. The Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Snow utilizes a POK top housing, which offers a smoother and clackier sound with exceptional durability. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. While they both use nylon for the bottom housing, the top housing materials of polycarbonate and POK bring distinct characteristics to each switch.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Iceberg switch results in a clearer and more resonant sound that is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. In comparison, the POK material in the top housing of the Snow switch imparts a smoother and more durable quality, offering a unique typing experience. Despite both switches utilizing a nylon bottom housing, the differences in their top housing materials give them distinct sound profiles and overall feel. The contrasting qualities of polycarbonate and POK in the top housing of these switches demonstrate how different materials can impact the sound and typing experience.
In summary, the housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Dareu Snow switches each bring their own unique characteristics to the overall typing experience. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deep and full sound profile, the top housing materials of polycarbonate and POK differentiate them in terms of sound quality and durability. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Iceberg or the smooth and clacky sound of POK in the Snow, the housing materials play a significant role in shaping the typing experience for these switches.
Weight
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Iceberg also has a lighter force of 45 grams, while the Snow has a heavier force of 60 grams. This means that the Iceberg switch will provide a lighter and easier typing experience, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming, while the Snow switch will offer a more substantial and tactile feel with a stronger push required for each keystroke. Both switches have different actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing experiences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force for your keyboard.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Snow switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Iceberg switch. The shorter travel distance of the Snow switch may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Iceberg switch may provide a more satisfying depth for typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is best characterized by its clacky and high-pitched qualities, providing a sharp and crisp sound when typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a deeper thocky sound profile, with a more neutral and low-pitched tone. Depending on personal preference, the Iceberg may cater to those who enjoy a bright and percussive sound, while the Snow appeals to individuals seeking a richer and softer audio experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Iceberg switch is known for its snappy and feathery characteristics, offering a lively typing experience with a light actuation force. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch provides a bouncy sensation, giving the keys a spring-like feedback when pressed. This difference in feel can significantly impact the typing experience, with the Iceberg being more responsive and light to press, while the Snow offers a more elastic and rebounding feel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iceberg provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a snappy and feathery feel, ideal for those who prefer a sharp and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Snow switch delivers a deeper thocky sound with a bouncy feel, appealing to individuals seeking a rich and elastic feedback when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, ensuring that both switches provide a satisfying typing experience while catering to different preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider the following guidelines: opt for the Iceberg if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a clacky, high-pitched sound profile with a snappy and feathery typing experience. On the other hand, choose the Snow if you prefer a medium bottom out force and are drawn to a thocky, neutral, or low-pitched sound profile, along with a bouncy feel when typing. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of force, sound, and typing feel.
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