Aflion Iceberg vs. Durock White Lotus

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Aflion Iceberg and the Durock White Lotus. While both switches have their merits, they offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Iceberg, from Aflion, stands out with its smoothness and fulfilling feel, thanks to its two-stage spring mechanism. Categorized as "clacky," "high-pitched," "snappy," "feathery," and "subtle," these linear switches offer a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches, designed by Durock, are renowned for their exquisite light tactility. Perfectly balancing delicate tactility without overwhelming the user, these tactile switches are ideal for work and extended typing sessions. Additionally, the White Lotus switches feature a removable light column, allowing for vibrant and mesmerizing RGB lighting effects. 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

Durock White Lotus Tactile

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Durock White Lotus switches exhibit some notable differences. The Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. On the other hand, the White Lotus boasts a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which offers a unique and premium feel, though specific sound characteristics are not mentioned. While both switches utilize different materials for their top housing, they are likely to yield similar results when it comes to sound quality and RGB lighting compatibility.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Iceberg and the White Lotus employ nylon, a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's relatively softer nature allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience. Although the bottom housings of the switches are made of the same material, it is important to note that they may still possess distinct designs or characteristics that can slightly influence the overall typing experience.

Considering the impact of the housing materials on the switch's performance, it is crucial to acknowledge that the qualities associated with each material will be divided between the top and bottom housings. When pressing down on the switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing will be more noticeable, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will exert a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Iceberg and the White Lotus may have differing housing materials, the overall typing experience and sound profiles could still exhibit similarities due to the nature of these materials and their allocation within the switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Iceberg switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the White Lotus switch's actuation force of 46 grams, making the Iceberg switch easier to activate. Similarly, the Iceberg switch has a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the White Lotus switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 56 grams. This indicates that the White Lotus switch requires a slightly stronger push for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, those seeking a lighter typing feel and ease of use may prefer the Iceberg switch, while those who prefer a slightly heavier touch and more tactile experience may lean towards the White Lotus switch. Both switches offer distinct advantages for different typing preferences, allowing users to choose the option that suits their individual needs.

Travel distance

Both the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Consequently, users can expect a similar tactile experience when using these switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound. This means that the switch produces a sharp and crisp sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound. The low-pitched sound of the White Lotus switch is more bass-heavy and mellow, creating a soothing typing experience. The neutral sound profile makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, as well as for use in various environments such as home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offers a snappy and feathery typing experience. The snappy feel of the Iceberg switch is characterized by its super responsiveness, thanks to the use of longer or dual-staged springs. This makes the typing experience feel more alive and satisfying. Additionally, the feathery feel of the Iceberg switch is exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Durock White Lotus tactile switch, on the other hand, provides an easy-to-press and mild typing experience. The easy-to-press nature of the White Lotus switch requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. It also reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The mild typing experience of the White Lotus switch offers a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. Overall, the White Lotus switch provides a low-impact and responsive typing experience.

Taking into account the available information, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iceberg switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the White Lotus switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound. In terms of feel, the Iceberg switch offers a snappy and feathery typing experience, while the White Lotus switch provides an easy-to-press and mild typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences. While the sound and feel profiles differ, it's worth mentioning that if you prefer a light and smooth typing experience, both switches can provide similar results. However, it is important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used to fully optimize the typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is an excellent choice if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a bottom out force of 45 grams. These switches offer a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel, thanks to their two-stage spring design. If you enjoy a snappy and high-pitched sound when typing, the Iceberg switches will surely satisfy your auditory preferences. Additionally, the Iceberg switches provide a snappy, feathery, or subtle typing feel depending on your preference, making them ideal for extended typing sessions due to their light actuation force.

On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is a great option if you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience with a bottom out force of 56 grams. These switches strike the perfect balance between delicacy and tactility, making them perfect for work and extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. The White Lotus switches also feature a removable light column, allowing for vibrant and luminous RGB lighting effects, adding a captivating glow to your keyboard setup. If you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the White Lotus switches will provide a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The White Lotus switches offer an easy-to-press or mild typing experience, ideal for reducing finger fatigue and enhancing the typing experience with their low-impact and responsive feel.

Ultimately, choosing between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch will depend on your personal preferences for typing force, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider whether you prefer a lighter or slightly heavier typing experience, as well as your preference for clacky and high-pitched sounds versus neutral and low-pitched sounds. Additionally, think about whether you prefer a snappy, feathery, or subtle typing feel versus an easy-to-press or mild typing feel. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the keyboard switch that best suits your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

Durock White Lotus Tactile

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more