Kailh Berry vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch, both options offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Berry switch provides a typing experience with a springy feel and a chalk-like texture, producing a deep sound profile categorized as 'Textured', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bassy'. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear switch boasts a silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, categorized as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Polished'. While the Berry switch offers a more tactile feel and distinctive sound, the Ice King Linear switch focuses on smoothness and reduced friction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Durock Ice King Linear, we can see that both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the absorption of sound by the softer plastic. However, the top housing materials differ, with the Berry utilizing polycarbonate and the Ice King Linear using nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Berry creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in top housing materials leads to a difference in the overall sound profile and feel of the switches.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Kailh Berry and the Durock Ice King Linear offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Berry creates a clear and resonant sound, ideal for those who prefer a sharp and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to users who prefer a deeper typing sound. While the bottom housings of both switches are made of nylon, the distribution of the housing materials between top and bottom impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches in distinct ways.
In conclusion, the choice between the Kailh Berry and the Durock Ice King Linear ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the Berry offers a sharp and crisp sound, while the nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a consistent deep sound. Understanding the role of housing materials in the overall typing experience is crucial in determining which switch aligns best with individual preferences and needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch, there are noticeable differences between the two. The Kailh Berry has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while its actuation force is unknown. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear has a lighter actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium switch overall. The Berry offers a heavier typing experience with its higher bottom out force, while the Ice King provides a lighter touch with its lower actuation force. For those who prefer a stronger push feel, the Kailh Berry may be the better choice, while those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Durock Ice King. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm, while the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to everyone, but for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses, the Berry switch might feel slightly more substantial. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and whether a slightly shorter or longer travel distance is preferred for the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
The Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Berry linear switch is best known for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, offering a deep and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is described as producing a subdued sound, offering a more subtle and dampened sound signature. While both switches provide different sound experiences, the ultimate sound quality will also depend on factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Berry linear switch is characterized by a textured feel, providing noticeable friction when pressed. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished feel. These descriptors suggest that the Ice King Linear switch provides an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall smoothness. The Berry switch, on the other hand, offers a more tactile and springy typing feel with a chalk-like texture.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Those looking for a deep, bassy sound profile may prefer the Berry switch, while individuals seeking a smoother and more lubricated typing experience may lean towards the Ice King Linear switch. Ultimately, the best switch for an individual will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Whether choosing the Berry or the Ice King Linear switch, both options are sure to deliver excellent performance for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a heavier bottom out force and a springy, chalk-like texture while typing with a deeper sound profile, the Berry switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a lower bottom out force, full nylon construction, generous factory lube, and a more subdued sound profile, the Ice King Linear switch might be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and overall experience.
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