Kailh Box White vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White and the Durock Ice King Tactile stand out as distinct options for different typing preferences. The Box White switch excels in providing a clicky typing experience, with users enjoying the satisfying audio feedback akin to stepping on autumn leaves, accompanied by a pronounced tactility. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile offers a tactile typing experience that is smooth and refined, with a noticeable bump that enhances the overall feel. While the Box White is characterized by its resonant and high-pitched qualities, the Ice King Tactile stands out for its silky smoothness and subdued tactility. Both switches have their unique appeal, catering to different preferences in typing sensation. 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
50g
Actuation force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the Durock Ice King Tactile, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon for the bottom housing. While both switches share the same material for their bottom housing, the differences in their top housing materials set them apart in terms of sound and feel.
The Kailh Box White features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile when compared to nylon. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing. Nylon, being a softer material, elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile that is duller and rounder in comparison to the polycarbonate top housing of the Box White.
The differences in top housing materials between the Kailh Box White and the Durock Ice King Tactile contribute to unique sound characteristics for each switch. While the Box White's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharp and crisp sound profile, the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate or nylon in the top housing will have a noticeable impact on the sound when pressing down and letting go of keys. Despite their differences, both switches share the same nylon material for their bottom housing, resulting in a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch.
Weight
The actuation force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch is lighter at 50 grams compared to the Durock Ice King Tactile switch at 58 grams, making the Box White the lighter option. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Box White requiring 60 grams and the Ice King Tactile 68 grams. If you prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Box White may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Ice King Tactile would be the heavier option to consider. Overall, the differences in actuation force and bottom out force between the two switches provide users with choices to cater to their specific preferences for typing and gaming.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm, slightly longer than the 3.5mm travel distance of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for gamers looking for faster response times. The Box White offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a bit more depth for those who prefer a more pronounced key press. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switch's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a quicker, more abrupt key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Ice King Tactile 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 Tactile for $4.20.
The Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 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 Box White clicky switch is known for its resonant and high-pitched qualities, providing a clean and sharp sound profile reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. This auditory experience is immersive and satisfying for those who enjoy a distinct clicky sound while typing. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch offers a more subdued sound, producing a dampened and subtle sound signature when pressed. This switch prioritizes a smoother and quieter typing experience compared to the Box White, appealing to users who prefer a quieter switch option.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel. This switch is designed to enhance the overall ease of typing with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch provides a silky and frictionless feel, ensuring an exceptionally smooth typing experience with effortless key presses. Additionally, the Ice King Tactile switch is noted for its stepped design, giving users a unique tactile sensation with distinct stages during key presses. This switch focuses on maximizing comfort and fluidity in typing motions.
Overall, while the Kailh Box White clicky switch excels in providing a loud and clicky typing experience with a polished feel, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch offers a more subdued sound profile paired with a silky smooth feel and stepped tactile feedback. Choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Whether opting for the pronounced click of the Box White or the creamy smoothness of the Ice King Tactile, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch option, tailored to their desired sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Box White clicky switch or the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy maximum audio feedback with a "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and accented tactility, then the Box White may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a symphony of touch with creamy smoothness and a pronounced tactile bump, the Ice King Tactile offers a uniquely satisfying tactile experience. Additionally, if you prefer a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, the Box White may be more appealing, whereas if you prefer a more subdued sound signature, the Ice King Tactile would be the way to go. Remember that the Box White has a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Ice King Tactile has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 68 grams. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences for sound, feel, and actuation force.
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