HMX Cheese vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cheese linear switch to the Durock Ice King Linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, along with a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is known for its silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. While the HMX Cheese switch boasts being lighter than 90% of all switches, the Ice King Linear switch is categorized as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Polished'. 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
43g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Durock Ice King Linear switches are both made of nylon, which is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches benefit from this quality of nylon in terms of sound quality and typing experience.
However, while both switches share the same nylon material for their top and bottom housing, the impact of each housing material differs in terms of sound and feel. The bottom housing of a switch has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing plays a bigger role in the sound when releasing a key. This distinction means that despite both switches using nylon for their housing, the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch may vary slightly based on how the nylon material is utilized in the design of the switch.
In conclusion, the HMX Cheese and the Durock Ice King Linear switches offer a similar typing experience due to their shared use of nylon as a housing material. Both switches produce a deep and full sound profile, thanks to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. The slight differences in how the top and bottom housing materials impact the sound and feel of typing on each switch may lead to subtle variations in the overall typing experience, but overall, users can expect a comparable level of performance and sound quality from both switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, it is evident that the Cheese is lighter in both aspects. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Ice King Linear has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Cheese make it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear switch provides a slightly heavier feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When compared to other switches with longer travel distances, such as 4.0 mm or 4.5 mm, both the Cheese and Ice King switches may provide a slightly shallower typing experience. Despite this, their travel distances are still within the typical range for linear switches and should offer a satisfying typing feel for those who prefer shorter travel distances. Ultimately, whether you choose the Cheese or the Ice King switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $4.29.
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.
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 HMX Cheese linear switch offers a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that adds a tactile element to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch provides a more subdued sound, offering a dampened and subtle sound profile that might be preferred for quieter environments or for individuals looking for a more understated typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound qualities that can complement different preferences, with the Cheese providing a more lively and expressive sound and the Ice King Linear offering a more mellow and restrained auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness, providing a pristine typing experience that is hard to match. In comparison, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is described as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished, emphasizing its smooth and effortless typing feel. With its full nylon construction and factory lube, the Ice King Linear switch ensures a fluid and luxurious typing experience that minimizes resistance and maximizes comfort. Both switches focus on delivering a smooth and enjoyable typing feel, making them ideal choices for those seeking a premium typing experience.
In summary, the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch both offer exceptional qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Cheese switch provides a lively and tactile sound experience along with unmatched smoothness in typing, the Ice King Linear switch offers a more subdued sound profile and a silky, frictionless typing feel. Depending on whether you prefer a more expressive or restrained sound and a slightly different feel, both switches can deliver a top-notch typing experience that is sure to impress enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Ultimately, whichever switch you choose, you can expect a high level of quality and performance that will enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch, consider the typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a lighter switch with a satisfying clacky sound and ultra-smooth feel, the HMX Cheese switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a silky smooth typing experience due to factory lube and full nylon construction, the Durock Ice King Linear switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for bottom out force, sound signature, and overall typing feel.
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