TTC Gold Pink vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch with the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, it becomes clear that both offer unique features and benefits for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Gold Pink stands out for its incredibly light 37g actuation force, making it ideal for fast and effortless typing as well as gaming. With a satisfying clacky sound, these switches provide a lively typing experience that is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switch elevates tactile typing to an art form by combining creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump. This unique blend creates a satisfying tactile experience categorized as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', and 'Polished'. While the Gold Pink excels in lightness and speed, the Ice King Tactile offers a luxurious and tactile typing 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
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the Durock Ice King Tactile, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is well-known for its ability to create a deep and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This means that both switches will likely produce a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to bottom-out sound. However, the top housing of the Gold Pink is made of polycarbonate, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile features a nylon top housing, which creates a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the sound produced when letting go of a key will differ between the two switches.
While both the Gold Pink and the Ice King Tactile share a commonality in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, the choice of material for the top housing sets them apart. The Gold Pink's polycarbonate top housing offers a more distinct and resonant sound due to its stiffness, while the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper sound profile. This contrast in material highlights the impact that the top housing can have on the overall sound and feel of a switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Gold Pink's housing allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, providing an aesthetic advantage that the Ice King Tactile may lack.
In terms of overall typing experience, the housing materials play a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of each switch. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in both the Gold Pink and the Ice King Tactile means that each component contributes to a different aspect of the typing experience. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is influenced by the softer nature of nylon, while the top housing's effect on the sound upon key release varies between the sharper polycarbonate of the Gold Pink and the more absorbing nylon of the Ice King Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, we see a clear difference in the weight of the switches. The Gold Pink has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile has a heavier actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. While the Gold Pink offers a lighter touch for smoother typing, the Ice King Tactile provides a more pronounced tactile response with its heavier forces. Depending on individual preference, one may opt for the lighter Gold Pink for longer typing sessions or the heavier Ice King Tactile for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Gold Pink has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ice King Tactile. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. For those who prefer a more traditional travel distance, the Gold Pink may be the better option. However, if you are looking for a slightly shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Ice King Tactile could be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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.
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 Gold Pink linear switch is known for its clacky sound, providing a satisfying level of feedback as you type. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch is described as producing a more subdued sound when pressed. This means that while the Gold Pink offers a livelier and more audible typing experience, the Ice King Tactile provides a quieter and more subtle sound signature, suitable for those in shared spaces or looking for a more muted typing experience.
As for the feel of the switches, the Gold Pink linear switch is often described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. This indicates that it offers a smooth, light, and effortless typing experience with reduced finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch is known for feeling silky, frictionless, stepped, and also polished. This suggests that it provides an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump, creating a unique and satisfying tactile sensation.
In conclusion, the Gold Pink linear switch is ideal for those seeking a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound, perfect for rapid typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch offers a creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, elevating tactile typing to an art form. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, providing users with distinct typing experiences based on their individual preferences. Additionally, both switches benefit from a polished finish, ensuring smooth key travel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience with a satisfying feedback, the Gold Pink switch with its 45g bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-heavy tactile switch that offers a creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, the Ice King Tactile with its 68g bottom out force may be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the Gold Pink switch is best for those who value speed and efficiency, while the Ice King Tactile switch provides a unique tactile typing experience with a blend of smoothness and tactility. Consider your typing preferences and needs when choosing between these two switches.
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