Durock Ice King Linear vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi both offer unique features worth exploring. The Ice King Linear provides a silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, offering qualities such as 'Frictionless' and 'Creamy'. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches boast innovation and visual aesthetics with its ultra-smooth linear switches and unique UPE stem, categorized as 'Buttery' and 'Thocky'. 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
52g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Nylon
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches offer unique characteristics that affect the sound profile and overall typing experience. The Ice King Linear features a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the WS Morandi uses a POM top housing, which creates a more muted and deeper sound profile. While both materials offer a pleasing typing experience, the nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear provides a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM top housing of the WS Morandi.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches also showcase differences in their materials. The Ice King Linear utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to its top housing. Conversely, the WS Morandi features a POM bottom housing that enhances the deeper and more muted sound experience. These differences in bottom housing materials impact the bottom-out sound and feel of each switch, providing users with a unique typing sensation based on the housing material used.
While the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences, they both excel in providing a high-quality and satisfying typing experience. The nylon and POM materials used in the top and bottom housings of these switches contribute to their unique sound profiles, with the Ice King Linear delivering a fuller and rounder sound compared to the WS Morandi's more muted and deeper sound. Overall, both switches demonstrate the importance of housing materials in creating a satisfying typing experience, whether it be through a deeper sound or a more muted tone.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch are quite similar, with only a slight difference in grams. The Ice King Linear has a slightly higher actuation force of 52 grams compared to the WS Morandi's 50 grams, while both have a bottom out force of 62 grams and 60 grams respectively. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience when using either switch. However, for those who prefer a lighter touch, the WS Morandi might be a slightly better fit, while the Ice King Linear may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force required for each keystroke.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switches both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, both switches provide a consistent and uniform keypress experience with a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect similar tactile feedback and responsiveness when using either switch. In terms of travel distance, the Ice King Linear and the WS Morandi linear switches offer a balanced and comfortable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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 Wuque Studio WS Morandi comes in at $3.90 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
The Durock Ice King Linear switch is known for providing a slightly more subdued sound profile, offering a dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switch delivers a more low-pitched sound with a slightly more muted tone, adding a bass-heavy and mellow quality to the typing experience. Both switches fall under the category of smooth linear switches, but the Ice King Linear may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience, while the WS Morandi offers a more distinct and slightly more pronounced sound.
When it comes to the typing feel, the Ice King Linear switch is praised for its silky and frictionless typing experience, emphasizing a smooth and effortless keystroke. In contrast, the WS Morandi switch boasts a buttery and creamy sensation, providing a seamless and uniform typing experience. Both switches offer a luxurious and refined feel, allowing for comfortable and efficient typing sessions. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
In conclusion, both the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches offer exceptional smoothness and a high-quality typing experience. While the Ice King Linear may appeal to those seeking a more subdued sound profile and a silky feel, the WS Morandi caters to individuals looking for a low-pitched sound and a buttery typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches are excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking to elevate their typing experience with premium linear switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switches, consider the following guidelines: If you prioritize a slightly heavier bottom out force and a subdued sound profile with a silky and frictionless typing experience, the Ice King Linear may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a slightly lighter bottom out force, a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, along with a buttery and creamy typing experience, the WS Morandi switches may be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features and a smooth typing experience, so carefully weigh your preferences before making a decision.
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