Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Durock Light Tactile both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Ice King Tactile is renowned for its smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience with a touch of finesse. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch offers a gentler tactility that stands out from sharper tactile switches in the market, accompanied by a pleasant jelly-like sound signature. While the Ice King Tactile is described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', and 'Polished', the Light Tactile is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own strengths that appeal to different users, making them both viable options depending on individual preferences. 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
58g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Durock Light Tactile, the main difference lies in the top housing material used. The Ice King Tactile features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Light Tactile utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. This contrast in materials leads to a noticeable difference in the overall sound and tactile feedback of the switches.
While the top housings of the Ice King Tactile and the Light Tactile differ in material, their bottom housings are both made of nylon. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback when it comes to bottom-out sound and feel. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Durock Light Tactile may come down to personal preference in sound and feel. The Ice King Tactile, with its nylon top and bottom housing, provides a deep and full sound profile, while the Light Tactile, with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing, delivers a sharper and crisper sound profile. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of materials used in their housing, allowing users to select the one that best suits their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, we can see that both switches have a similar medium-heavy feel. The Ice King Tactile has a slightly higher actuation force of 58 grams compared to the Light Tactile's 52 grams, while their bottom out forces are 68 grams and 67 grams, respectively. This means that while the Ice King Tactile requires a slightly heavier initial push, both switches will provide a substantial typing experience once fully pressed. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Light Tactile may be the better option. However, for those who enjoy a stronger push feel for added feedback, the Ice King Tactile would be the suitable choice. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium-heavy tactile experience that caters to different preferences.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing experience for users. Those who prefer a quicker response time may lean towards the Ice King Tactile with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more pronounced key press may opt for the Light Tactile with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and typing style.
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 Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 Durock Ice King Tactile switch is described as producing a subdued sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch is characterized as having a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. When considering sound quality, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Ice King Tactile providing a more subdued experience and the Light Tactile offering a moderate and versatile sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Ice King Tactile switch is known for its silky and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless key press. Additionally, it is described as feeling stepped, providing a two-stage tactile sensation. The Light Tactile switch, on the other hand, is noted for its mild tactility, appealing to users who prefer a gentler typing experience. Both switches also share the characteristic of being polished, resulting in a sleek and refined typing feel with reduced friction.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Tactile and Light Tactile switches offer distinct tactile and auditory experiences for mechanical keyboard users. The Ice King Tactile boasts a pronounced tactile bump and creamy smoothness, providing a uniquely satisfying tactile experience. In contrast, the Light Tactile switch offers a gentle tactility and an angelic typing feel that is complemented by a jelly-like sound signature. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the Ice King Tactile for a more pronounced tactile experience or the Light Tactile for a softer and more approachable typing sensation. While the two switches offer different subjective qualities, users can expect a high level of quality and performance from both options.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Durock Light Tactile switches, consider the type of tactile typing experience you prefer. If you seek a more pronounced tactile bump and a symphony of touch, the Ice King Tactile is the way to go. Its silky, frictionless feel will provide you with a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentler tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, opt for the Light Tactile switch. It offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, so the decision ultimately comes down to your personal preference for tactile feedback and sound profile.
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