Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Cherry Nixie. The Ice King Tactile is a tactile switch that is renowned for its creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, offering a uniquely satisfying typing experience with a blend of smoothness and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is a linear switch that is known for its substantial heft and textured typing feel, embodying a traditional yet innovative design with updated materials and springs. While the Ice King Tactile excels in providing a balanced tactile experience, the Cherry Nixie offers a more textured and low-pitched typing feel. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Nylon
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
Housing materials
Both the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Cherry Nixie utilize nylon for their top and bottom housing materials. This means that when typing on switches from either of these keyboards, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound than other harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon creates a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience for those who prefer a quieter switch.
While both switches have similar housing materials, the distribution of these materials within the switch can affect the typing experience. In switches where the top and bottom housings are different, such as the Ice King Tactile, the qualities of each housing material will impact different aspects of typing. The bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will have more of an impact on the sound when releasing the key. This nuanced interplay between the top and bottom housings can result in a unique typing experience for users of these switches.
Overall, the similarities in housing materials between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Cherry Nixie mean that users can expect comparable results when typing on either of these switches. The use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings creates a consistent typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether typing on the Ice King Tactile or the Nixie, users can enjoy a quieter typing experience with a duller and rounder sound, thanks to the absorbing properties of nylon. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference and any additional features or qualities that differentiate one from the other.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 58 grams compared to the Cherry Nixie linear switch, which has an actuation force of 63.5 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ice King Tactile requires 68 grams, while the Nixie requires a heavier 80 grams. The Ice King Tactile offers a medium-heavy feel overall, with a slightly lighter actuation force but a similar bottom out force. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie provides a heavier typing experience, with both the actuation and bottom out forces being on the heavier side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feeling and force required for keystrokes, with the Ice King Tactile being a slightly lighter option and the Cherry Nixie offering a heavier, more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Cherry Nixie linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ice King Tactile offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for fast reaction speeds. On the other hand, the Nixie switch provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer different tactile feedback and actuation points, so the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing experience.
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 Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.15.
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 offers a more subdued and dampened sound when pressed, providing a quieter typing experience compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, delivering a deep and satisfying sound with each key press. While both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, the Ice King Tactile will result in a more subtle and softened sound, whereas the Nixie will produce a richer and bass-heavy tone.
When it comes to feel, the Ice King Tactile switch is renowned for its silky and frictionless typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless keystroke. With a polished finish, the Ice King Tactile provides reduced friction and a sleek typing feel, making it a joy to type on. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is described as textured, meaning it has noticeable friction when pressed. This may result in a more pronounced tactile feedback and a different typing experience compared to the Ice King Tactile.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the Ice King Tactile switch is ideal for those seeking a quieter and smoother typing experience, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch is suited for individuals looking for a deeper and textured feel with each key press. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel during typing. If you prefer a more subdued and dampened sound with a silky smooth feel, the Ice King Tactile switch would be the optimal choice. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a thocky, low-pitched sound with a textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie linear switch would be a great fit.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Ice King Tactile or the Cherry Nixie switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a creamy smooth feel and pronounced tactile bump, then the Ice King Tactile may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you favor a heavier switch with a substantial heft and a textured typing experience, then the Cherry Nixie linear switch could be more to your liking. Additionally, if you enjoy a subdued sound and a silky, frictionless feel, the Ice King Tactile may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a thocky, low-pitched sound and a textured typing experience, the Nixie might be the better option for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique and satisfying typing experiences, and your decision should be based on what feels best to you. So, make your choice based on what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch and enjoy your typing experience to the fullest.
Mentioned in this article
