Durock Ice King Tactile vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Tactile and KTT Rose offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Ice King Tactile is renowned for its creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, creating a satisfying typing experience that combines the best of both worlds. In contrast, the Rose switch is praised for its use of progressive springs, offering a substantial yet not heavy typing feel with a hint of bassy raindrops. While the Ice King Tactile is categorized as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', and 'Polished', the Rose switch is described as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different users based on their 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Tactile and the KTT Rose both feature nylon bottom housings, which provide a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile has a nylon top housing, while the Rose has a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Rose creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the duller sound of the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing. This difference in top housing material affects the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
While the nylon bottom housings of both the Ice King Tactile and the Rose provide a similar deep and full sound profile, the difference in top housing material sets them apart. The Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing gives a softer and rounder sound when pressed compared to the sharper and crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Rose. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing in the Rose allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic element to the switch that the Ice King Tactile lacks with its opaque nylon top housing. These differences in top housing material showcase how the choice of material can significantly impact the sound and appearance of a switch.
In summary, while both the Durock Ice King Tactile and the KTT Rose share nylon bottom housing materials that create a similar deep and full sound profile, their top housing materials set them apart. The Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing produces a softer and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Rose offers a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing in the Rose allows for RGB lighting effects that the Ice King Tactile's opaque nylon top housing cannot achieve. These differences in housing materials highlight the impact that material choice can have on the overall sound and visual experience of using mechanical switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the KTT Rose linear switch both fall into the medium-heavy category. The Ice King Tactile has a slightly lighter actuation force of 58 grams compared to the Rose's unknown actuation force. However, the Ice King Tactile has a heavier bottom out force of 68 grams compared to the Rose's 63.5 grams. This means that the Ice King Tactile may provide a slightly lighter initial keypress, but a firmer bottom out feel. Both switches offer a substantial typing experience, with the Rose being slightly lighter overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the KTT Rose linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ice King Tactile switch offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Rose linear switch provides a more substantial depth when pressed, which some users may prefer for a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and response time.
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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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
When it comes to sound, the Ice King Tactile offers a subdued and dampened typing experience, which can be pleasing to those who prefer a quieter switch. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch produces a low-pitched and bass-heavy sound profile that adds a unique depth to the typing experience. If you enjoy a more subtle sound, the Ice King Tactile would be the preferred choice, while the Rose switch provides a more robust and melodic typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Tactile is known for its silky, frictionless, and stepped characteristics, providing a smooth and tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump. It offers a refined and polished feel that enhances typing comfort. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches provide a smooth key travel, with the Ice King Tactile offering a slightly more pronounced tactile feedback compared to the Rose switch.
Overall, the Ice King Tactile excels in providing a uniquely satisfying tactile typing experience with a symphony of touch, while the KTT Rose switch offers a substantial yet not heavy typing experience with a bass-heavy sound profile. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a delightful typing experience. With the Ice King Tactile, you'll get a more pronounced tactile feedback and a subtle sound, while the KTT Rose switch offers a gentler typing experience with a low-pitched sound. Both switches offer a polished and smooth typing feel that enhances the overall typing comfort.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the KTT Rose switches, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a unique tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and creamy smoothness, the Ice King Tactile would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a substantial yet not heavy typing experience with progressive springs and a low-pitched sound, the KTT Rose switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value the symphony of touch offered by the Ice King Tactile or the bassy raindrops sensation of the Rose switches. Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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