Dareu Aqua vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offer distinct experiences for typists and gamers alike. The Aqua switch is known for its light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switch elevates tactile typing to an art form, with a creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump that create a uniquely satisfying experience. While the Aqua switch is easy-to-press and feathery, the Ice King Tactile switch is silky, frictionless, subdued, stepped, and polished. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Durock Ice King Tactile, one key difference lies in their top housing materials. The Aqua utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is due to the stiff nature of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite their differences, both materials offer unique acoustic properties that cater to different preferences in sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Aqua and the Ice King Tactile opt for a nylon bottom housing construction. Nylon is praised for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches exhibit a similar sound profile when it comes to bottoming out keys. The presence of nylon in the bottom housing allows for a consistent typing experience across both keyboards, showcasing the reliability and versatility of this classic switch housing material.
In terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience, the different housing materials of the Aqua and Ice King Tactile contribute to varying sensations. The split between the top and bottom housing materials affects how the switches respond to keypresses. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can influence the overall typing experience, offering enthusiasts a range of options to tailor their keyboards to their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Ice King Tactile is heavier in both aspects compared to the Aqua. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Ice King Tactile has a heavier actuation force of 58 grams. Additionally, the Ice King Tactile also has a higher bottom out force of 68 grams, compared to the Aqua which has an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Ice King Tactile will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Aqua will offer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Aqua being ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch, while the Ice King Tactile is suitable for users seeking a heavier key press.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua 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 Aqua has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ice King Tactile. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the feel and response of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ice King Tactile, while those who appreciate a more substantial key press may lean towards the Aqua. Both switches offer unique benefits, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when choosing between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
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 Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signatures, providing a distinctive auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches. The Ice King Tactile, on the other hand, presents a more subdued sound profile, offering a dampened and subtle sound when pressed. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is described as easy-to-press and feathery, providing a light and effortless typing experience with minimal finger fatigue. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile offers a silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished feel, delivering a smooth and refined typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump for enhanced feedback. These qualities combine to create a satisfying tactile typing experience that blends the smoothness of the switch with an engaging feel for more tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch offer distinct qualities in sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The Aqua switch excels in providing a lighter touch with chirpy and clacky sound signatures, while the Ice King Tactile switch elevates tactile typing with a creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique experiences that can enhance your typing or gaming sessions. Regardless of the choice, both switches deliver high-quality performance and can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, consider your preferences for actuation force and sound and feel preferences. If you prefer an ultra-light actuation force and enjoy a chirpy and clacky sound, the Aqua switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force and desire a smooth tactile bump with a subdued sound, the Ice King Tactile switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the overall typing experience you wish to achieve. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and enhances your typing enjoyment.
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