Bsun Avocado vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Avocado tactile switch to the Durock Ice King Linear switch, it's evident that they both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Avocado switch is praised for providing a tactile experience that is both snappy and buttery, with a pronounced feedback that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear offers a silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. While the Avocado switch is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Ice King Linear is labeled as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Polished'. If you prefer a tactile switch with satisfying feedback, the Avocado might be the way to go. However, if you lean towards a smoother, quieter typing experience, the Ice King Linear could be more up your alley. 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
45g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Avocado and Durock Ice King Linear keyboards both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The Avocado utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Ice King Linear uses a nylon top housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature. While the Avocado's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, creating a rounder tone.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Avocado and Ice King Linear keyboards feature nylon housings. This material absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. As a result, typing on switches that use nylon for the bottom housing will elicit a deeper and fuller sound. While the Avocado and Ice King Linear keyboards have different top housings, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a similar sound profile in terms of depth and fullness when typing on either keyboard.
Overall, the choice of housing material for switches in mechanical keyboards plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of the typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Avocado creates a clear and resonant sound, while the nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear produces a deeper and fuller tone. Similarly, both keyboards feature nylon bottom housings, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that adds to the overall typing experience. Whether opting for the Avocado or Ice King Linear, users can expect a unique sound and feel based on the combination of housing materials used in these mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch with an actuation force of 52 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Avocado requires a heavier 65 grams in comparison to the Ice King at 62 grams. This means that the Avocado provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while the Ice King offers a lighter actuation force for quicker key presses. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy range, making them suitable for users who prefer a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on whether the user prioritizes a lighter actuation force or a heavier bottom out force in their keyboard typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch is 3.4 mm, while the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches are relatively short in travel distance compared to traditional switches. However, the Ice King Linear has a slightly longer travel distance than the Avocado. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Avocado for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may lean towards the slightly longer travel distance of the Ice King Linear. Overall, both switches offer a modern, shorter travel distance that is becoming increasingly popular in the keyboard community.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
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.
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 Bsun Avocado switch provides a mild and neutral sound that complements its tactile experience, offering a pleasant typing background. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is described as producing a subdued sound, adding a subtle touch to each keystroke. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so choosing the right combination is essential to achieving the desired sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Avocado switch is highlighted by its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, creating a responsive and immersive typing sensation. The switch also boasts a snappy feel, enhancing the overall typing experience with its reactive nature. Conversely, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is celebrated for its silky and frictionless typing experience, characterized by smooth key travel and reduced resistance. The switch's creamy and polished qualities further contribute to a buttery and refined typing feel, perfect for those seeking a luxurious typing experience.
In conclusion, the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Avocado switch delivers a pronounced tactile experience with a mild sound profile, the Ice King Linear switch provides a smooth and frictionless typing feel with a subdued sound signature. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience, as both options promise a high level of quality and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Avocado tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile bump with satisfying feedback and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Avocado switch may be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a silky smooth typing experience with a medium bottom out force and minimal sound, the Ice King Linear switch could be a better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for tactility, sound, and overall typing feel. Explore the unique characteristics of each switch to find the one that suits your typing style best.
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