Gateron Beer vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch to the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, both switches offer a unique tactile typing experience. The Gateron Beer switch evokes the sparkling allure of a Tsingtao beer bottle with its mesmerizing translucent green color. It is known for its refreshingly lightweight feel and stepped tactility, providing a subtler tactile feedback compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch blends creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, creating a symphony of touch that is uniquely satisfying. Each switch has its own set of characteristics and benefits, with the Beer switch being categorized as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Stepped' and the Ice King Tactile switch as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', 'Polished'. 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
38g
Actuation force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Durock Ice King Tactile, we can see that the Beer utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, while the Ice King Tactile uses nylon for both components. Polycarbonate is described as creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a more resonant sound. On the other hand, nylon, being a softer plastic, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound. This means that typing on the Beer switches may produce a sharper sound, while typing on the Ice King Tactile switches may result in a softer and rounder sound.
The choice of housing material for both the top and bottom components can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch. With the Beer switches featuring polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, the sharp and clear sound created by the stiffness of the polycarbonate material is likely to be consistent throughout the typing experience. Conversely, the Ice King Tactile switches, with nylon used for both housing components, may provide a more consistent deep and full sound due to the softer nature of nylon. Both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, providing users with options based on their sound preferences.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches differ, the impact of these materials on the overall sound profile of the switches remains a crucial factor. The split between the top and bottom housing qualities means that the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the sound and feel during key presses, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Whether opting for the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the Beer switches or the deeper sound of nylon in the Ice King Tactile switches, users can select based on their preference for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Beer is the lighter option with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile is the heavier option with an actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback, but the Ice King Tactile would be more suitable for users looking for a medium-heavy typing experience.Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the Beer offering a lighter typing feel and the Ice King Tactile providing a heavier and more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm. Both switches are relatively close in terms of travel distance, with the Ice King Tactile being slightly longer than the Beer. In terms of overall feel, the Beer may provide a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for increased speed. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile may offer a bit more resistance and depth during keystrokes, which some users may find more satisfying for typing or general use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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 Gateron Beer tactile switch produces a characteristic clacky sound when pressed, offering a sharp and snappy auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch provides a more subdued sound, creating a dampened and subtle auditory feedback. Depending on the user's preference, the Beer switch delivers a more striking and percussive sound, while the Ice King Tactile switch offers a quieter and more understated typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press and boasting a stepped tactility. These switches require minimal force to activate, providing a gentle resistance during key presses. Additionally, the stepped tactility offers a mild two-stage feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is described as silky, frictionless, polished, and also features a stepped tactility. These switches offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance, enhancing the overall smoothness and comfort during typing sessions.
Overall, the Gateron Beer tactile switch excels in providing a unique and refreshingly lightweight typing experience with a characteristic clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch elevates tactile typing to an art form, blending creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump for a satisfying tactile experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the sharper and snappier sound of the Beer switch or the more subdued and silky typing experience of the Ice King Tactile switch. Both switches offer differentiated qualities in sound and feel, catering to a variety of user preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter switch with a distinctive clacky sound and a stepped tactile feel, the Gateron Beer switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a subdued sound, and a silky, frictionless, polished typing experience, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch could be the ideal fit for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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