Durock Black Lotus vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Black Lotus and the Durock Ice King Tactile stand out as top contenders. The Black Lotus is a linear switch that boasts a silky smooth feel and precise actuation, while also reducing wobble for a more stable typing experience. With a 55g actuation weight, it provides just the right amount of resistance without feeling too heavy. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile is a tactile switch that offers a unique blend of creamy smoothness and a pronounced tactile bump, creating a satisfying typing experience. This switch combines the best of both worlds with finesse, giving users a tactile feedback that is both smooth and defined. 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
55g
Actuation force
58g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
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
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The Durock Black Lotus and Ice King Tactile switches both feature a nylon top housing material, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic top housings. Despite both switches sharing this material for the top housing, they may still offer a unique typing experience based on other factors such as stem type and spring weight.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Black Lotus features a modified PC & UPE Blend bottom housing, while the Ice King Tactile also utilizes a nylon bottom housing. The Black Lotus's bottom housing material may offer a different typing experience compared to the Ice King Tactile due to its unique blend and composition. This difference in bottom housing material could impact the overall feel and sound of the switch when pressed and released.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Durock Black Lotus and Ice King Tactile switches contributes to their distinct characteristics and typing experiences. While both switches share a nylon top housing for a deeper sound profile, the unique blend of PC & UPE in the Black Lotus's bottom housing may offer a different tactile feel compared to the Ice King Tactile's nylon bottom housing. It is important to consider these housing materials when selecting a switch for a personalized typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, we can see that both switches fall into the medium-heavy category. The Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Ice King Tactile has an actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams. This means that the Ice King Tactile is slightly heavier in both categories compared to the Black Lotus. However, both switches provide a substantial typing experience with a noticeable amount of force required to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. If you prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Black Lotus may be the better choice. Conversely, if you prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the Ice King Tactile might be more suitable. Whichever switch you choose, both will provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Ice King Tactile switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Black Lotus. The Black Lotus is more traditional with its 4 mm travel distance, while the Ice King Tactile offers a slightly shallower 3.5 mm distance. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ice King Tactile, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Black Lotus. Both switches provide different tactile experiences, so choosing between the two would come down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
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
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch is best known for its silky smooth feel and precision, with a 55g actuation weight that is substantial yet not too heavy. This switch reduces housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure, and features a unique light column for in-switch lighting that is fully removable. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch offers a creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, creating a satisfying tactile experience that merges the best of both worlds with finesse. The Ice King Tactile switch also has a subdued sound, producing a dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. In terms of feel, both switches are described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. The Ice King Tactile switch also offers a frictionless and stepped feel, with two stages of tactility for a unique typing sensation. Overall, while the Black Lotus and Ice King Tactile switches have their own unique qualities, both offer a smooth and polished typing experience that will satisfy users looking for precision and tactile feedback in their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a smooth and precise typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. The Black Lotus offers a silky feel with a unique light column for in-switch lighting, making it a top contender for those who prioritize smoothness and precision in their typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a pronounced bump and a slightly higher bottom out force, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch would be a great fit. The Ice King Tactile provides a creamy smooth typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump, offering a blend of smoothness and tactility that many users enjoy. Ultimately, your decision between the Black Lotus and Ice King Tactile will depend on your preference for linear or tactile switches, bottom out force, and overall typing experience you seek. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer unique characteristics that can elevate your typing experience to new heights.
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