HMX Blue Topaz vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Durock Ice King Tactile offer distinct features for different typing preferences. The Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing effortless and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switch excels in providing a creamy smoothness paired with a pronounced tactile bump for a satisfying typing experience. While the Blue Topaz offers an easy-to-press and clacky typing experience, the Ice King Tactile provides a silky, frictionless, subdued, stepped, and polished feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and 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
40g
Actuation force
58g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Durock Ice King Tactile, one can see that they both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile uses a nylon top housing that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Blue Topaz may be preferred for its clear and resonant sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting.
On the bottom housing side, both switches utilize nylon for a similar purpose - to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing and the Ice King Tactile's nylon bottom housing help to create that duller and rounder sound that typists may appreciate. The absorption of sound by the softer nylon plastic in the bottom housing contributes to the overall typing experience and can make each keystroke feel more satisfying. While the top housing may have a more noticeable impact on sound upon key release, the bottom housing contributes significantly to the typing experience during key press.
Overall, despite the differences in their housing materials, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Durock Ice King Tactile both aim to enhance the typing experience through the use of distinct plastics. Whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Blue Topaz or the softer nylon top housing of the Ice King Tactile, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Additionally, the presence of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a deeper and fuller sound profile that may appeal to those seeking a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, while the materials may differ, the end result in terms of sound and feel may be quite similar between these two switches.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams. The Blue Topaz provides a softer typing experience with a lighter touch, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions where fatigue is a concern. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile offers a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, catering to users who prefer a more pronounced feedback while typing. Both switches have their own advantages, with the Blue Topaz offering a lighter touch and the Ice King Tactile providing a heavier typing experience for those who enjoy a more tactile feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Blue Topaz has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ice King Tactile. In terms of responsiveness, gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ice King Tactile for faster response times, while others who prefer a more distinct keypress may opt for the longer travel distance of the Blue Topaz. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
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 HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky sound signature that is sharp, snappy, and percussive, providing an audibly satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch produces a more subdued sound, offering a quieter and more subtle typing experience compared to most switches. Both switches deliver distinct auditory feedback, with the Blue Topaz emphasizing a crisp clackiness and the Ice King Tactile showcasing a dampened sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a light and effortless typing experience that enhances user comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended use. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch provides a silky smooth typing experience with a frictionless key travel, designed to minimize resistance and offer a fluid keystroke. Additionally, the Ice King Tactile switch is described as having a stepped feel, which provides a more nuanced tactile feedback with distinct pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations, adding depth to the typing experience.
Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Topaz excels in providing a clacky sound and easy actuation, the Ice King Tactile stands out for its smooth and tactile typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer exceptional performance and can cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, selecting between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound feedback and typing feel, with either switch providing a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a smooth and effortless typing feel with a lightweight actuation force, the Blue Topaz may be the ideal choice for you. Its clacky sound signature and easy-to-press nature make it a joy to type on. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile bump and a creamy smoothness in your typing experience, the Ice King Tactile could be the perfect fit. Its unique blend of tactile feedback and smooth key travel offers a satisfying typing experience that is unmatched. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall feel and sound you desire in a keyboard switch. Choose wisely to enhance your typing experience and enjoy every keystroke.
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