Kailh Box Navy vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and Durock Ice King Linear offer distinctly different typing experiences. The Box Navy is a clicky switch that provides a heavy typing experience with a distinctive sound signature reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear offers a smooth and quiet typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a satisfying click, the Box Navy is the way to go. Alternatively, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Ice King Linear may 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
60g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Durock Ice King Linear, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. However, while the bottom housing material is the same for both switches, the differentiation lies in their top housings. The Box Navy features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the Box Navy.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Box Navy allows for the switch to be clear and translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting. Meanwhile, the nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear provides a classic look and feel to the switch. Both materials have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound production and appearance, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the bottom housings may have a more significant impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch, the top housing also plays a crucial role in determining the sound when keys are released.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy and the Durock Ice King Linear comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal. While the nylon bottom housings of both switches offer a similar deep and full sound, the differences in their top housings lead to distinct characteristics in their overall sound profiles. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of the Box Navy's polycarbonate top housing or the deeper and fuller sound of the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different tastes in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, it is evident that the Box Navy is the heavier option. The Box Navy has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, providing a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Ice King Linear is lighter, with an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions. Both switches offer different typing experiences due to their varying weight characteristics. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Ice King Linear, while those who enjoy a heavier feel may opt for the Box Navy. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing needs.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. However, the Box Navy has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ice King Linear. This means that if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth to the keystrokes, the Box Navy may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more immediate and responsive feel, the Ice King Linear with its slightly shorter travel distance could be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences for the typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Box Navy switch is known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, creating a loud and satisfying click with each keypress. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a more subdued sound, providing a quieter typing experience that is less disruptive to others. The sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so it's important to consider the overall setup when choosing a switch based on sound preference.
When it comes to feel, the Box Navy switch is characterized by its sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback, offering a highly tactile typing experience that requires a bit more force to actuate. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear switch provides a silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished feel, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke with minimal resistance. The choice between these two switches boils down to whether you prefer a heavy and tactile typing experience with the Box Navy or a smooth and linear feel with the Ice King Linear.
In conclusion, if you enjoy a loud and tactile typing experience reminiscent of vintage keyboards, the Kailh Box Navy switch is a fantastic choice. However, if you prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience with generous factory lubrication, the Durock Ice King Linear switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider your sound and feel preferences when selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for your setup.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a high-pitched and crisp sound profile, as well as a sharp tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more subdued typing experience with a medium actuation force and minimal resistance, the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style, preference for sound and feel, as well as the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve. Make sure to consider all these factors before making your final decision on which switch to choose for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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