Kailh Box White V2 vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Ice King Linear stand out as two compelling options, each offering a distinctive typing experience tailored to different user preferences. The Box White V2 is celebrated for its clicky feedback, providing a crisp tactile response and an audible click that many typists and gamers find satisfying and engaging. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy the sound and feel of traditional typing, as it can enhance the overall engagement with the keyboard while improving typing accuracy through its tactile nature. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear excels in delivering a silky-smooth and frictionless keystroke, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lubrication, making it perfect for users who prioritize a quieter, more subdued experience without the distraction of audible clicks. The creamy and polished feel of the Ice King Linear switch caters particularly well to gamers and typists aiming for swift and uninterrupted key presses. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Ice King Linear switches, a distinct difference becomes evident in the composition of their top housings. The Kailh Box White V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer structure that produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. Conversely, the Durock Ice King Linear uses a nylon top housing, characterized by its softer material that absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller acoustic experience. This fundamental contrast between polycarbonate and nylon indicates that users seeking a bright sound signature might prefer the Box White V2, whereas those who favor a more muted sound might gravitate towards the Durock Ice King Linear.
Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which equalizes them somewhat in terms of the bottom-out experience. As noted, typing on switches that employ nylon delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its sound-absorbing properties. This characteristic leads to a duller and rounder sound, making the bottom housing have a more pronounced influence on the overall feel and acoustic signature when the switch bottoms out. Therefore, while the top housings diverge in material choice and effects, the nylon bottom provides a consistent auditory experience that may appeal to both switch types.
In terms of lighting aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Kailh Box White V2 stands out for its translucency, making it particularly advantageous for users who want to showcase RGB lighting effects. The nylon top of the Ice King Linear, being less transparent, may not deliver the same visual impact. Nonetheless, both switches can create a compelling typing experience, especially since they share the same nylon material in their bottom housings. Ultimately, despite their differing acoustic profiles stemming from the top housing materials, users can still achieve satisfying results through the well-balanced characteristics offered by the nylon components, ensuring a solid and enjoyable typing experience across both switch designs.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White V2 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those seeking a keyboard that facilitates longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Ice King Linear requires a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and has a bottom out force of 62 grams, catering to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Consequently, the Kailh Box White V2 is the lighter option, while the Durock Ice King is the heavier switch. This distinction can influence your choice depending on whether you prioritize a lighter touch for endurance or a firmer key response for tactile satisfaction.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch, there is a slight difference that might influence user preference. The Box White V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ice King Linear has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Durock Ice King Linear the shorter option, which could be more appealing for gamers seeking quicker response times. On the other hand, the Box White V2 offers a bit more depth at 3.6 mm, which may satisfy those who prefer a more substantial keystroke feel. Both switches fall within a range that is quite common in mechanical keyboards, with neither being extremely shallow nor overly deep, thereby catering to diverse user preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether one prioritizes rapid response or a more pronounced keypress experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh Box White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
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 Kailh Box White V2 switch is celebrated for its distinct and crisp audible click that accompanies each keystroke, providing an engaging auditory feedback that many typists and gamers find satisfying. This sharp click is a signature trait of clicky switches, making them a perfect choice for those who appreciate that audible confirmation of their inputs. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch has a more subdued sound profile. It produces a dampened sound when pressed, offering a subtle auditory experience that contrasts with the aggressive clicks of the Box White V2. This quieter operation can be preferable in shared spaces or for users who prefer a less intrusive typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White V2 delivers a tactile feedback that is noticeable and sharp, providing an enjoyable sensation as you press the switch. This characteristic is especially liked by users who enjoy a pronounced tactile experience while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear is praised for its silky smoothness, with descriptors like frictionless and creamy highlighting its effortless key travel. This switch minimizes any sense of resistance, allowing for a fluid typing experience that feels seamless and luxurious. Users can expect a polished feel thanks to its factory lubrication, which enhances the overall typing experience with reduced friction.
Ultimately, choosing between the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Ice King Linear switch comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. For those who enjoy an auditory experience with a clear tactile feedback, the Box White V2 excels as a clicky switch. Conversely, if you prioritize smoothness and a more muted sound, the Ice King enhances your typing with its luxurious texture and mild sound signature. Both provide unique qualities that cater to different types of users, ensuring that whether you prefer tactile feedback and clickiness or a serene, smooth typing experience, there is a switch that suits your style.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Ice King Linear depends largely on your typing preferences and the environment in which you’ll be using your mechanical keyboard. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a distinct audible click, favor a lighter actuation force, and don’t mind a bit of noise while typing, the Kailh Box White V2 is an excellent option. It’s particularly suited for office settings where you want to receive feedback from each key press, enhancing your typing accuracy and enjoyment. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more subdued experience that allows for long periods of typing with less fatigue, the Durock Ice King Linear will likely serve you better. With its medium actuation force and silky smooth feel, it’s ideal for those who type extensively or game, as it provides a quiet operation without sacrificing responsiveness. Ultimately, your decision should be influenced by whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound or smoothness and quietness in your typing experience.
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