Kailh Box White V2 vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the robust click of the Kailh Box White V2 and the refined tactility of the Durock Ice King Tactile. The Box White V2 is celebrated for its sharp tactile feedback and pronounced audible click, making it an ideal choice for typists who crave a loud, engaging experience that provides clear confirmation with each keystroke. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile offers a smoother and more subtle approach, characterized by a creamy, frictionless feel combined with a pronounced tactile bump. This unique interplay caters to those who appreciate a satisfying yet subdued typing experience, where each letter feels precisely controlled without the distraction of excessive noise. Both switches have their merits—whether you prefer the exciting auditory feedback of the Box White V2 or the silky sophistication of the Ice King Tactile, your choice will ultimately reflect your personal typing style. 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
45g
Actuation force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
68g
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 Tactile switches, a distinct divergence is evident in their top housings. The Box White V2 utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, a material known for producing a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to polycarbonate’s stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound created when a key is released. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile features a nylon top housing, which delivers a deeper, rounder sound profile due to nylon's softer characteristics. This key difference influences the auditory experience when typing, as the Box White V2 is likely to provide a more pronounced and incisive sound, while the Ice King Tactile imparts a fuller, more muted auditory feedback.
In terms of their bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon, which brings a consistent characteristic to the tactile experience. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both the Box White V2 and the Ice King Tactile, thereby providing a similar auditory experience. Nylon's tendency to absorb sound lessens the higher frequencies that could make the typing experience feel sharper, allowing users to enjoy a more rounded keypress sensation. Even though the top housings differ significantly in material, the similarity in bottom housing allows the two switches to share some common ground in tactile feel and sound when the key bottoms out, leading to an overall balanced auditory experience.
Overall, the contrast between the top housing materials indicates that the Kailh Box White V2 offers a brighter sound due to its polycarbonate top, while the Durock Ice King Tactile presents a softer auditory signature from its nylon top. However, the shared use of nylon in both switches' bottom housings plays an integral role in establishing a cohesive overall behavior in terms of sound dampening and tactile feedback. As a result, while users may experience different audio profiles during key releases with the unique top housing materials, the sound and feel when the switches bottom out are more closely related, fostering a sense of familiarity regardless of the switch chosen.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch to the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions and offering a less strenuous experience for users. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile switch features a heavier actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some typists and gamers may prefer for a firmer typing experience. This distinction suggests that users who favor a lighter switch should opt for the Box White V2, whereas those who appreciate a stronger tactile response might lean towards the Ice King Tactile. Overall, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference regarding weight and feedback during use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, we find that the Box White V2 measures at 3.6 mm, while the Ice King Tactile is slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This means that the Box White V2 has a longer travel distance, providing a more pronounced keypress that some users may find preferable for a heartier typing experience. In contrast, the slightly shorter travel distance of the Ice King Tactile may cater to gamers or those seeking a quicker response time, albeit at the risk of feeling a bit more abrupt. Ultimately, if you'll be opting for the most responsiveness, the Ice King Tactile could be the better choice, while the Box White V2 offers a more traditional feel with its longer travel distance.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box White V2 switches are known for their crisp and pronounced audible click, providing a very satisfying auditory feedback that many enthusiasts seek in a clicky switch. This distinctive sound characteristic makes them popular among typists who appreciate the clarity and engagement of each keystroke. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile switches present a more subdued sound profile. While they are not completely silent, they do offer a more subtle acoustic signature compared to the Box White V2. This quieter sound can be advantageous in office environments or shared spaces, where a loud click might be disruptive to others.
In terms of feel, the Box White V2 switches deliver a sharp tactile bump that provides immediate feedback as you press down on the key, a quality that typists often find encouraging and energizing. The tactile response is designed to be pronounced, allowing for a clear distinction between key presses. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switches excel in providing a silky smooth typing experience, marked by a creamy, frictionless action. The unique stepped design of the Ice King result in a tactile feel that is both refined and polished, reducing any resistance and making it feel effortless to type. The smoothness coupled with a pronounced but controlled tactile bump combines the best attributes of both tactile and clicky switches, offering a versatile typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the Kailh Box White V2 and Durock Ice King Tactile switches appeal to different preferences and typing styles. The Box White V2 is ideal for those who cherish a strong auditory cue and tactile feedback, making it excellent for enthusiastic typists and gamers alike. Meanwhile, the Ice King Tactile offers a sophisticated blend of smoothness and tactility, making it perfect for users who prioritize a refined typing experience without sacrificing tactile satisfaction. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on whether one desires the energetic sound and feel of a clicky switch or the elegant, smooth, and tactile nature of a premium tactile switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch will largely depend on your typing preferences and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you enjoy an engaging, auditory experience with every keystroke and prefer a lighter touch, the Box White V2 is an excellent choice. Its 50-gram actuation force makes it ideal for rapid typing, and the crisp, audible click will provide a satisfying feedback loop as you type away, making it especially appealing for those who thrive on a tactile and clicky response. On the other hand, if you prioritize a more subdued yet still tactile experience with a stronger actuation force, the Ice King Tactile with its 68-gram bottom-out force may serve you better. The sleek, polished feel offers a dreamy typing experience characterized by smoothness and minimal resistance, while the pronounced tactile bump ensures each keypress feels rewarding without the distraction of a loud click. Ultimately, consider your environment: if you're in a shared space where noise might be an issue, the Ice King Tactile's subdued sound will allow you to type discreetly, whereas if you're in a setting that embraces the clicks and clacks of mechanical keyboards, the Box White V2 will surely shine.
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