Keygeek Briny vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect linear switch for your mechanical keyboard, two noteworthy contenders emerge: the Keygeek Briny and the Durock Ice King Linear. The Briny, recognized for its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, offers a well-balanced sound profile, making it an appealing choice for users seeking a subtle auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear boasts a full nylon construction and generous factory lube, which promises a silky smooth and frictionless typing experience, ideal for those who prioritize buttery consistency and a polished feel in their keystrokes. While both switches cater to enthusiasts looking for a linear switch experience, their unique compositions deliver different tactile feedback and acoustic qualities. 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
42g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The Keygeek Briny and Durock Ice King Linear switches share a notable similarity in their housing materials, as both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality contributes to a sound profile characterized as deeper and fuller, stemming from nylon's inherent properties. Specifically, the softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. This results in a dulled, rounder auditory experience when typing, making both switches appealing to users who value acoustic subtleties in their keyboard sounds. Consequently, users of either switch can expect a comparable auditory feedback, which enhances the overall typing experience.
While both the Briny and Ice King Linear switches use nylon for their housings, the impact of these materials can vary subtly based on design specifics and other components of the switches. Each switch's bottom housing, which significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel during key presses, will inherit the same overall sonic qualities due to nylon’s properties. When a key is pressed, users will experience a consistent auditory sensation across both switches. This simultaneous use of nylon not only underscores the intended acoustic qualities but also establishes a familiarity that keyboard enthusiasts often seek when exploring different switch options.
However, even with identical housing materials, potential nuances in feel and sound could arise from additional factors such as the switch mechanism and spring configurations within each switch. The feel when releasing a key may also differ slightly between the Briny and Ice King Linear due to each switch's unique design or intended purpose. Thus, while the foundational materials contribute to a harmonious sound profile, it is the synergy of all elements involved in the switches that ultimately defines the user experience. Despite these potential differences, users can anticipate similar results in terms of sound quality due to the consistent nylon components within both switches.
Weight
The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch present some interesting comparisons in actuation and bottom-out forces. The Briny has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the Ice King Linear slightly exceeds this with an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. Thus, while both switches fall within the medium weight category, the Durock Ice King is the heavier option with its slightly increased force requirements. This means that users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Ice King, while those who appreciate a lighter touch might find the Briny more comfortable for extended typing sessions. Overall, both switches are relatively close in performance, and users can expect similar results in terms of feel, although the Ice King offers a bit more resistance.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Briny linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Ice King Linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Briny the longer of the two switches, offering a bit more depth with each keystroke. For users who prefer a more substantial feel and depth in their typing experience, the Briny may be the more suitable choice. Conversely, those who favor quicker response times and a more immediate feedback mechanism might gravitate toward the Ice King due to its shorter travel distance. Both switches cater to different preferences in the typing experience, but they are relatively close in travel distance, offering a minimal distinction that can lead to similar performance results depending on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Briny has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Briny for $3.29.
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
In terms of sound, the Keygeek Briny linear switch is known for a balanced sound profile, which suggests it strikes a harmonious tone without being overly harsh or muted. This makes it versatile for various environments, providing a pleasant auditory feedback that suits both typing and gaming. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch's sound characteristics aren't explicitly detailed, but it is constructed from full nylon which can imply a sound that may be slightly softer or more muted compared to traditional plastic switches. Ultimately, both switches will produce different acoustics depending on additional factors like the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps, but you can expect the Briny to offer a more defined tonality while the Ice King may present a smoother sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the differences between the two switches become more prominent. The Briny's feel is not specified, leaving its textural experience open to interpretation. However, the Ice King Linear is celebrated for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished sensations. These characteristics make the Ice King stand out as offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience, almost gliding effortlessly under your fingers. Users can expect a high degree of comfort and ease during extended typing sessions with the Ice King, while the Briny's feel remains a mystery, suggesting that it could range from satisfactory to impressive based on its construction.
In conclusion, while the Keygeek Briny linear switch presents a balanced sound profile, the Durock Ice King Linear switch excels in providing a remarkably smooth and aesthetically pleasing feel with its premium materials and factory lubrication. The Briny may provide satisfactory auditory quality for many users, but without additional details on its feel, the Ice King appears to be the clear winner in that category. Ultimately, both switches could be appealing depending on personal preferences, and trying them first-hand would provide the best gauge of what suits your typing or gaming style.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences regarding sound and feel in your typing experience. If you prefer a balanced sound profile and are looking for a switch that offers medium actuation force with reliable performance, the Briny is an excellent choice. Its UPE stem and PA66 bottom housing create a harmonious auditory experience, making it a solid option for those seeking a traditional yet enjoyable typing feel. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience, the Ice King Linear should be your go-to. With its full nylon construction and generous factory lubrication, it excels in providing a frictionless and creamy sensation with each keystroke, making it ideal for typists who value a refined and polished touch. In essence, your ideal switch will depend on whether you lean towards a balanced sound and dependable performance or a luxurious feel with superior smoothness.
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