Keygeek Briny vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style. The Keygeek Briny, a linear switch, is celebrated for its balanced sound profile thanks to its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, making it an excellent option for those who prefer smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes that are ideal for both typing and gaming. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile provides a distinctive tactile experience that elevates typing to an art form. Its creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump create a uniquely satisfying sensation, capturing the attention of users who enjoy a responsive touch with every press. While the Briny caters to enthusiasts seeking a linear feel, the Ice King Tactile appeals to those who appreciate the nuanced feedback of a tactile switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
68g
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 the Durock Ice King Tactile switches share a significant similarity in their material composition, as both feature nylon for their top and bottom housings. This common choice leverages nylon's inherent properties, which contribute to producing a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, is distinguished by its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a sound that is both duller and rounder. Therefore, users can expect a consistent auditory experience when engaging with either of these switches, as both are designed to minimize harsh sounds and maintain a balanced acoustic signature.
Despite utilizing the same housing material, the experiences provided by each switch could diverge based on other design aspects and internal components. However, since the top and bottom housings are identical in both the Briny and Ice King Tactile, the interactions with the switch can manifest similarly. Each switch’s bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, while the top housing's characteristics become more prominent in the sound generated when releasing a key. Consequently, while the switches might offer different tactile experiences due to unique internal designs or spring tensions, their shared nylon housing ensures a fundamentally similar acoustic profile throughout the typing experience.
In summary, both the Keygeek Briny and Durock Ice King Tactile switches serve as excellent examples of how materials can influence auditory feedback in mechanical keyboards. With nylon traditional to both switch designs, they cater to users who appreciate a quieter, more subdued typing experience. As users operate the switches, they will likely perceive a consistent acoustical quality thanks to the shared material properties, lending each switch its own distinct flair while still adhering to the essential benefits that nylon provides. Hence, anyone seeking a deeper, more resonant typing sound and feel will find common ground in both the Briny and Ice King Tactile switches.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it relatively lighter and suitable for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, especially during long sessions. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile switch features a higher actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This heavier feel may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Thus, while the actuation force of the Briny allows for quicker and lighter keystrokes, the Ice King provides a firmer response, which can be preferable for tactile feedback enthusiasts. Ultimately, if a user is looking for a lighter switch, the Briny would be the better option, while the Ice King would suit those who favor a heavier touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, we see a slight difference that may influence user preference. The Briny features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ice King Tactile has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Briny the longer switch by just 0.1 mm. For gamers or those who favor a more responsive experience, the shorter travel distance of the Ice King Tactile may be more appealing, as it allows for quicker key presses. Conversely, the Briny's longer travel distance might be preferred by users who enjoy a more pronounced depth and feedback when typing. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize responsiveness or a more robust typing experience.
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 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 Keygeek Briny linear switch is known for producing a balanced sound profile. This suggests a pleasant auditory experience that isn't overly loud or harsh, making it suitable for various environments. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a more subdued sound, which means it produces a dampened auditory feedback when pressed. While it isn't entirely silent, it provides a more subtle sound signature compared to many other switches, thus making it a great option for users seeking a quieter typing experience without sacrificing tactile feedback.
In terms of feel, the Briny linear switch is characterized by its smoothness as a linear switch usually does, promoting an uninterrupted keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switch takes the tactile experience up a notch with its engaging blend of silky smoothness and a pronounced tactile bump. The tactile feedback of the Ice King enhances the typing experience by providing a noticeable tactile event as each key is pressed, creating an enjoyable tactile sensation. Furthermore, the Ice King embodies a frictionless quality that minimizes resistance during typing, making each stroke feel fluid. The combination of being a stepped switch adds to its nuanced feel, offering distinct stages in the keystroke that contribute to the overall typing experience, while the polished nature of the switch results in reduced friction for smooth travel.
Overall, both the Keygeek Briny and Durock Ice King Tactile switches possess unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. If you prefer a more balanced, quieter typing experience, the Briny’s linear design may suit you well. Conversely, if you seek a tactile switch that combines smoothness with satisfying feedback, the Ice King offers a compelling choice. While the two switches differ significantly in feel, they can each deliver a satisfying typing experience tailored to personal preferences, whether one favors the subtle strength of tactility or the smooth glide of linear strokes.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, consider your typing style and preferences. If you enjoy a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience, the Briny is an excellent choice, particularly due to its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, which strikes a good balance for extended typing sessions. Its balanced sound profile makes it a suitable option for quiet environments where you still want a satisfying feel without excessive noise. On the other hand, if you are drawn to tactile feedback with a pronounced bump, the Ice King Tactile switch, with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 68 grams, offers a unique tactile experience that elevates your typing to new heights. The silky, frictionless feel combined with its polished design ensures an enjoyable typing experience, making it perfect for those who seek both tactile satisfaction and smoothness in their key presses. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preferences—whether you lean towards the smooth and steady nature of the Briny or the refined tactile artistry of the Ice King.
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