Bsun Pine vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between a tactile switch like the Bsun Pine and a linear switch like the Durock Ice King Linear can make a significant difference in your typing experience. The Bsun Pine switches are lauded for their sharp tactile bump and fast action, providing a direct and no-nonsense tactility that is invigorating and snappy. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switches offer a silky-smooth typing experience with their full nylon construction and generous factory lube, giving a subdued and creamy feel that is polished and frictionless. While both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, 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
52g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
The Bsun Pine and the Durock Ice King Linear both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The Pine utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially when combined with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear incorporates a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic composition. While both materials have distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the Pine offers a more resonant sound, while the nylon of the Ice King Linear absorbs more sound for a rounder tone.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Pine and the Ice King Linear use nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The similarities in bottom housing material highlight the importance of the housing material in determining the overall sound profile of a switch. Despite differences in top housing materials, the use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches ensures a consistent depth and fullness in sound when typing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Bsun Pine and the Durock Ice King Linear plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile of each switch. While the Pine's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a consistent depth and richness in sound. The different combinations of housing materials in each switch highlight the diverse options available to keyboard enthusiasts seeking varying sound profiles in their typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch is 45 grams, while the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has an actuation force of 52 grams. This means that the Ice King Linear switch requires a slightly higher force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Pine switch. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Pine switch is 65 grams, while the Ice King Linear switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This makes the Pine switch slightly heavier in terms of bottoming out compared to the Ice King Linear switch. Overall, the Pine switch has a slightly lighter actuation force but a heavier bottom out force compared to the Ice King Linear switch, offering a different typing experience for users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Ice King Linear has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Pine switch. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are popular for faster response times, especially among gamers. If you prefer a more abrupt feel, the Pine switch may be more suitable for you, while the Ice King Linear switch provides a slightly deeper press. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results due to their close proximity in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 BSUN Pine tactile switch is known for a sharp and distinct click sound when pressed, adding a satisfying auditory element to typing. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch provides a more subdued sound, offering a quieter and more subtle typing experience. The choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired level of noise during typing sessions.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Pine switch is characterized by its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, making each keypress feel responsive and precise. The tactile bump is distinct and provides a satisfying typing sensation without being overwhelming. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a silky and frictionless typing experience, with a smooth key travel that minimizes resistance and enhances overall comfort. The choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a more tactile and responsive feel or a smoother and more effortless typing experience.
Overall, the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch excels in providing a sharp tactile bump and audible feedback, while the Ice King Linear switch focuses on a smooth and quiet typing experience. Both switches have their unique strengths, and choosing between them will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer top-notch quality and performance in their respective categories, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers and experienced users alike.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a sharp tactile bump, clear-cut feedback, and a quick bottom-out, the Pine switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth typing experience with a full nylon construction and generous factory lube, the Ice King Linear switch may be more to your liking. Additionally, if you enjoy switches with accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel, the Pine switch is ideal. However, if you prefer switches described as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished, the Ice King Linear switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for tactility, smoothness, and typing style.
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