Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch to the Durock Ice King Linear switch, both switches offer a smooth and polished typing experience. The CAP Anniversary stands out for its unique stem design, featuring aerodynamic principles that result in exceptionally smooth keystrokes. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear boasts a full nylon construction and generous factory lube for a silky smooth typing experience. Both switches are categorized as 'Creamy' and 'Polished', but the Ice King Linear is also described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', and 'Subdued'. While these general descriptions provide an overview of each switch's characteristics, diving deeper into their performance and feel will help you decide on the best switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Ice King Linear, it is clear that they both use nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. This means that both switches will have a similar typing experience in terms of the sound produced when the key bottoms out. However, because nylon is softer, the sound created by the bottom housing of these switches may be slightly muted and rounder compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings.
On the other hand, the top housing of the CAP Anniversary uses polycarbonate, which is a stiffer plastic known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrasts with the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The differences in these top housings will result in a noticeable variation in the sound produced when a key is released, with the CAP Anniversary likely to have a clearer and more resonant sound compared to the Ice King Linear.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of typing on a mechanical keyboard. While both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Ice King Linear use nylon for their bottom housing, they differ in their choice of top housing material, with the CAP Anniversary utilizing polycarbonate for a sharper sound profile and the Ice King Linear sticking with nylon for a fuller sound profile. This means that users can expect distinct typing experiences with each switch, with differences in sound clarity and pitch depending on which aspects of the housing materials are prioritized.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Durock Ice King Linear switch with an actuation force of 52 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary requires a heavier force of 65 grams while the Ice King Linear switch has a lower bottom out force of 62 grams. This makes the CAP Anniversary switch better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, while the Ice King Linear switch may be more desirable for those who prefer a lighter actuation force for longer typing periods. Overall, both switches fall into the medium weight category, offering a balance between the two preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have an impact on the typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Ice King Linear switch may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the CAP Anniversary switch may offer a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, so regardless of which one you choose, you can expect similar results in terms of key operation. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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 Gateron CAP Anniversary switch provides a smooth and muffled sound profile due to its unique design that reduces excess air and minimizes resistance during keystrokes. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a subdued sound experience, which dampens the noise produced while typing, resulting in a more subtle sound signature. Both switches are known for providing a quieter typing experience, but the Ice King Linear switch may offer a slightly more muted sound compared to the CAP Anniversary.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is described as having a snappy and creamy sensation, characterized by its responsiveness and smooth keystrokes. The Ice King Linear switch, on the other hand, offers a silky and frictionless typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance during key presses. Both switches are praised for their smooth and buttery feel, with the Ice King Linear potentially offering a slightly more effortless and fluid typing sensation due to its full nylon construction and factory lube.
Overall, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Durock Ice King Linear switches excel in providing exceptionally smooth typing experiences with minimal noise. While the CAP Anniversary switch boasts a unique CAP structure that enhances stability and reduces wobble, the Ice King Linear switch stands out for its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can expect similar results in terms of smoothness and quietness from both switches, making them excellent choices for a superior typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a unique keystroke experience with exceptionally smooth keystrokes and stability, the CAP Anniversary may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a silky smooth typing experience with a full nylon construction and generous factory lube, the Ice King Linear could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value the CAP structure and aerodynamic design of the CAP Anniversary or the smoothness and lube of the Ice King Linear. It's important to consider factors such as sound, feel, and overall typing experience before making your decision.
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