Gateron CM vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CM and the Durock Ice King Linear. The Gateron CM is favored for its unique full nylon housing, providing a deeper sound signature and a smooth typing experience thanks to its impeccable factory lube job. With a lengthened, dual-staged spring, the CM switches offer a bouncy typing sensation, making them ideal for those who prefer a buttery and thocky feel. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear stands out for its silky smooth typing experience, also achieved through a full nylon construction and generous factory lube. Categorized as silky, frictionless, and creamy, the Ice King Linear switch is perfect for users who prioritize a subdued and polished typing experience. 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
55g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
POM
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
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CM and the Durock Ice King Linear utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing material. This results in both switches producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon's softer and more sound-absorbing properties create a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in housing material ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound when using either switch.
Where the Gateron CM and Durock Ice King Linear differ is in their design and construction, which may affect other aspects of typing beyond just sound. While both switches share the same nylon top and bottom housing, the internal components and overall build quality could vary between the two. This could result in differences in key feel, actuation force, and overall typing experience for users who are sensitive to these subtle nuances.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CM and the Durock Ice King Linear may come down to personal preference based on typing feel and other factors beyond just housing material. While both switches share the same nylon housing properties and offer a deep and full sound profile, users may find that the internal components and overall build quality play a larger role in determining which switch is the better fit for their typing needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, it is evident that the Ice King is lighter in both aspects. The CM has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Ice King has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a tactile experience while typing. For those who prefer a lighter touch and less fatigue during extended use, the Ice King would be the preferred option. Meanwhile, the CM switch offers a slightly heavier feel, ideal for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In both cases, users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness and overall performance, with the main difference being the slight variation in actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Ice King Linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, which is preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Ice King Linear switch, while those who enjoy a slightly deeper keypress may opt for the Gateron CM linear switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 CM linear switch is best described as having a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is noted for producing a more subdued sound, offering a dampened and subtle sound signature. If you prefer a deeper and richer sound with a lower frequency range, the CM switches would be the way to go. However, if you prefer a quieter and more understated sound, the Ice King Linear switches may be more suited to your preference.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Gateron CM linear and the Durock Ice King Linear switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience. The CM switches are described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Ice King Linear switches are described as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished, also offering an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. If you enjoy a typing experience that feels like gliding effortlessly across the keys with minimal friction, both of these switches would provide a satisfying sensation.
Considering all the available information, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch offer a premium typing experience with their smooth and full nylon construction, generous factory lube application, and unique sound profiles. The CM switches provide a deeper and richer sound with a bouncy typing experience, while the Ice King Linear switches offer a more subdued sound with a silky smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. However, it is worth noting that both switches are likely to deliver similar results in terms of overall typing satisfaction due to their high-quality construction and factory lubrication.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy typing experience with a deep and rich sound profile, then the Gateron CM linear switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and value a silky smooth typing experience with a more subdued sound profile, then the Durock Ice King Linear switch could be the better option for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you desire. Make sure to consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel when making your decision.
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