Gateron CM vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CM and the Durock Ice King Tactile represent two distinct options for discerning enthusiasts. The Gateron CM is a linear switch that stands out for its full nylon housing, delivering a deep and rich sound signature. With an impeccable factory lube job, typing on the CM switches promises a smooth and effortless experience, enhanced by their lengthened, dual-staged spring for a bouncy feel. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile offers a tactile switch that combines creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience that blends the best of both worlds. Despite these general pointers, it's essential to delve deeper into the nuances of each switch to find the perfect fit for your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
58g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
The housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches are both made of nylon, which is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches using nylon housing. Both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and overall feel, as the nylon material contributes to a consistent and satisfying typing experience.
Despite both the Gateron CM and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches utilizing nylon for their housing material, there may be minor differences in sound and feel due to variations in manufacturing processes or design. The top housing of a switch typically influences the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that any subtle distinctions between the top and bottom nylon housing of each switch could result in slightly different typing experiences, although the overall qualities of nylon will still be present in both.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CM and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches may come down to personal preference or specific typing needs, as their nylon housing materials offer comparable benefits in terms of sound profile and typing experience. Whether typing on the Gateron CM or the Durock Ice King Tactile, users can expect a softer plastic feel that absorbs sound for a deeper and fuller typing sound. Both switches provide a classic switch housing material that contributes to an enjoyable typing experience with a rounder and duller sound profile.
Weight
The Gateron CM linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 58 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the CM requires 63.5 grams, whereas the Ice King Tactile requires 68 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit of resistance. The slight difference in actuation force may be noticeable for some users, but overall, both switches offer a similar level of tactile feedback and can cater to those who prefer a slightly lighter or heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for 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 Tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their fast response times. Gamers may prefer the Gateron CM for its slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth to key presses, while those looking for a shorter and more responsive feel may favor the Durock Ice King Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CM linear switch is best described as having a bassy and thocky sound profile, offering a deep and rich sound during key presses. This is due to its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, providing a satisfying tactile experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is described as having a subdued sound, producing a dampened sound when pressed. This creates a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. The CM switch is more likely to provide a deeper and richer sound experience, while the Ice King Tactile switch offers a quieter and more subdued typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is known for its buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke, with reduced friction and smooth key travel, making for a sleek typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch provides a silky and frictionless typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The stepped feel of the Ice King Tactile switch also gives it a unique tactile sensation, offering two stages of tactile feedback during typing. Both switches offer a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, but with slightly different tactile characteristics.
Overall, the Gateron CM linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch each bring their own unique qualities to the table. The Gateron CM switch excels in providing a deep, rich sound and a buttery, polished feel, resulting in a smooth and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a subdued sound and a silky, frictionless feel with stepped tactile feedback, creating a uniquely satisfying and smooth typing experience. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches offer high-quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, ensuring a pleasant typing journey regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a switch with a bouncy typing experience, smooth key travel, and a deeper sound profile, the Gateron CM linear switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a uniquely satisfying tactile experience, creamy smoothness, and a more subdued sound signature, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is worth considering. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels best under your fingertips and what sound profile resonates with you the most. Happy typing!
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