KTT Cream Yellow vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly impact your typing experience, and two popular options worth considering are the KTT Cream Yellow and the Durock Ice King Linear. The Cream Yellow switch is renowned for its distinctively clacky sound, characterized by a shortened bottom-out distance and a long-pole stem that provide resonant audio feedback—a delightful feature for those who enjoy audible confirmation while typing. Additionally, its lengthened spring offers a bouncy feel that can make typing feel more dynamic and responsive. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is celebrated for its silky smooth action, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lubrication, resulting in a frictionless and subdued typing experience. This switch appeals to those who prioritize a smooth and polished keystroke without the distraction of excessive noise. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference—be it the playful clack of the Cream Yellow or the tranquil smoothness of the Ice King Linear. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow and the Durock Ice King Linear switches, notable differences arise from the materials used in their top housings. The Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top, which is known for providing a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which allows for a more resonant sound when the switch is engaged. In contrast, the Ice King Linear's top housing is made from nylon, a material that yields a deeper and more rounded sound. The inherent softness of nylon acts as a sound absorber, thereby dulling the acoustic response as compared to polycarbonate. Users looking for an articulate, refined typing experience may prefer the Cream Yellow for its high-pitched clarity, while those who favor a warmer, fuller sound might lean toward the Ice King.
On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which brings a level of consistency to the tactile experience of both. The shared properties of nylon in the bottom housing mean that when typing on either switch, users will experience that characteristic deeper and fuller sound profile, which adds a satisfying richness to the keystroke. Since both the Cream Yellow and Ice King incorporate the same material for their bottom sections, this alignment can mitigate the differences brought about by their respective top housings. Therefore, regardless of the pronounced top housing differences, users can expect a similar acoustic quality when the keys bottom out, further enhancing the overall feel of each switch.
The overall impact of the distinct housing materials becomes apparent when considering the total experience with each switch. The polycarbonate top of the Cream Yellow contributes to a bright and vibrant sound upon key release, while the nylon top of the Ice King softens that sound, leading to a more muted auditory response. For enthusiasts who seek a specific character in their keyboard sound, it’s crucial to acknowledge these differences. However, when both switches are engaged and pressed down, their bottom housings harmonize in producing a fuller sound, demonstrating how the materials complement each other in crafting a unique yet cohesive typing experience. Thus, while the contrasting top materials define their sound and feel upon release, the shared nylon bottom provides a common ground in their performance.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force, while both fall within a medium range. The Cream Yellow switch requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it the lighter option between the two. In contrast, the Ice King Linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that while both switches offer substantial typing feedback, the Cream Yellow switch allows for easier and less fatiguing presses, which is ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, users who prefer a firmer keystroke and a more substantial feel may find the Durock Ice King Linear switch more satisfying due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, those looking for a lighter switch should lean towards the KTT Cream Yellow, while those who appreciate a stronger push will likely prefer the Durock Ice King.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that users can expect a similar feel and responsiveness when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch, resulting in a comparable typing experience. With the travel distance being the same, those who prefer one switch over the other may be influenced more by other factors, such as the switch’s actuation force, sound profile, or overall construction, rather than the travel distance itself. Thus, whether choosing the Cream Yellow or the Ice King Linear, users will achieve similar results in terms of key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Cream Yellow switch offers a distinctively clacky auditory experience that’s characterized by a crisp and bright tone. This sound can be quite pronounced due to the shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, resulting in a percussive feedback that many typists enjoy. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear switch presents a more subdued sound profile. While it is not completely silent, its dampened auditory quality offers a more subtle presence when pressed, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. It's important to note that the overall sound can be influenced by the keyboard build and keycap choices, potentially further differentiating the two switches.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow is renowned for its bouncy sensation. The switch delivers a spring-like feedback that almost invites the typist to enjoy rebounding keys with each press, creating a lively and dynamic typing environment. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear switch is celebrated for its silky smoothness, characterized by an effortless typing experience. This switch feels frictionless and creamy, minimizing resistance and allowing for a smooth glide across the keys. The combination of factory lubrication and thoughtful design leads to a polished touch that further enhances its luxurious feel, making it distinctly comfortable for prolonged typing sessions.
Both switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The KTT Cream Yellow is ideal for those who enjoy a lively and tactile experience with audible feedback, while the Durock Ice King Linear suits typists searching for a smooth, silent performance. Ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you prefer the clack of each keypress or the whisper-soft touch of a more subdued switch. Both options provide valuable experiences in their respective categories, ensuring that whatever switch you choose, you’ll find pleasure in your typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lively, bouncy feel with an emphasis on auditory feedback, the Cream Yellow is an excellent choice. Its distinct clacky sound and energetic response make it ideal for typists who appreciate a more tactile and engaging experience. Additionally, if you desire a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, the Cream Yellow provides a satisfying balance of resistance without feeling too heavy. On the other hand, if your priority is a smooth, refined typing experience, the Ice King Linear switch is likely the better option for you. With its silky, frictionless feel and slightly higher bottom-out force of 62 grams, this switch excels in delivering a quiet and polished typing sound. The Ice King's factory lubrication and full nylon construction ensure a consistently smooth experience, which is perfect for those who type extensively or prefer a more subdued auditory profile. Ultimately, consider your typing habits and sound preferences, and you can confidently select the switch that best meets your needs.
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