KTT Cream Yellow vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cream Yellow and the Durock Ice King Tactile stand out for their unique characteristics. The Cream Yellow is a linear switch that offers a distinctively clacky sound, a bouncy typing feel, and resonant audio feedback. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile is a tactile switch that provides a creamy smoothness, a pronounced tactile bump, and a satisfying tactile experience with remarkable finesse. While the Cream Yellow is best for those looking for a bouncy and clacky typing experience, the Ice King Tactile is ideal for those seeking silky smoothness and a pronounced tactile bump. 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
50g
Actuation force
58g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
68g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Durock Ice King Tactile, it is evident that both switches have top housings made of different materials. The Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the Cream Yellow's polycarbonate housing is more resonant, the Ice King Tactile's nylon housing creates a rounder sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Cream Yellow and the Ice King Tactile utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound and creating a duller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This means that both switches will provide a deeper and fuller sound when typing due to the properties of the nylon material in the bottom housing. While the bottom housing material is the same for both switches, it is interesting to note how it impacts the overall sound and feel of each switch.
In considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall performance of the switches, it becomes clear that the Cream Yellow and the Ice King Tactile offer different sound profiles. The split between the top and bottom housing allows for a unique typing experience, with the Cream Yellow emphasizing a sharper, crisper sound on keypress and release, thanks to its polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing and bottom housing work together to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a more rounded sound when typing. Despite these differences, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, we can see that the Cream Yellow is lighter with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Ice King Tactile is heavier with an actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of actuation force, but the Ice King Tactile leans towards the medium-heavy side when it comes to bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the Cream Yellow may be preferable for those looking for a smoother typing experience over extended periods, such as in an office setting or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier forces of the Ice King Tactile may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch have an equal travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. Users can expect consistent feedback and key feel with either switch due to their identical travel distance. This makes them both suitable options for those looking for a specific key travel distance in their mechanical keyboard setup.
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 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 Cream Yellow switch offers a sharp and clacky sound, creating a vibrant and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switch provides a more subdued sound profile, offering a dampened and subtle auditory feedback during typing. Depending on personal preference, the Cream Yellow switch may be favored for those who enjoy a more pronounced and lively sound, while the Ice King Tactile switch may appeal to individuals seeking a quieter and more refined typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Cream Yellow switch is known for its bouncy and spring-like feedback, providing a lively sensation with each key press. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile switch is praised for its silky smoothness, frictionless travel, stepped tactility, and polished finish. This combination results in an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall typing comfort. Those who appreciate a more springy and lively key feel may gravitate towards the Cream Yellow switch, while individuals looking for a buttery smooth typing experience may find the Ice King Tactile switch more appealing.
In conclusion, the Cream Yellow linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cream Yellow switch provides a clacky sound and bouncy feel, the Ice King Tactile switch offers a subdued sound profile and silky smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. If a user seeks a dynamic and percussive typing experience, the Cream Yellow switch is a suitable option, whereas those desiring a smooth and refined typing feel may find the Ice King Tactile switch more to their liking. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, ensuring that users will achieve satisfying results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and desire a silky smooth typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump, the Ice King Tactile switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that best aligns with your preferences.
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