KTT Darling vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Darling, a linear switch, offers a typing sensation that is described as chewy and substantial, with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. This switch is known for delivering a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, creating a unique blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile is praised for its creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, providing a symphony of touch that elevates tactile typing to an art form. This switch offers a uniquely satisfying tactile experience with a blend of smoothness and tactility. If you prefer a switch with a bouncy and clacky feel, the KTT Darling may be the right choice for you. However, if you seek a switch with creamy smoothness and a pronounced tactile bump, the Durock Ice King Tactile could be the ideal option. Now, 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
45g
Actuation force
58g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Durock Ice King Tactile both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Darling's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a clear and resonant profile, ideal for users looking for a distinct typing experience. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound and produces a duller yet rounder profile. While both materials have their own advantages, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Darling and the Ice King Tactile feature nylon bottom housings that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. The use of nylon in the bottom housing allows for a softening effect on the sound, creating a smoother and more subdued bottom-out experience compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. While the top housing may have a more significant impact on the sound when letting go of a key, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience by influencing the bottom-out sound and feel.
Overall, whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound profile of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, both the KTT Darling and the Durock Ice King Tactile offer high-quality housing materials that can enhance your typing experience. While the top and bottom housings may differ in material, they work together to create a harmonious sound profile that caters to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch differ in weight and feel. The Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile has a heavier actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, making it medium-heavy. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Darling for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for the heavier feel of the Ice King Tactile for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom will be consistent. Both switches offer a moderate travel distance, providing a satisfying tactile experience for users. As a result, whether you opt for the KTT Darling or the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 KTT Darling linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound that is resonant upon bottoming out each keystroke. This creates an engaging blend of tactile and auditory feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience that is both crisp and bright. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch produces a more subdued sound, offering a dampened and subtle sound signature that is not completely silent but less sharp and percussive than the Darling. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profiles, as well as other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is known for its bouncy and springy responsiveness, providing a lively feel and rebound when pressed. In comparison, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch offers a silky, frictionless, and polished typing experience that enhances smoothness and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Ice King Tactile also has a stepped feel, offering a two-stage tactile bump compared to the consistent bounce of the Darling. Depending on whether one prefers a lively and bouncy feel or a more refined and smooth typing experience, the choice between the two switches will vary based on personal preference.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Darling provides a more pronounced bounciness and high-pitched, resonant sound, creating a tactile and auditory blend that is engaging and satisfying. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile offers a unique combination of smoothness and tactile feedback, with a more subdued sound profile that may appeal to those seeking a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a springy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound, the Darling switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, creating a symphony of touch with a more subdued sound profile, the Ice King Tactile switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the unique feel and sound characteristics offered by each switch.
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