Durock Dolphin vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and the Durock Ice King Linear both offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The Dolphin is a linear switch known for its silent operation, making it a suitable choice for quiet environments like offices. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a satisfying press that strikes a balance between precision and resistance. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear boasts a silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. While the Dolphin is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched', the Ice King Linear is described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Polished'. Each switch offers distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
N/A
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The Durock Dolphin and the Durock Ice King Linear both feature nylon bottom housings which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound, making the typing experience more muffled compared to the sharper sound profile produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Dolphin. In terms of aesthetics, both switches have clear top housings, with the Dolphin's use of polycarbonate allowing for translucency that is especially useful for RGB lighting effects, while the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing offers a classic look without the transparency.
While the nylon bottom housing of both switches provides a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, the polycarbonate top housing of the Durock Dolphin creates a sharper and crisper sound compared to the duller and rounder sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Durock Ice King Linear. The polycarbonate material's stiffness leads to a more resonant sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience with a clear and sharp sound when the key is released. In contrast, the softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a mellower sound when typing on the Ice King Linear compared to the Dolphin.
In summary, the choice between the Durock Dolphin and the Durock Ice King Linear comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound experience with their nylon bottom housings, the Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those looking for a crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing offers a classic look and a more muffled sound profile, catering to individuals who prefer a rounder sound when typing. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the two switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Dolphin is listed as None grams, while the Ice King Linear has an actuation force of 52 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. In terms of weight, the Dolphin is lighter in terms of actuation force, but both switches are equal when it comes to bottom out force. This means that while the Dolphin may offer a lighter typing experience for some, the Ice King Linear provides a slightly stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and the desired level of actuation force.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of the shorter travel distances that are popular for enhanced responsiveness, particularly among gamers. The Ice King Linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those seeking the quickest key presses for gaming or typing. On the other hand, the Dolphin switch provides a bit more depth with its 3.8 mm travel distance, offering a slightly more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired key press responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Dolphin has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dolphin for $5.41.
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 Durock Dolphin linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter keyboard. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch provides a subdued sound that is dampened and more subtle compared to most switches. Both switches offer a quieter typing experience, but the Dolphin may have a slightly softer and bass-heavy tone compared to the Ice King Linear.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch provides a silky, frictionless, and creamy typing experience, enhancing smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, but the Ice King Linear may provide an even more effortless and buttery sensation compared to the Dolphin.
Considering the available information, both the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch offer excellent choices for those seeking a quiet and smooth typing experience. While the Dolphin may have a slightly softer sound and a more polished feel, the Ice King Linear excels in providing a dampened and subdued sound with a silky and frictionless feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, but rest assured that both options will deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, consider your environment and preferences. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience and need a switch suitable for office use, the Dolphin switch with its muted and low-pitched sound profile may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a smooth and frictionless typing feel with a silky and creamy sensation, the Ice King Linear switch, with its polished and silky attributes, might be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your needs and enjoy your typing journey with either the Durock Dolphin or Ice King Linear switch.
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