Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts often find themselves at a crossroads when selecting switches, as two popular options—Gateron Glory Yellow and Durock Ice King Tactile—offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Gateron Glory Yellow, known for its smooth keystroke and heavier feel within its lineup, provides an enjoyable typing experience that many users favor for gaming and fast-paced typing. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile elevates tactile feedback to new heights, blending creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, creating a satisfying typing rhythm that appeals to those who enjoy the reassuring click of a tactile switch. While the Glory Yellow switches cater to a preference for linearity and smoothness, the Ice King Tactile switches invite users to relish the tactile sensations associated with every keystroke. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Glory Yellow and Durock Ice King Tactile keyboards both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, which plays a significant role in the overall acoustic and tactile characteristics of the switches. Nylon is recognized for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. Consequently, both switches produce a duller sound when keys are pressed, enhancing the typing experience by minimizing the high-pitched noise often associated with mechanical switches. This sonic quality is shared between the two models, making them relatively similar in terms of auditory feedback.
When considering the physical sensation while typing, the properties of the nylon housing also contribute to the feel of the switches. The characteristics of the bottom housing affect the bottom-out feel when the switch is fully depressed, while the top housing predominantly influences the sound profile as the key is released. Because both the Glory Yellow and Ice King Tactile feature identical nylon materials in both the top and bottom housings, users can expect a uniform typing feel across both switches. The result is that the tactile feedback will feel consistent, providing users with a satisfying experience regardless of their choice between the two switches.
Despite the commonality in material and sound profile, the user experience can still vary based on the switch mechanism design and intended purpose. While both switches may have the same acoustic properties due to nylon housings, any differences in stem design or tactile feedback could result in a different typing experience over time. However, for those prioritizing sound and feel, the similarities in the nylon housing will yield comparable results, ensuring that either choice offers a rich, comforting typing experience characterized by a smooth feel and a cohesive sound.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, we find notable differences in their actuation forces. The Glory Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, making it the lighter option, which can be more comfortable for extended typing sessions and gaming. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile has a higher actuation force of 58 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Regarding bottom out forces, the Ice King Tactile provides a clear figure at 68 grams, indicating a medium-heavy resistance when fully pressed down. However, the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow remains unknown. Overall, the Gateron Glory Yellow is suited for users seeking a lighter touch, while the Durock Ice King Tactile could satisfy those desiring a firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference in travel distance reflects distinct typing experiences suited to different preferences. With the Glory Yellow's 4 mm travel, users can enjoy a more pronounced key press, which may be preferable for those who appreciate a hearty depth when typing. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile's 3.5 mm travel is more responsive and may cater to gamers or users who favor quicker action and faster response times. Essentially, if you're looking for a switch that offers a more traditional and satisfying keystroke experience, the Gateron Glory Yellow would be the better choice. However, if quicker key presses are your priority, then the Durock Ice King Tactile provides a more immediate feedback feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Yellow for $4.19.
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
The sound produced by the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch is typically characterized by a smooth and clean keystroke, creating a pleasant auditory experience without excessive noise. This allows for a typing environment that avoids disturbances while still giving confirmation of key presses. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch emits a more subdued sound, which produces a dampened auditory response when actuated. While it is not entirely silent, this subtle sound signature contributes to a quieter typing experience compared to more pronounced mechanical switches, making it suitable for those in shared or quiet environments.
When discussing the feel of these switches, the Gateron Glory Yellow offers a satisfying smoothness with a pleasing travel distance that enhances the overall typing experience, though specific characteristics of mobility are less emphasized. The Ice King Tactile, on the other hand, takes tactile feedback to a new level. It boasts a silky, frictionless motion that minimizes resistance when pressing keys, creating a fluid and almost effortless typing action. Additionally, the polished feel of the Ice King switch contributes to a refined and sleek typing experience, attributed to either the quality of materials used or effective factory lubing, making it a delight for tactile enthusiasts.
In summary, both the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences. While the Glory Yellow excels in providing a clean and smooth typing sound, the Ice King switch combines a subdued audio profile with a luxurious tactile feel, blending smoothness, and a pronounced tactile bump seamlessly. Ultimately, the choice between them will depend on the user’s preference for sound and tactile experience, as both switches will deliver satisfying results tailored to their specific qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal typing style and preferences. If you prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke that allows for rapid typing without any tactile feedback, the Glory Yellow would be your best bet. These switches excel in providing an enjoyable and fluid typing experience, making them ideal for those who engage in fast-paced gaming or extensive typing sessions where you want to minimize resistance. On the other hand, if you appreciate a tactile feel while typing and desire that satisfying feedback with each keystroke, the Ice King Tactile switches will serve you well. Their pronounced tactile bump and silky, frictionless feel provide a uniquely gratifying experience that can enhance your precision and comfort, particularly for tasks like coding or writing. Moreover, if sound tends to be a consideration for your workspace, the Ice King’s subdued sound profile adds a level of discretion while typing. Ultimately, weigh these factors according to how you intend to use your keyboard, and choose the switch that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
