TTC Gold Silver vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Silver and the Durock Ice King Tactile stand out as excellent choices with their own distinct qualities. The Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness and precise bottom-out, offering a satisfying sense of closure with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile takes tactile typing to a new level with its smooth feel and pronounced tactile bump, providing a uniquely enjoyable typing experience. While the Gold Silver excels in speed, sound, and fluidity, the Ice King Tactile offers smoothness, tactility, and finesse. 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
45g
Actuation force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
1.40 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
NPI
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 housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Durock Ice King Tactile, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings for both the Gold Silver and the Ice King Tactile.
However, the top housings of the Gold Silver and the Ice King Tactile differ in material, with the Gold Silver featuring a polycarbonate top housing while the Ice King Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Silver creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the nylon top housing of the Ice King Tactile. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that prioritize a more defined sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Despite the differences in top housing materials, both the Gold Silver and the Ice King Tactile offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. While the Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Durock Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the desired sound and feel, with the housing materials playing a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Ice King Tactile has a heavier actuation force of 58 grams. Additionally, the Gold Silver switch does not have a specified bottom out force, whereas the Ice King Tactile has a bottom out force of 68 grams, making it medium-heavy. The lighter actuation force of the Gold Silver switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer durations, while the heavier actuation force of the Ice King Tactile switch may be more suitable for individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver 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 with either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance, providing similar results for users. Therefore, there is no difference in the travel distance between the two switches, making them equally suitable for those looking for a specific travel distance in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, delivering a deep and satisfying tone with each keypress. This switch's neutral sound signature makes it a versatile option suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a more subdued sound, providing a quieter and more understated typing experience. The difference in sound between the two switches lies in the Gold Silver's pronounced and resonant tones compared to the Ice King's more dampened and subtle acoustics.
When it comes to feel, both switches offer a silky smooth typing experience. The TTC Gold Silver switch is polished and mild, providing a refined and gentle keystroke that appeals to a wide range of users. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch boasts a frictionless and stepped feel, offering a unique tactile sensation with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages. The Ice King's polished finish further enhances its smooth key travel, making each keystroke effortless and enjoyable. While both switches share a silky feel, they differ in their overall tactile feedback and key travel characteristics.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver switch excels in delivering a rapid and responsive typing experience with a thocky sound profile and polished feel. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch stands out for its elevated tactile typing experience, combining creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump. Whether you prefer a switch with a decisive bottom-out and resonant sound like the Gold Silver or a more subdued and stepped feel like the Ice King, both options offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches boils down to individual preference in sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value rapid responsiveness, a smooth keystroke, and a resonant sound, the Gold Silver switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you seek a tactile typing experience with a creamy smoothness, pronounced tactile bump, and a subdued sound, the Ice King Tactile switch is the perfect choice for you. Your decision should ultimately be based on your personal preferences and typing style. Choose wisely and enjoy a satisfying typing experience with either of these high-quality mechanical keyboard switches.
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