Huano Grape Orange vs. Durock Ice King Tactile

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Grape Orange and the Durock Ice King Tactile stand out as two compelling options, each catering to different typing preferences. The Grape Orange, a linear switch, boasts an ultra-light 40g actuation force, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, especially during lengthy sessions. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile offers a raised tactile bump that elevates the typing experience, combining a creamy smoothness with a pronounced feedback that many typists crave. This switch is particularly well-suited for users who appreciate a tactile response, providing a satisfying sensation with each keystroke. While the Grape Orange is all about swift and uncomplicated keystrokes, the Ice King Tactile merges tactile precision with silky smoothness for a more nuanced touch. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

Durock Ice King Tactile Tactile

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$5.80

$4.20 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Huano Grape Orange and Durock Ice King Tactile switches employ different materials for their top housings, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Grape Orange features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. Due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, this material allows for greater resonance, creating a clear audio experience, particularly beneficial for RGB lighting setups due to its translucency. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile opts for a nylon top housing, a significant deviation that leads to a sound profile that is deeper and fuller. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively, thus producing a rounder and less sharp sound. This contrast in top housing materials sets the foundation for the distinct auditory experiences provided by each switch.

In terms of bottom housings, both the Huano Grape Orange and Durock Ice King Tactile utilize nylon, which aligns them in terms of sound absorption properties. With nylon being a classic choice for switch housings, the use of this material in the bottom housing results in a full-bodied sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. This shared characteristic means that when users bottom out with either switch, they will experience a notably similar and satisfying tactile feedback due to the nylon's properties. The reliance on nylon for the lower housing in both switches allows for a consistent bottoming-out sound and feel, connecting the two options despite their contrasting top materials.

Ultimately, when pressing either switch, the polycarbonate top housing of the Grape Orange will influence the sound upon release, making it more pronounced and airy, while the Ice King Tactile’s nylon top will yield a softer, rounder sound during release. However, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that the tactile response and bottom-out experience are aligned, leading to a full and rich audio profile in both situations. This combination of top and bottom materials plays a pivotal role in defining the unique sound profiles, reinforcing the idea that while the switches differ in upper construction, they converge on the shared acoustic experience offered by their bottom housings.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Grape Orange requires a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for users seeking comfort during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile has a heavier actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. While both switches have their unique appeal, the Grape Orange is clearly the lighter option, which can be beneficial for prolonged use, whereas the Ice King Tactile caters to those who appreciate a medium-heavy feedback. Thus, depending on personal preferences for weight and tactile experience, the choice between these two switches will significantly influence typing comfort and overall use.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, we find that the Grape Orange has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ice King Tactile measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the Grape Orange the longer of the two switches. In terms of user experience, the shorter travel distance of the Ice King Tactile may offer quicker response times, which can be particularly advantageous for gamers seeking speed. However, some users may prefer the deeper feel of the Grape Orange, making it more suitable for those who want a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on an individual's preference for depth versus responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Huano Grape Orange linear switch produces a relatively quiet typing experience. While specific descriptions are not available, linear switches like the Grape Orange generally do not have the distinct auditory feedback characteristic of tactile or clicky switches, making them suitable for environments where noise is a consideration. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile is notably described as subdued, producing a dampened sound when pressed. This results in a more subtle sound signature, making it less intrusive than many other tactile switches. However, the ultimate sound profile of both switches can still be influenced by the choice of keyboard construction and keycap material, so users may experience variations.

In terms of feel, the Huano Grape Orange excels with its exceptionally light and effortless typing experience, characterized by an ultra-low actuation force of just 40g. This makes it perfect for prolonged typing sessions without much fatigue. Meanwhile, the Durock Ice King Tactile combines silky smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, creating a satisfying typing experience that is both frictionless and polished. The stepped tactile nature of the Ice King offers a clear differentiation point in the keystroke, providing a unique tactile feedback that sets it apart from linear switches. Thus, those who prefer a fully linear typing experience might find the Grape Orange more appealing, while tactile switch enthusiasts will appreciate the nuanced feedback of the Ice King.

In conclusion, the Huano Grape Orange and Durock Ice King Tactile switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, with the Grape Orange offering a quieter performance and a lighter touch, while the Ice King provides a smooth and tactile experience with subdued sound. Your choice may hinge on whether you prioritize an effortless linear feel or an engaging tactile response, as both can deliver satisfying results in their own right.

Conclusion

To wrap up, your choice between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and the tasks you'll be performing. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience, where you can type for extended periods without fatigue, the Grape Orange is an excellent option. With its low actuation force and smooth, frictionless feel, it allows for rapid key presses, making it ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you enjoy tactile feedback while you type, appreciate a more substantial bottom-out force, and prefer a refined, silky typing experience, the Ice King Tactile is the way to go. Its pronounced tactile bump not only enhances your typing accuracy but also provides a satisfying sensory experience, perfect for those who love to feel every key press. The subdued sound profile of the Ice King Tactile also makes it suitable for quieter environments, unlike the Grape Orange, which may be more suited for casual settings. Therefore, consider your typing style and environment to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Durock Ice King Tactile Tactile

$5.80

$4.20 per 10

Learn more