Bsun Guyu vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Bsun Guyu and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offer distinct experiences for users. The Guyu switch is renowned for its unique auditory experience, characterized by a bright and crisp bottom-out sound created by its all-POM housing and long pole stem. Its smooth keystrokes and medium weight provide effortless typing with resonant feedback, resulting in a distinctive sound signature that blends depth and clarity. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switch elevates tactile typing to an art form, combining creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump for a satisfying tactile experience. While the Guyu is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', the Ice King Tactile is described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', and 'Subdued'. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Guyu and the Durock Ice King Tactile differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Guyu utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile features nylon top and bottom housing, which produces a fuller sound due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the POM of the Guyu tends to have a deeper tone, whereas the nylon of the Ice King Tactile provides a rounder sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Bsun Guyu and the Durock Ice King Tactile aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience. The POM of the Guyu is known for its pleasing sound, while the nylon of the Ice King Tactile is classic and offers a fuller sound profile. While each material may have its own distinct characteristics, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience through their unique sound profiles and materials. Therefore, users can expect a similar level of quality and satisfaction from both switches, albeit with subtle differences in sound and feel.
In terms of functionality, the split between the top and bottom housings in a switch can affect the overall typing experience. The bottom housing typically has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that the choice of housing material for each part of the switch can greatly impact the overall sound profile and typing feel. With the Bsun Guyu and the Durock Ice King Tactile utilizing different housing materials for their tops and bottoms, users can expect a nuanced and refined typing experience that caters to their individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Guyu is lighter in both categories. The Guyu has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Ice King Tactile has an actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams. The Guyu provides a lighter typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a gentler touch and longer typing sessions. Conversely, the Ice King Tactile offers a medium-heavy feel, giving users a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Both switches provide different weight options to cater to varying preferences, with the Guyu being lighter and the Ice King Tactile being heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Guyu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly longer than the Durock Ice King Tactile switch which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are gaining popularity, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Guyu with its slightly longer travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may prefer the Ice King Tactile. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal and users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Guyu has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Guyu for $3.70.
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 BSUN Guyu linear switch is renowned for its distinct sound profile characterized by a clacky, sharp, and snappy sound when pressed, attributed to the all-POM housing and long pole stem. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a more subdued and dampened sound, providing a subtle and refined typing experience. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Guyu delivering a bright and crisp bottom-out sound, while the Ice King Tactile provides a creamy smoothness paired with a pronounced tactile bump for a satisfying touch.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Guyu switch offers a creamy and frictionless typing experience, allowing for effortless keystrokes and smooth key travel. The Ice King Tactile, on the other hand, provides a silky and polished feel, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall smoothness. Additionally, the Ice King Tactile features a stepped sensation, offering a two-stage tactile feedback that adds to the typing comfort. Both switches excel in providing a delightful tactile experience, with the Guyu emphasizing smoothness and the Ice King Tactile combining refinement with a subtle tactile bump.
In conclusion, the BSUN Guyu linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Guyu excels in delivering a clacky and smooth typing experience with a bright sound signature, the Ice King Tactile stands out for its subdued sound profile and silky tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference, with both switches providing a high-quality typing experience with their respective strengths. Whether opting for the distinct auditory experience of the Guyu or the refined tactile sensation of the Ice King Tactile, users can expect to enjoy a premium mechanical keyboard experience tailored to their preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, consider your preference for auditory and tactile experiences. If you enjoy a bright, crisp bottom-out sound with medium weight and smooth keystrokes, the Guyu may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump that offers a uniquely satisfying tactile experience, the Ice King Tactile switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preference for sound and feel during typing sessions. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and enhances your overall typing experience.
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