Dareu Holly vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Holly and Durock Ice King offer users different experiences to suit their preferences. The Dareu Holly, a tactile switch, stands out for its medium 50g actuation force and unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear, a linear switch, offers a silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. While the Holly is favored for its tactile feedback and sound profile, the Ice King Linear excels in providing a smooth and frictionless typing feel. 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
50g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Holly and the Durock Ice King Linear, the polycarbonate top housing of the Holly offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate provides a clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Holly allows for better RGB lighting effects, whereas the nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear is a classic choice for switch housing.
While the differences in top housing materials between the Dareu Holly and the Durock Ice King Linear result in varying sound profiles, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing. The nylon material in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This means that even though the top housing materials differ, the sound experience provided by the bottom housing remains consistent between the two switches. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a similar tactile response, creating a uniform typing experience regardless of the top housing material.
Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Holly and the Durock Ice King Linear may come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Holly offers a crisper and sharper sound, ideal for those seeking a more defined typing experience with RGB lighting options. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear produces a deeper and fuller sound, catering to users who prefer a softer, more rounded tone. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with their shared nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent level of sound absorption and tactile response.
Weight
The Dareu Holly tactile switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Durock Ice King Linear switch, with 50 grams versus 52 grams, respectively. The bottom out force of the Ice King Linear is also heavier at 62 grams, while the Holly's bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Holly switch may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Ice King Linear switch would be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. However, without knowing the bottom out force of the Holly, it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in terms of overall weight, but similar results may be achieved in terms of actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Holly has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ice King Linear, making it the longer option. The shorter travel distance of the Ice King Linear may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the longer travel distance of the Holly may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for those who prefer more depth in their keystrokes. In general, both switches offer variations in travel distance that cater to different preferences, with the Holly being the longer option and the Ice King Linear being the shorter option. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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 Dareu Holly tactile switch stands out with its unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. The Ice King Linear linear switch, on the other hand, offers a more subdued sound profile, producing a dampened sound when pressed. Depending on personal preference, users may find the chirpy and clacky sound of the Holly switch or the subdued sound of the Ice King Linear switch more appealing. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Holly tactile switch does not have specific descriptors available, while the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch is described as offering a silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience. This indicates that the Ice King Linear switch provides an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing feel, minimizing resistance and friction when pressing and releasing keys. Users who prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience may prefer the Ice King Linear switch over the Holly switch.
Considering the available information, it is evident that the Dareu Holly tactile switch and Durock Ice King Linear linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Holly switch provides a unique chirpy and clacky sound, catering to users seeking a balanced typing experience, the Ice King Linear switch offers a smoother and more refined sound profile, appealing to those looking for a silky typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, you should consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you are looking for a unique typing experience with a balance of chirpy and clacky sound elements, the Holly switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more subdued sound while typing, the Ice King Linear switch with its silky feel might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking. Both switches offer their own distinct characteristics, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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