TTC Honey vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Honey linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch. The TTC Honey switch is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, providing a pleasant typing experience with a deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a unique blend of creaminess and a pronounced tactile bump, resulting in a satisfying tactile typing experience like no other. While the TTC Honey switch is categorized as 'subdued', 'creamy', and 'buttery', the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is described as 'silky', 'frictionless', and 'stepped'. Both switches have their own unique qualities 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
42g
Actuation force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Durock Ice King Tactile differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Honey features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile has a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This distinction in material highlights how different plastics can influence the acoustics of a switch.
Similarly, when comparing the bottom housings of the Honey and the Ice King Tactile, differences in sound profiles become evident. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Honey contributes to a clearer and resonant sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Ice King Tactile creates a duller and rounder sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate versus the softness of nylon plays a significant role in determining the overall sound quality and feel of the switches, showcasing how the choice of housing material can impact user experience.
In the case of switches where the top and bottom housings are different, users can expect a combination of sound profiles that reflect the properties of each material. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether using polycarbonate or nylon, understanding the characteristics of each housing material can help users customize their typing experience based on their preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, both the TTC Honey and the Durock Ice King Tactile offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The TTC Honey linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams. The difference in force between the two switches provides users with distinct typing experiences. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the TTC Honey switch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, users looking for a more substantial and tactile typing experience may prefer the Durock Ice King Tactile switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches cater to different preferences, providing users with options based on their individual typing needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Honey linear switch is 3.8 mm, while the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall on the shorter end of the spectrum compared to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance for quicker response times, making the Ice King Tactile a favorable option. However, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may be drawn to the Honey with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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
When it comes to sound, both the TTC Honey and Durock Ice King Tactile switches are described as producing a subdued sound when pressed. This means that they offer a dampened sound profile that is not completely silent but more subtle compared to most switches. The actual sound produced can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Honey switches are known for offering a creamy, frictionless, and buttery typing experience. This smooth and effortless feeling is likened to gliding one's fingers across the keys with ease, creating a pleasant typing sensation. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switches are described as providing a silky and frictionless typing experience, with a stepped tactile feel that offers a unique blend of smoothness and tactility. Both switches are polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel for a sleek typing experience.
Overall, while the TTC Honey linear switch and Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch have their own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, they both offer a premium typing experience that merges smoothness with specific tactile feedback. Whether you prefer the smooth and creamy feel of the Honey switch or the silky tactile experience of the Ice King Tactile switch, you can expect high-quality performance and satisfaction from either option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. Opt for the TTC Honey linear switch if you prefer a light bottom out force of 50 grams, a smooth and creamy typing experience, and a subdued sound profile. These switches are known for their pleasant feel and quiet operation. On the other hand, go for the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 68 grams, a unique tactile experience with a pronounced bump, and a smooth typing feel with a symphony of touch. These switches offer a satisfying tactile experience with a subtle sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, actuation force, and sound characteristics.
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