Durock Ice King Linear vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are thrilled to introduce two highly sought-after mechanical keyboard switches for your consideration - the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Ink Black V2, both linear switches. The Ice King Linear is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, while the Ink Black V2 is known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it a long-time community favorite. The Ice King Linear is described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', whereas the Ink Black V2 is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Bassy', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Each switch offers unique qualities that might suit different preferences, making it essential to consider what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. 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
52g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Ink Black V2 differ in terms of the sound profiles they produce. The Ice King Linear's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. This means that users looking for a softer and rounder sound may prefer the Ice King Linear, while those seeking a sharper and clacky sound may lean towards the Ink Black V2.
In addition to the top housing, the bottom housing of these switches also plays a role in the overall sound and feel. The Ice King Linear's nylon bottom housing contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile, resembling the qualities of its top housing. Meanwhile, the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend bottom housing enhances the thin and higher-pitched sound profile that is characteristic of the switch. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches will be influenced by the bottom housing material, providing users with a more rounded experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Ink Black V2 may differ in terms of sound profiles, both switches offer unique typing experiences. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile with the Ice King Linear's nylon housing or a sharper and clacky sound with the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend housing, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, users can expect satisfying and versatile typing experiences with either switch option.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch differ slightly in weight. The Ice King Linear has a lighter actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Ink Black V2's 60 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ice King Linear requires 62 grams while the Ink Black V2 needs 70 grams, making the latter heavier in this aspect. For those who prefer a lighter feel for longer typing or gaming sessions, the Ice King Linear may be the better choice. On the other hand, if a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel is desired, the Ink Black V2 could be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, we find that the Ice King has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the Ink Black V2. This means that the Ice King offers a faster key press response time for gamers who prefer quicker actions. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 may provide a more satisfying depth to the key press for those who prefer a longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences when it comes to key press feel, with the Ice King being the shorter option and the Ink Black V2 being the longer option. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is known for producing a subdued sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch is described as having a low-pitched, bassy sound profile with a unique chirpy characteristic. Depending on the user's preference, the Ice King Linear may provide a quieter typing experience, while the Ink Black V2 may offer a more pronounced and rich sound.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Linear switch is praised for its silky, frictionless, and creamy typing experience, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless feel when pressing and releasing keys. The switch is also noted for its polished finish, resulting in sleek key travel. Conversely, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience, suitable for users looking for a gentle yet smooth keypress sensation. Both switches prioritize smoothness and reduced friction, catering to those who value a refined typing feel.
Overall, both the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Ice King Linear provides a more subdued and silky typing experience, the Ink Black V2 offers a low-pitched, bassy sound profile with a mild and polished feel. Whether you prefer a more subtle sound and silky feel or a richer sound with a gentle typing experience, both switches are sure to deliver a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience with a medium bottom out force, then the Durock Ice King Linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force with a classic smooth downstroke and rich clack sound profile, then the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch would be more suitable. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and it ultimately comes down to your personal preference in typing feel and sound. Make your decision based on what type of typing experience you value the most. Happy typing!
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