Durock Ice King Linear vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Ink Box Pink. The Ice King Linear offers a silky smooth typing experience with its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, resulting in a subdued and creamy feel. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink provides a lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack, making it clacky and polished. Both switches offer 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
52g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Ink Box Pink, both switches utilize premium materials to enhance the typing experience. The Ice King Linear features a nylon top housing that provides a deep and full sound profile, while the Ink Box Pink utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. Despite their differences in sound profile, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that caters to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Ice King Linear and the Ink Box Pink share a nylon material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softness of the nylon material helps absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience. While the bottom housing may not be as immediately noticeable as the top housing in terms of sound, it plays a crucial role in dictating the overall feel and sound of the switch when pressed down.
The split between the top and bottom housings in a switch allows for a balanced distribution of sound and feel characteristics. The impact of the bottom housing is more noticeable when bottoming out a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Both the Ice King Linear and the Ink Box Pink benefit from this split design, as it allows for a more nuanced typing experience that caters to the preferences of different users. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Gateron Ink Box Pink's 50 grams. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Ice King requiring 62 grams and the Ink Box Pink needing 60 grams. Overall, both switches fall within the medium weight category, making them suitable for a wide range of users. Those who prefer a slightly lighter actuation force may lean towards the Ink Box Pink, while those who enjoy a slightly heavier feel might opt for the Ice King Linear. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch both offer slightly different travel distances. The Ice King Linear has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Ink Box Pink has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. While the difference in travel distance is minimal, it can still impact the typing experience for some users. Gamers, for example, may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Ice King Linear for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more pronounced keypress may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Ink Box Pink to be more satisfying. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar typing experience with a subtle difference in travel distance.
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 Box Pink has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Pink for $7.65.
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 and dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch delivers a higher-pitched and clacky sound, giving off a sharp and crisp tone that can be described as bright and percussive. Depending on personal preference, the Ice King Linear offers a more restrained auditory experience, while the Ink Box Pink delivers a livelier and more pronounced sound.
In terms of feel, both the Ice King Linear and the Ink Box Pink switches are described as providing a silky typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. The Ice King Linear offers a silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing sensation, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. Similarly, the Ink Box Pink also boasts a silky and polished feel, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. With both switches offering similar characteristics in terms of feel, users can expect a consistent and high-quality typing experience from either option.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Linear and Gateron Ink Box Pink switches both excel in providing a premium typing experience with their smooth and refined feel. While the Ice King Linear leans towards a more subdued sound profile, the Ink Box Pink offers a higher-pitched and clacky sound. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches are excellent choices for those seeking a top-notch typing experience with impressive tactile feedback. Whether you opt for the Ice King Linear or the Ink Box Pink, you can expect comparable results in terms of the smoothness and overall quality of your typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for typing experience and sound. If you prefer a switch with a bit more bottom out force and a smoother typing feel, the Ice King Linear may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter feel and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Ink Box Pink could be the switch that suits your preferences. Both switches offer a silky typing experience, but the Ice King Linear may provide a more subdued sound, while the Ink Box Pink offers a clackier and higher-pitched sound profile. Consider your typing style and preferences when making your decision between these two quality switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Ice King Linear and Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switches will depend on what typing experience and sound profile you find most enjoyable.
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