Durock Ice King Linear vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Linear and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches, it's evident that both offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences. The Ice King Linear is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. On the other hand, the Jacaranda stands out with its gentle bottom-out force, clacky sound signature, and an extended 22mm spring that adds a bouncy sensation to each keystroke. While the Ice King Linear provides a subdued and creamy typing experience, the Jacaranda offers a more resonant and high-pitched feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Linear and PH Studio Jacaranda both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear features a nylon top housing, while the Jacaranda has a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing on the Jacaranda produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing. This difference in material leads to a more resonant and clear sound profile for the Jacaranda switch.
While both the Ice King Linear and Jacaranda switches share a similar nylon bottom housing, their top housing material differs, affecting the overall sound profile of the switches. The Ice King Linear's nylon top housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, while the polycarbonate top housing on the Jacaranda creates a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing on the Jacaranda is beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch. The split between bottom and top housing material showcases how each individual part contributes to the overall typing experience and sound profile of the switch.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Linear and PH Studio Jacaranda switches showcase how different housing materials can impact the sound profile of a switch. While both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, the differing top housing materials result in distinct sound profiles. The Ice King Linear's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. Understanding the role of each housing material in the switch design allows users to select switches that align with their preferred sound profile and aesthetic preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it is evident that they offer different weight options for users. The Ice King Linear has a medium actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Jacaranda switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it easier to type for extended periods without fatigue. Those looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier forces of the Ice King Linear, while users who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Jacaranda. Overall, the weight variances between the two switches offer users the ability to choose based on their personal typing preferences, ensuring a comfortable typing experience whether they prefer a lighter or heavier keystroke.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch and PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it can be noted that both offer a consistent distance for keypresses, ensuring a familiar typing experience for users. The consistent travel distance of 3.5 mm in both switches allows for a comfortable and efficient typing experience, providing tactile feedback without being overly loud. Whether choosing the Ice King Linear or Jacaranda linear switch, users can expect a similar level of keypress travel distance, resulting in a smooth typing experience for both options.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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 Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a subdued and dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle auditory experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, delivering a sharp and crisp feedback with each keystroke. The Jacaranda's extended 22mm spring also contributes to a bouncy sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, considering factors such as keycap and keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, both the Ice King Linear and the Jacaranda switches are described as offering a silky typing experience. They both provide smooth key travel with minimal resistance, allowing for effortless typing and reducing fatigue on the fingers. Whether you opt for the Ice King Linear with its full nylon construction or the Jacaranda with its 43.5g gentle bottom-out force, you can expect a polished and refined feel during typing sessions. With similar descriptions in feel, choosing between the two switches may come down to other factors such as sound or additional features.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Linear and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches both offer a smooth and pleasant typing experience. While the Ice King Linear leans towards a subdued sound profile, the Jacaranda provides a clacky and high-pitched feedback, giving typists options based on their auditory preferences. In terms of feel, both switches are praised for their silky and frictionless typing experience, ensuring a comfortable and effortless keystroke. Ultimately, whether you choose the Ice King Linear or the Jacaranda, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a medium bottom out force and a smooth typing experience with a subtle sound profile, then the Ice King Linear may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a bouncy typing sensation, and a clacky sound profile, then the Jacaranda switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make your decision based on what feels best for you.
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