Durock Ice King Linear vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Jupiter Brown mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Ice King Linear offers a silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, making it perfect for those who prefer a frictionless and subdued feel. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch that provides a more traditional keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, appealing to those looking for a more classic typing experience with enhanced backlight effects. 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
55g
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
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
Spring steel
Housing materials
Overall, the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to their different compositions. The Ice King Linear's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer material that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In comparison, the Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. While both materials are considered classic switch housing options, they cater to different preferences in sound quality.
Despite their differences in sound profiles, both the Ice King Linear and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches share the use of nylon in their bottom housings. This commonality suggests that users can expect a similar deep and full sound profile when typing on either switch, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound. However, where the switches differ lies in their top housings; the Ice King Linear utilizes nylon in this component, resulting in a continuation of the deep and fuller sound profile, while the Jupiter Brown employs polycarbonate for a sharper and crisper sound with more clarity and resonance.
When comparing the housing materials of the Ice King Linear and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches, it is clear that the choice of material plays a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile and typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housings of a switch allows for a balance of qualities that affect the sound and feel when typing on each key. Whether one prefers the deeper and fuller sound of nylon or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound quality and typing experience.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch with an actuation force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ice King requires 62 grams while the Jupiter Brown needs 70 grams, making the Ice King the lighter option overall. Both switches fall within the medium actuation force category, but the Jupiter Brown leans towards the medium-heavy side in terms of bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the Ice King may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier bottom out force of the Jupiter Brown could provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ice King Linear offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers who need fast reactions. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience. Both switches offer quality performance, but with slightly different tactile feedback based on their travel distances.
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 Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 Ice King Linear switch offers a subdued sound profile, producing a dampened sound when pressed, which is more subtle compared to most switches. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is not provided. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Ice King Linear switch is described as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with reduced resistance and friction. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is described as mild, polished, and stepped, offering a gentler typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. Both switches showcase qualities that cater to different preferences, providing a range of smoothness and tactility for users to choose from.
Considering the available information, the Durock Ice King Linear and Gateron Jupiter Brown switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Ice King Linear switch boasts a more subdued sound profile and an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switch provides a gentler typing feel with a more classic tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound preference and typing feel. However, both switches offer high-precision molds and enhanced aesthetics, ensuring reliable performance and visual appeal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches, consider the following factors. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a smoother typing experience, the Ice King Linear may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a slightly heavier bottom out force and a more traditional tactile feel, the Jupiter Brown switch could be the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of weight, feel, and sound. So, take into account your typing style and preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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