Durock Ice King Linear vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the KTT Kang White 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 a great choice for those looking for a frictionless and creamy typing feel. On the other hand, the Kang White is praised for its poppy linear switch design and dazzling typing sound, along with its self-lubricating material that provides unmatched smoothness. While the Ice King Linear is categorized as 'silky', 'frictionless', 'subdued', 'creamy', and 'polished', the Kang White is categorized as 'low-pitched' and 'neutral'. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Linear and the KTT Kang White both feature nylon bottom housings, which are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with nylon housings. However, the Ice King Linear stands out with its nylon top housing, which further enhances the sound profile by absorbing more sound and creating a richer typing experience. On the other hand, the Kang White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in top housing material contributes to a unique auditory experience when compared to the Ice King Linear.
While both switches share a nylon bottom housing, their top housing materials set them apart in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The Durock Ice King Linear's nylon top housing creates a deep and full sound that is enhanced by the plastic's sound-absorbing properties. This results in a more subdued and round sound when typing on the switch. In contrast, the KTT Kang White's polycarbonate top housing produces a clear and resonant sound that is sharper and higher-pitched. Additionally, the polycarbonate material allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic element to the switch.
The division of housing materials in the Durock Ice King Linear and KTT Kang White impacts different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. With the Ice King Linear featuring a nylon top housing and bottom housing, the switch provides a consistent deep and fuller sound profile throughout the keystroke. On the other hand, the Kang White's combination of nylon bottom housing and polycarbonate top housing offers a unique blend of deep and clear sound characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference regarding sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Ice King Linear has a higher actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Kang White's 45 grams, making the Kang White the lighter of the two. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ice King Linear requires 62 grams compared to the Kang White's 58 grams, making the Ice King Linear the heavier option for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches fall under the medium category in terms of force required for actuation and bottoming out, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience, with some favoring the lighter actuation force of the Kang White for extended typing sessions and others preferring the heavier bottom out force of the Ice King Linear for a more satisfying key press.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, we see that the Ice King has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Kang White has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Kang White has a slightly longer travel distance than the Ice King. The Ice King's 3.5 mm travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a good choice for those who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Kang White's 4 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth and feedback, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience desired.
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 KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 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 Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a more subdued typing experience, producing a dampened sound when pressed, providing a subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, featuring a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement, suitable for various purposes. Both switches can deliver a satisfying typing sound, with the Ice King offering a more quiet and understated experience, while the Kang White providing a deeper and more neutral tone.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is described as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance and friction when pressing and releasing keys. The switch provides a buttery sensation and a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience. On the other hand, information about the feel of the KTT Kang White switch is not available. However, based on the qualities of the Ice King switch, it can be assumed that the Kang White switch may also offer a smooth and comfortable typing feel, although possibly lacking the specific characteristics mentioned for the Ice King switch.
In conclusion, both the Durock Ice King Linear and KTT Kang White linear switches have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ice King switch is praised for its subdued sound profile and silky smooth typing experience, enhanced by its full nylon construction and factory lube application. On the other hand, the Kang White switch delivers a low-pitched and neutral typing sound with self-lubricating material for an unparalleled smoothness. While the specific feel of the Kang White switch remains unknown, it is likely to offer a satisfying typing experience similar to that of the Ice King switch, providing users with a choice between a quieter, more refined typing feel or a deeper, more bass-heavy typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their merits and can cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Conclusion
In summary, when making a decision between the Durock Ice King Linear and the KTT Kang White linear switches, it is important to consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience with a medium bottom out force of 62 grams and a subdued sound profile, the Ice King Linear may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a slightly lower bottom out force of 58 grams, a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, and an exquisite poppy linear typing feel, the KTT Kang White switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and needs, whether you prioritize smoothness, sound, or actuation force.
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