Durock Ice King Linear vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Durock Ice King Linear and the TKC Kiwi mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Ice King Linear offers a silky smooth typing experience with its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, creating a frictionless and subdued feel while typing. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switch provides a tactile typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, accompanied by a satisfyingly snappy sound profile for an immersive experience. Despite these general pointers, it's important to delve deeper into the specific characteristics of each switch to determine which one best suits individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Linear and the TKC Kiwi both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Ice King Linear utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs sound effectively. In contrast, the Kiwi switches feature UHWMPE top and bottom housings, offering a bright sound signature with resonant clacks during typing. Despite both switches using different housing materials, they each aim to enhance the typing experience by delivering distinct auditory feedback.
While the Ice King Linear and the TKC Kiwi both prioritize sound quality through their housing materials, they offer varying sound profiles to cater to different preferences. The nylon housing of the Ice King Linear creates a duller and rounder sound, resulting in a more subdued typing experience that may appeal to those seeking a quieter switch. On the other hand, the UHWMPE housing of the Kiwi switches produces a bright and resonant sound, delivering a more vibrant typing sensation that is sure to stand out in a typing session.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Ice King Linear and the TKC Kiwi will come down to personal preference in sound profile. While the Ice King Linear offers a softer and deeper sound due to its nylon housing, the TKC Kiwi provides a brighter and more resonant typing experience with its UHWMPE housing. Both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience through their unique housing materials, ensuring that users can find the perfect switch to suit their individual preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch differ in weight, with the Ice King having a lighter actuation force of 52 grams and bottom out force of 62 grams, and the Kiwi having a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Kiwi may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience, while the heavier bottom out force of the Kiwi provides a more substantial typing feel. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing comfort and performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Ice King Linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Kiwi tactile switch. A 0.5 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can significantly impact the typing experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Ice King Linear switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial and satisfying keystroke may opt for the Kiwi tactile switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing habits.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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 and dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Kiwi switch features a low-pitched sound profile that is more bass-heavy and mellow, creating a truly immersive typing experience. Additionally, the Kiwi switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various environments. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycap materials.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Ice King Linear is known for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience. These descriptors highlight the exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience offered by this switch, minimizing resistance and providing a fluid travel sensation. On the other hand, the Kiwi switch is characterized as stepped, accented, and polished, offering a two-stage tactile feel with a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Both switches provide a refined and sleek typing experience due to materials used and factory lubing.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the TKC Kiwi switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Ice King Linear switch provides a subdued sound and a silky typing experience, the Kiwi switch offers a low-pitched sound profile and a stepped tactile feel. Depending on one's preference for sound and tactile feedback, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience right out of the box. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the TKC Kiwi switches, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with a subtle sound profile, then the Ice King Linear may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a snappy sound and moderate bump at the top of each key press, then the Kiwi switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. Whether you value smoothness and minimal sound or prefer a tactile bump and snappy feedback, both the Ice King Linear and Kiwi switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and enjoy a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences.
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