Durock Ice King Linear vs. Neo Lavender HE
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Neo Lavender HE switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Neo Lavender HE offer distinct experiences catering to different typing preferences. The Ice King Linear is celebrated for its silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lubrication. With descriptors like 'frictionless' and 'creamy,' this linear switch provides a subdued tactile feedback that many typists and gamers appreciate for its effortless keystrokes. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE utilizes Hall effect technology, providing a clean, low sound signature and compatibility with Wooting keyboards, making it a unique offering among magnetic switches. Its precise actuation can enhance responsiveness for users who prioritize speed and accuracy in their typing or gaming. Each switch has its own appeal: the Ice King Linear for those seeking a luxurious and smooth feel, and the Lavender HE for users who crave a distinctive, low-noise typing experience with advanced technology. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
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
16mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Ice King Linear and the Neo Lavender HE share a commonality in their housing materials, with both featuring top and bottom housings crafted from nylon. This choice of nylon contributes to a distinctive sound profile that emphasizes a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. The inherent properties of nylon, being a softer plastic, enable it to absorb sound more effectively than harder materials, which results in a duller and rounder sound signature. This similarity suggests that without other differing factors, typing on both switches will deliver a comparable auditory experience characterized by richness and warmth.
In terms of construction, the identical choice of nylon for both the top and bottom housings means that the Ice King Linear and the Lavender HE will provide a unified performance in terms of sound quality. The impact of these nylon housings can be felt distinctly in the typing experience; the bottom housing predominantly influences the sound and feel when a key bottoms out, while the top housing is more pertinent to the sound produced when releasing a key. Since both switches utilize nylon for these components, users can anticipate similar feedback and sound characteristics regardless of which switch is used, reinforcing the notion that players can achieve a comparable tactile and auditory response.
While both switches showcase the benefits of nylon in their design, the overall user experience may still differ due to other factors beyond housing materials, such as spring characteristics and actuation force. However, since the switch housings themselves are identical in material, users can confidently expect them to share a core acoustic character. Therefore, whether one opts for the Ice King Linear or the Neo Lavender HE, the typing experience will be deeply rooted in the qualities that nylon brings, offering a warm, full sound profile that typists and gamers alike can appreciate.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, one can observe notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Ice King Linear features an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Lavender HE is lighter, with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This lighter feel can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to activate a keystroke. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find the heavier Ice King Linear more satisfying, as it provides a stronger push feel. Overall, the Ice King is the heavier option, while the Lavender HE offers a lighter alternative, catering to different user preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, we see a notable difference. The Ice King Linear has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter of the two options. In contrast, the Lavender HE features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which provides a more pronounced depth when pressed. This distinction highlights the Ice King Linear's appeal for gamers seeking faster response times, as shorter travel distances are generally favored for their quick actuation. On the other hand, those who appreciate a more substantial feel during key presses may prefer the Lavender HE due to its longer travel distance. Overall, while both switches serve specific preferences in gaming and typing experiences, the Ice King Linear is the shorter option, whereas the Lavender HE offers a more traditional feel with its longer 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 Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Ice King Linear switch produces a subdued auditory experience. This means that while it is not completely silent, it generates a dampened sound that is more subtle compared to many other switches. Such a characteristic makes it suitable for environments where noise can be a concern, as it allows for typing without being overly intrusive. On the other hand, the Neo Lavender HE is known for its clean, low sound, which, along with its compatibility with Wooting keyboards, suggests it offers a refined auditory feedback that may appeal to users seeking a balanced audio output. However, specific comparisons between these two in terms of sound may vary based on the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Linear switch is truly exceptional. It is characterized by a silky smoothness that translates to an effortless typing experience, enhanced further by a frictionless action that minimizes any resistance while typing. With a creamy texture and polished finish, users can expect each keystroke to glide effortlessly, resulting in a typing sensation akin to floating over the keyboard. Unfortunately, the feel of the Lavender HE switch is not detailed in the current information, leaving an unspecified gap in its user experience.
In conclusion, both the Durock Ice King Linear and Neo Lavender HE switches offer distinct experiences that cater to specific preferences. The Ice King excels in creating a smooth and subdued typing environment, while the Lavender HE provides a clean, low sound with its own unique feel yet to be elaborated on. Those seeking a balance of subdued auditory feedback with an airy typing feel may find similar results between the two, though the Ice King guarantees a silky journey across the keys that is difficult to surpass.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch should reflect your personal typing preferences and the typing environment you desire. If you value a medium actuation force with a silky, frictionless feel that provides a smooth and refined typing experience, then the Ice King Linear is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suitable for those seeking a subdued sound profile while typing, making it ideal for shared spaces or quiet environments where you don’t want to disturb others. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a clean, low sound and are looking for versatility with keyboards that support hall effect switches, the Lavender HE is the way to go. It offers a unique typing experience distinct from traditional switches, providing the added benefit of quicker responsiveness. Ultimately, considering these characteristics will help you select the switch that best enhances your keyboard experience, whether you’re focused on speed, sound, or an exquisite tactile feel.
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