Durock Ice King Linear vs. Bsun Light Sakura
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Bsun Light Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Bsun Light Sakura offer their own unique benefits catering to different preferences and typing experiences. The Ice King Linear is celebrated for its silky smooth feel, characterized by a frictionless and creamy action that promotes a polished typing experience, making it ideal for users who value a luxurious touch and responsive feedback. On the other hand, the Bsun Light Sakura is designed with discretion and comfort in mind; its ultra-light touch and silent operation cater to users who need an unobtrusive typing experience, particularly in shared spaces or office environments. While the Ice King entails a more tactile indulgence, the Light Sakura emphasizes a gentle approach, minimizing noise and fatigue during long typing sessions. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your typing style and environment.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Linear and the Bsun Light Sakura represent two distinct approaches to housing materials in mechanical keyboard switches, with differing implications for sound and typing experience. The Ice King Linear features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to absorb sound and create a deeper, fuller acoustic profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic, which leads to a rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the Light Sakura sports a polycarbonate top housing, which, because of its stiffer nature, produces a sharper and crisper sound. This distinction in material properties implies that users of these switches will experience notable differences in auditory feedback, with the Ice King Linear promoting a more muted sound while the Light Sakura provides a brighter, more resonant typing experience.
When examining the bottom housings, the differences between the two models are similarly pronounced. The Ice King Linear maintains its nylon bottom housing, reinforcing the characteristic deeper sound profile throughout the switch. Conversely, the Light Sakura employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, further enhancing its ability to deliver a high-pitched and crisp acoustic quality. The choice of materials plays a significant role here, as the bottom housing contributes importantly to the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed down. Thus, while both switches utilize nylon in the Ice King and polycarbonate in the Light Sakura, they diverge in their overall sound signatures, leading to unique experiences in terms of acoustic feedback and tactile sensation.
Despite the differing housing materials, both the Ice King Linear and the Light Sakura can achieve satisfying results depending on user preferences for sound profiles. For enthusiasts seeking a duller and warmer sound, the Ice King Linear's use of nylon across both the top and bottom housings will deliver a cohesive, resonant experience. Conversely, users attracted to a clearer, more dynamic sound will find the Light Sakura's polycarbonate construction, used throughout, to be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these two models hinges on whether an individual favors the softer, deeper sound of nylon or the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate, but both options ensure a satisfying tactile and auditory experience on both ends of the keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Ice King Linear and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switches, there is a distinct difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Ice King Linear has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, classifying it as a medium switch. In contrast, the Light Sakura features a significantly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a lighter option. This provides a stark contrast in typing experience—those who prefer a lighter switch may find the Light Sakura more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while users who enjoy a stronger push feel might lean towards the Ice King Linear for a more substantial tactile feedback. Ultimately, the Ice King Linear is the heavier switch, making it preferable for those who favor a firmer keystroke, while the Light Sakura caters to those who seek a lighter, more effortless typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, it is clear that the Ice King has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Light Sakura features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Durock Ice King the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that some gamers might prefer for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Bsun Light Sakura, with its 3.6 mm travel distance, provides a more traditional depth that may appeal to users who appreciate a more substantial tactile experience when pressing keys. Ultimately, while both switches fall into a similar range, those prioritizing responsiveness may lean towards the Ice King, while others seeking a more hearty feel might favor the Light Sakura.
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 Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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 switches are characterized by a subdued quality, producing a dampened sound upon pressing that is less intrusive than many other switches. While they aren't entirely silent, they provide a more refined auditory experience that makes them suitable for various environments, especially if you're looking for a more discreet option. The sound profile of the Bsun Light Sakura switches remains unknown, but they are marketed as silent, implying a focus on minimal auditory feedback. Therefore, users can expect the Light Sakura to provide a quiet experience, complementing their intended use in shared spaces and offices.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Linear switches shine with their description as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished. This means users can expect an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience where the keys glide seamlessly under their fingers. The combination of factory lubrication and high-quality materials results in a refined finish that minimizes resistance and enhances comfort during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, information regarding the tactile feel of the Light Sakura switches is not specified. However, their ultra-light design suggests a focus on comfort, which may offer a pleasant typing experience as well.
In conclusion, both the Durock Ice King Linear and Bsun Light Sakura switches provide unique advantages tailored to different user preferences. The Ice King Linears offer a smooth, subdued typing experience ideal for those who appreciate a silky feel and refined sound. Meanwhile, the Light Sakura switches prioritize silence and comfort for users working in environments where noise levels are a concern. Ultimately, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, albeit with distinct focuses on sound and feel, allowing newcomers to choose based on their specific needs and settings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you appreciate a medium bottom-out force, coupled with a silky, frictionless feel, the Ice King Linear is ideal for you. Its subdued sound signature and polished finish make it a fantastic choice for both casual and more intensive typing sessions where you desire smooth keystrokes without excessive noise. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter touch and want to minimize fatigue during long typing sessions, the Light Sakura is tailored to your needs. Its exceptionally light bottom-out force and silent operation make it perfect for shared office spaces or for those who simply want a gentle typing experience. Therefore, consider your priorities—whether it’s the smoothness and a bit more resistance of the Ice King or the feather-light comfort and quietness of the Light Sakura—before making your choice.
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