Durock Ice King Linear vs. Jerrzi Lotus V2
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Jerrzi Lotus V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Jerrzi Lotus V2 both offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences. The Ice King Linear is celebrated for its silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lubrication, creating a frictionless sensation that's both subdued and creamy. This switch is ideal for those who seek a polished feel in their typing or gaming experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Lotus V2, while lacking a distinct reputation or specifics in its attributes, may still appeal to users who appreciate a straightforward, potentially more versatile linear switch. Each switch has its own charm and could enhance your keyboard experience differently based on your individual needs and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Jerrzi Lotus V2, we see that they each employ different types of plastics that contribute distinct qualities to their sound profiles. The Ice King Linear features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is noted for creating a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's softer, more sound-absorbing properties. This results in a mellower acoustic experience, as the nylon absorbs vibrations effectively, leading to a duller and rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the Lotus V2 utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housings. POM, while also capable of producing a deep sound, is characterized by its unique acoustic profile that leans towards a muted and pleaseing resonance. The difference in materials inherently gives each switch its own auditory signature, despite the fact that both aim for deeper sound profiles.
Though the materials differ, both the Ice King Linear and Lotus V2 can ultimately yield similar auditory results due to their shared emphasis on creating a deeper sound experience. The Ice King, with its nylon, absorbs sound effectively while enhancing a rounder tone, while the Lotus V2 leverages POM's characteristics to achieve a similarly pleasing yet distinct sound. This means that, while their materials and resultant sound characteristics are not identical, users could potentially experience a comparable satisfaction with the deeper tones offered by either switch, catering to those who appreciate a more muted or composed sound when typing.
Moreover, the impact of each housing material is determined by how they interact within the construction of the switch. The Ice King Linear's nylon housings contribute to the typing experience both in terms of the bottom-out feel and the acoustic response when releasing a key. Conversely, the Lotus V2's POM housings, while they may yield a different tactile feedback and sound, share a similar behavioral pattern where the bottom housing's qualities enhance the bottom-out noise and feel, while the top housing influences the release sound. Ultimately, even though the materials differ, both switches have been designed to provide a harmonious soundscape, necessitating an understanding of how the plastic properties interplay with the user experience across these two unique offerings.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch, a notable difference arises in their actuation forces. The Ice King Linear has an actuation force of 52 grams, making it a medium-weight option, while the Lotus V2 is lighter at 45 grams. This lighter actuation force of the Lotus V2 may benefit users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, particularly during prolonged use, such as extensive work or gaming sessions. In terms of bottom out force, the Ice King Linear switches exhibit a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a more substantial push feel when pressing the key all the way down. Conversely, the bottom out force for the Lotus V2 is not provided, leaving that aspect unknown. As such, the Ice King Linear is the heavier option, offering a more pronounced tactile feedback while the Lotus V2 caters to those seeking a lighter switch for easier keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when using these switches, the Ice King offers a deeper press compared to the Lotus V2, making it preferable for those who appreciate a more substantial feel in their keystrokes. Conversely, the Lotus V2's shorter distance might provide the faster response time that many gamers seek, allowing for quick actions in competitive settings. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference: if you enjoy a deeper, more pronounced keystroke, the Ice King is the better option, while the Lotus V2 could appeal to those who favor rapid responses with less 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 Jerrzi Lotus V2 has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus V2 for $3.59.
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 presents a subdued auditory profile, characterized by a dampened sound that strikes a balance between not being entirely silent and yet offering a generally softer sound signature than many other switches. This makes it well-suited for environments where a lesser auditory disturbance is desired, such as shared workspaces or during late-night typing sessions. The Jerrzi Lotus V2's sound characteristics remain unmentioned, leaving an unknown element in the acoustic experience it offers. Therefore, if the sound of the Lotus V2 switch is important to you, consider that it could vary significantly from the Ice King Linear.
In terms of feel, the Durock Ice King Linear switch excels with descriptors such as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished. This combination suggests an exceptional typing experience that minimizes resistance, allowing for fluid keystrokes and effortless gliding across the keys. Each of these descriptors indicates a premium experience, enhanced by its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, making every keystroke feel smooth and refined. On the other hand, the feel of the Jerrzi Lotus V2 remains unidentified, leaving a gap in understanding what kind of tactile experience it might provide. Users interested in the tactile feedback of the Lotus V2 will have to seek additional information.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Linear switch stands out for its subdued sound and remarkably smooth feel, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a quieter and fluid typing experience. In contrast, the Jerrzi Lotus V2 lacks available details about its sound and feel, which limits comparisons and may lead potential users to reconsider based on the tactile qualities they are seeking. If you're drawn to an exceptionally smooth experience, the Ice King could be your best bet, while it remains uncertain what unique qualities the Lotus V2 might bring to the table.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the Jerrzi Lotus V2 Linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound, and performance. If you value a silky smooth typing experience and want a switch that feels frictionless and creamy, the Ice King Linear is an excellent choice. Its medium bottom-out force of 62 grams provides a balanced tactile feedback that enhances typing efficiency while still being comfortable for extended use. Additionally, the subdued sound profile ensures that your typing isn't disruptive in quieter environments, making it perfect for both work and leisure. On the other hand, if the Lotus V2 Linear's specifications become available in the future and it features characteristics that align more with your particular typing style or sound preference, then it could be worth considering as well. However, without concrete details on the Lotus V2's performance, it's hard to recommend it over the well-established Ice King Linear. Therefore, if you're looking for a reliable switch that offers a refined typing experience right now, the Ice King Linear stands as the more compelling option.
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