Durock Ice King Linear vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Linear and the Durock Lupine mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Ice King Linear stands out for its silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, creating a frictionless and creamy feel. On the other hand, the Lupine showcases a different feel with its two-stage long springs, providing a consistent weight distribution on the press down and a powerful rebound movement. The Lupine also offers a classic clacky sound profile, in contrast to the subdued sound of the Ice King Linear. If you prefer a smoother, subdued typing experience, the Ice King Linear may be your choice. However, if you enjoy a more tactile and clacky feel with your switches, the Lupine could be the better option for you. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Linear and Durock Lupine 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 these switches. In contrast, the Ice King Linear utilizes a nylon top housing, continuing the trend of creating a similar sound profile throughout the switch. On the other hand, the Lupine features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in top housing material leads to a more clear and resonant sound compared to the Ice King Linear's fuller sound.
While both the Ice King Linear and Lupine share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, the choice of top housing material sets them apart. The Ice King Linear, with its nylon top housing, maintains a consistent sound profile with the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. In comparison, the Lupine's polycarbonate top housing offers a different sound experience, producing a sharper and crisp sound that is more resonant. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing in the Lupine makes it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall switch design.
In terms of tactile experience, the difference in top housing material between the Durock Ice King Linear and Lupine can significantly impact the overall typing feel. While the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, it is the top housing material that influences the sound when letting go of a key. The softer nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear may provide a slightly softer sound upon key release, compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Lupine. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, with the nylon and polycarbonate top housing materials offering distinct auditory experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, it is evident that the Ice King has a specified actuation force of 52 grams, while the Lupine's actuation force is unknown. However, both have a bottom out force of 62 grams. In terms of weight, the Ice King is lighter with its actuation force, which may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Lupine offers a more substantial typing experience with a potentially heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the similar bottom out force ensures that users can expect comparable results in terms of the force required for full key presses on both switches.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them ideal for those looking for quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distances for faster reaction speeds when gaming. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt, in which case they may prefer the switch with the longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing experience.
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 Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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 subdued sound profile, providing a quieter typing experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch has a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, but leans towards a higher-pitched sound when pressed. Depending on personal preference, the Ice King Linear may be more suitable for those looking for a quieter typing experience, while the Lupine may appeal to individuals who enjoy a crisper and sharper sound profile when typing.
Moving on to feel, the Ice King Linear switch is praised for its silky and frictionless typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke with minimal resistance. Additionally, the creamy and polished feel of the Ice King Linear switch enhances the overall typing sensation, allowing for a seamless and fluid typing experience. Conversely, the Lupine switch is described as having a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. The Lupine also shares the polished feel with the Ice King Linear, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction during typing.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Linear and Lupine linear switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Ice King Linear switch provides a quieter and smoother typing experience with a subdued sound profile and silky feel, the Lupine switch delivers a moderate sound profile with higher-pitched tones alongside a mild and polished typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user needs. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality performance and can deliver satisfying results based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Durock Lupine linear switches, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a silky smooth typing experience with minimal resistance, the Ice King Linear may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more dynamic feel with a unique two-stage spring design and a classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, so your decision may come down to the specific sound and feel you desire in a keyboard switch. Choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for an optimal typing experience.
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