Durock Ice King Linear vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Durock Mamba mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique advantages to users. The Ice King Linear is praised for its silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, making it a popular choice for those seeking a frictionless and polished feel while typing. On the other hand, the Mamba switch pays tribute to Kobe Bryant and provides a gliding typing sensation with a rich and creamy auditory experience, appealing to users looking for a neutral and thocky switch. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
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
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Durock Mamba offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Ice King Linear features a nylon top and bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic and sound-absorbing properties. In contrast, the Mamba combines Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its top housing, offering a brighter sound compared to the Ice King Linear. Additionally, the Mamba incorporates a POM bottom housing, contributing to a more muted and deeper sound profile.
While both switches utilize nylon in their housing materials, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Durock Mamba produce distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Ice King Linear's nylon top and bottom housing result in a rounder and duller sound when typing, emphasizing the softer plastic's ability to absorb sound. In comparison, the Mamba's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the top housing creates a pleasant and bright sound, while the POM bottom housing adds depth and a muted quality to the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Durock Mamba comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in each switch impacts the overall sound profile and tactile feedback when typing. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound with the Ice King Linear's nylon housing or a brighter and unique sound with the Mamba's blend of materials, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, it is evident that the Ice King has a slightly higher actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Mamba, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Ice King requiring 62 grams and the Mamba needing 60 grams. In terms of weight, the Ice King is slightly heavier due to its higher actuation force, while the Mamba is lighter in this aspect. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Mamba, while users who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Ice King. Ultimately, the differences in actuation and bottom out force between these switches may result in a slightly varied typing experience, but overall, users can expect comparable results from both options.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear and the Durock Mamba linear switches have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when a key is pressed. Users can expect similar results in terms of key travel distance and overall feel when using either of these switches. The similarity in travel distance makes it easy for users to transition between the two switches without having to adjust to a different typing experience. So, if you prefer a 3.5 mm travel distance, both the Ice King Linear and the Mamba linear switches will provide you with the same level of key travel for your typing needs.
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 Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 is known for producing a subdued sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switch is described as having a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various purposes. Additionally, the Mamba switch is noted for its thocky sound, which produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is praised for its silky and frictionless typing experience, offering minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The switch is also described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery typing sensation. Additionally, the Ice King Linear switch is noted for its polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switch is described as offering a mild typing experience, standing in a safe middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. Similar to the Ice King Linear switch, the Mamba switch is also noted for its polished finish, providing a smooth and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a silky, creamy, and polished typing experience with a subdued sound profile. In contrast, the Durock Mamba switch provides a neutral sound profile with a thocky sound and a mild typing sensation. Both switches excel in providing smooth and refined typing experiences, with the Ice King Linear leaning towards a more luxurious, buttery feel and the Mamba offering a versatile and approachable typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences in sound and feel, as both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience with their unique characteristics.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a smooth and silky typing experience with a slightly higher bottom out force, you may prefer the Durock Ice King Linear switches. On the other hand, if you are seeking a moderate typing experience with a slightly lower bottom out force and enjoy a rich and creamy auditory sensation, the Durock Mamba linear switches may be more suitable for you. Consider your preference for typing feel and sound profile when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your personal preferences for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
