Durock Ice King Linear vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Linear and the Dareu Master linear mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences in their features and characteristics. The Ice King Linear offers a silky smooth typing experience with its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, making it a popular choice for those seeking a frictionless and creamier typing feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch strikes a medium weight balance and provides a classic clacky sound signature, along with exceptional smoothness in operation. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experience. 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
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
Partial 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
The Durock Ice King Linear and the Dareu Master both utilize different housing materials for their switches, with the Ice King Linear featuring a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Dareu Master opts for a POM top and bottom housing. Both nylon and POM are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, with nylon being softer and absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, POM housings are described as creating a more muted and unique sound profile on the deeper side.
While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, they do differ in terms of the impact the top and bottom housing have on the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, with the qualities of the housing material being more noticeable in this action. Conversely, the top housing has more influence on the sound when the key is released, creating a subtle but distinct difference in the overall typing experience between the two switches.
In essence, both the Ice King Linear and the Dareu Master offer a unique typing experience thanks to their different housing materials. While the nylon top and bottom housing of the Ice King Linear provide a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder sound, the POM top and bottom housing of the Dareu Master offer a more muted and pleasing sound profile on the deeper side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel during typing.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch have differing actuation and bottom out forces. The Ice King has a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Master's 45 grams. However, the Ice King also has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Master's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Ice King would provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher forces, while the Master may feel lighter and easier to type on. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to users who prefer either a lighter or heavier feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for typing force.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm. In this case, the Ice King has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Master. The difference between the two is minimal, so the typing experience would be quite similar with both switches. Both fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them ideal for those who prefer a faster response time, such as gamers. It ultimately comes down to personal preference whether you prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial feel or a shorter travel distance for quick responsiveness.
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 Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature when pressed. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch produces a clacky sound, delivering a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Ice King Linear switch is praised for its silky typing experience, offering exceptional smoothness and minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. It is also described as frictionless, creamy, and polished, providing a buttery smooth typing sensation. In contrast, the Dareu Master linear switch is characterized as mild, offering a gentle typing experience suitable for most users. Like the Ice King, it is also described as polished, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel qualities of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Dareu Master linear switches, it is evident that they offer distinct experiences to users. While the Ice King Linear provides a subdued sound and a silky typing feel, the Dareu Master offers a clacky sound and a mild typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel. Rest assured, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Dareu Master linear switches, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a silky smooth typing experience with a subdued sound, the Ice King Linear switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium weight switch with a classic clacky sound signature and a polished feel that falls in the mild and polished categories, the Dareu Master linear switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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