Durock Ice King Linear vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Linear and the SP-Star Meteor Orange are popular options on the market. The Ice King Linear is a linear switch that offers a silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its full nylon construction and factory lube, making it a frictionless and polished choice for those seeking a subdued feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange is a tactile switch that boasts a gentle tactility and a neutral sound profile, providing a mild and thocky typing experience that is both soft and seductive. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences and typing styles. 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
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Linear and the SP-Star Meteor Orange both use nylon as the material for their top and bottom switch housings. This choice of material results in switches that produce a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches made with harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This means that typing on these switches will likely provide a more satisfying auditory experience for those who enjoy a quieter and more tactile typing experience.
While both the Ice King Linear and the Meteor Orange use nylon for their switch housings, they may differ in terms of the specific formulation or production process of the material. This could potentially lead to slight variations in the sound and feel of typing on the switches, although the overall characteristics of nylon should still shine through. The impact of the bottom housing material on the switch's sound when bottoming out and the top housing material on the sound when releasing a key should be evenly balanced in both switches, thanks to the consistent use of nylon throughout.
In conclusion, the use of nylon as the housing material for both the Durock Ice King Linear and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches results in switches with similar sound profiles and typing experiences. While there may be subtle differences in the manufacturing processes or formulation of the nylon material used in each switch, the overall qualities of nylon as a softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively remain consistent. Typing on either switch should provide a deep and full sound profile, making them suitable choices for those looking for a quieter and more tactile typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, a few key differences emerge. The Ice King Linear has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium-weight switch overall. In contrast, the Meteor Orange switch has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 57 grams, which puts it in the medium-light category. This means that the Ice King Linear switch requires a slightly heavier touch to activate the keystroke compared to the Meteor Orange switch. Individuals who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Meteor Orange switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Ice King Linear switch for a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Ice King Linear due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper key press may lean towards the Meteor Orange switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to varying preferences in typing or gaming. Ultimately, the chosen switch should align with the individual's desired level of key travel depth.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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, producing a dampened sound when pressed. This makes it a good option for those looking for a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile, suitable for a variety of users with its moderate actuation force requirement. Additionally, the Meteor Orange switch also has a thocky sound profile, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed and released. Both switches offer different sound experiences, catering to varying preferences.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is praised for its silky, frictionless, and creamy typing experience. These qualities result in an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing feel, enhancing the overall typing experience. In comparison, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a mild typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a more gentle feel. Both switches are described as polished, providing a smooth and refined finish that contributes to a sleek typing experience. While each switch offers a unique feel, they both prioritize providing a comfortable typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Ice King Linear provides a subdued sound profile and a silky typing feel, while the Meteor Orange offers a neutral sound and a mild typing experience. Both switches are polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch or the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a keyboard switch. If you seek a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Ice King Linear may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle tactility with a slightly lighter bottom out force and a thocky sound profile, the Meteor Orange switch could be more appealing. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what characteristics are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Ice King Linear and Meteor Orange switches will depend on what typing experience you value the most.
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