Durock Ice King Linear vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the SP-Star Meteor White mechanical keyboard switches, there are a few key differences to consider. The Ice King Linear boasts a 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 Meteor White offers a subdued and gentle typing experience with a soft sound profile, making it easy to push and producing a pitter-patter sound. While the Ice King Linear is categorized as 'Silky' and 'Creamy', the Meteor White is described as 'Neutral' and 'Thocky'. 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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Linear and the SP-Star Meteor White both feature nylon top and bottom housing materials, which create a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, allowing users to enjoy a satisfying typing experience with a quiet and muted sound profile.
While both switches share the same nylon housing materials, the Ice King Linear and Meteor White may differ in the specific design and construction of their housings. The quality and thickness of the nylon material, as well as any additional components or features integrated into the housing, could impact the overall typing experience on each switch. Users may notice subtle differences in sound and feel between the two switches, depending on the nuances of their housing design.
Overall, the similarities in housing material between the Durock Ice King Linear and the SP-Star Meteor White suggest that users can expect comparable performance in terms of sound and feel when typing on both switches. The nylon housing materials in both switches contribute to a quiet, deep, and full sound profile, making them suitable choices for those looking for a smooth typing experience. Whether choosing the Ice King Linear or the Meteor White, users can enjoy the benefits of nylon housing for a more enjoyable and satisfying 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 White linear switch, it is evident that the Ice King Linear has a higher actuation force of 52 grams, compared to the Meteor White's unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Meteor White is lighter at 57 grams, while the Ice King Linear requires 62 grams to bottom out. This makes the Meteor White a lighter option for those looking for a smoother typing experience, while the Ice King Linear provides a more substantial push feel. Both switches offer a medium to medium-light resistance, allowing users to type comfortably for extended periods. Ultimately, the decision 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, which is shorter compared to the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ice King Linear switch offers a more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch provides a deeper keystroke with its longer travel distance, catering to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and the type of typing experience you prefer.
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 White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White 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
When it comes to sound, the Ice King Linear and the Meteor White switches both offer a soft and gentle typing experience. The Ice King Linear switch provides a subdued sound profile, offering a dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch is described as having a neutral sound profile with a thocky quality, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. Ultimately, both switches provide a quiet and pleasant typing sound that is suitable for various environments.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Linear switch is lauded for its silky, frictionless, and creamy typing experience, making for smooth and effortless key presses. The switch also boasts a polished finish, enhancing the overall typing feel with reduced friction. Similarly, the Meteor White switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the switch also features a polished finish for smooth key travel. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel that caters to different preferences.
Considering the subjective qualities of the Durock Ice King Linear and the SP-Star Meteor White switches, it is evident that both switches excel in providing a soft and gentle typing experience. While the Ice King Linear switch emphasizes a silky and frictionless feel, the Meteor White switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. In terms of sound, both switches deliver a quiet and pleasing sound profile, with the Ice King Linear being more subdued and the Meteor White having a thocky quality. Ultimately, newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world can expect similar results in terms of a soft and smooth typing experience with either of these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switches, you should consider your preference for typing feel and sound profile. If you desire a silky smooth typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a subdued sound profile, the Ice King Linear would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle, easy to push switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a neutral or thocky sound profile, the Meteor White may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value the most and which switch aligns better with your preferences.
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