Durock Ice King Linear vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the KTT Mint mechanical keyboard switches, both options offer their own unique qualities to enhance your typing experience. The Ice King Linear is highly praised for its silky smooth feel, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lubrication. On the other hand, the Mint switch is celebrated for its satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem design. The Ice King Linear is described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', while the Mint is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. When deciding between these switches, considering factors such as feel, sound, and typing speed may help you determine which option best suits your preferences. 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
53g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the Durock Ice King Linear and the KTT Mint, the housing materials play a significant role in determining the sound profile of the switches. The Ice King Linear features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Mint utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing of these switches, both the Ice King Linear and the Mint feature nylon bottom housings. This shared material choice results in a similarly deep and full sound profile for both switches, as nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. The consistency in bottom housing material between the two switches ensures a familiar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. However, it is worth noting that the top housing material may have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key, emphasizing the importance of both components in creating a well-rounded typing experience.
While the Ice King Linear and the KTT Mint share nylon bottom housings, their differing top housing materials offer unique sound profiles that cater to varying preferences. The Ice King Linear's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Mint's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the use of translucent polycarbonate in the Mint's top housing makes it ideal for RGB lighting enthusiasts looking to showcase their switches. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to individual preferences in sound profile and aesthetic preferences, highlighting the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear and the KTT Mint linear switches, we find some key differences. The Ice King Linear has a higher actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Mint's 45 grams, making it slightly heavier. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ice King requires 62 grams while the Mint only needs 53 grams, making the Mint the lighter option overall. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of actuation force, but the Mint is closer to the medium-light range compared to the Ice King. If you prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the Mint may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience for added feedback, the Ice King may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Mint linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Ice King Linear has a shorter travel distance compared to the Mint switch. The 3.5 mm travel distance of the Ice King Linear may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, as shorter travel distances are favored in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Mint switch may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, so the choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and 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 KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 per 10 switches.
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 KTT Mint switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile with a mellow tone and a neutral actuation force requirement. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Ice King Linear offering a quieter typing experience compared to the Mint's bass-heavy thockiness.
When it comes to feel, the Ice King Linear switch stands out for its silky, frictionless, and creamy typing experience, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless sensation when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch enhances the overall typing feel, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the KTT Mint switch offers a mild typing experience that is more gentle and approachable, with a polished finish for smooth key travel. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable typing feel, with the Ice King Linear emphasizing smoothness and the Mint focusing on a safe, middle-ground zone of tactility.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Linear and KTT Mint switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ice King Linear switch emphasizes a subdued sound and silky typing experience, while the Mint switch provides a low-pitched sound profile and a mild typing feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. It is important to consider other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps, as they also play a role in the overall sound and feel of the switches. Ultimately, whether opting for the Ice King Linear or the KTT Mint, users can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, consider the factors that are most important to you. If you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a subdued sound, the Ice King Linear may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and fleeting type feel with a lower bottom out force, along with a poppy thockiness sound and a polished finish, the KTT Mint might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal typing preferences and the overall experience you are seeking in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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