Durock Ice King Linear vs. KTT MoonRosa
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the KTT MoonRosa switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Linear and the KTT MoonRosa mechanical keyboard switches, both offer a smooth typing experience, but with subtle differences in their characteristics. The Ice King Linear boasts a silky and frictionless feel, thanks to its full nylon construction and factory lube, making it a subdued and creamy switch. On the other hand, the MoonRosa switch stands out for its buttery smooth typing experience, attributed to its all-POM construction, and is noted for its mild, low-pitched sound signature and easy-to-press keys. Each switch has its unique qualities that may 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
37g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the KTT MoonRosa switches differ in terms of their top and bottom materials. The Ice King Linear features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deep and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the MoonRosa utilizes a POM top and bottom housing, resulting in a unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. Despite the differences in materials, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of producing a rich and round sound that is distinct to their respective housing materials.
In terms of sound production, the top housing material plays a significant role in determining the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing material influences the sound and feel when a key is pressed down. The Nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear and the POM top housing of the MoonRosa contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches in distinct ways. The Durock Ice King Linear provides a deeper and fuller sound profile with its Nylon top housing, creating a duller and rounder sound upon key release, while the KTT MoonRosa offers a more muted sound with its POM top housing that is unique and pleasing to the ear.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Ice King Linear and the KTT MoonRosa switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. Both switches offer a unique typing experience with their distinct housing materials, providing users with a deep and rich sound that is characteristic of Nylon and POM materials. Whether you prefer a fuller sound with the Ice King Linear's Nylon housing or a more muted sound with the MoonRosa's POM housing, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience that showcases the qualities of their respective materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, there are notable differences between the two. The Ice King Linear switch has a higher actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a medium feel. In contrast, the MoonRosa switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it feel lighter overall. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Ice King Linear switch due to its higher forces, while individuals looking for a lighter touch may opt for the MoonRosa switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference, with lighter switches being ideal for longer typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more satisfying typing experience for some users.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, users will experience a consistent travel distance, resulting in similar typing experiences. Whether typing on the Ice King Linear or the MoonRosa, the feedback and feel of the keypress will be comparable due to their identical travel distances. Therefore, there is no difference in travel distance between the two switches.
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 MoonRosa comes in at $4.88 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 offers a more subdued and dampened sound when pressed, providing a subtle sound signature that is not completely silent. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa switch provides a low-pitched, bass-heavy, and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The choice of board and keycaps will also influence the overall sound of the switch.
When it comes to feel, the Ice King Linear switch is known for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience. These descriptors indicate an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing feel with minimal resistance and friction. Conversely, the MoonRosa switch is described as mild and easy-to-press, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal force required to activate the keys. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, but the Ice King Linear may offer a slightly smoother and more refined feel.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Linear and KTT MoonRosa linear switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ice King may provide a slightly smoother typing experience with its creamy and polished attributes, the MoonRosa offers a gentle and easy-to-press typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel, as both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience with their distinct characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Ice King Linear or the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a silky, frictionless typing experience with a subdued sound signature, the Ice King Linear may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the MoonRosa switch might be more suitable for your needs. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, your choice between the Ice King Linear and MoonRosa switch will depend on the typing experience you desire.
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