Durock Ice King Linear vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Linear and the Cherry MX Brown mechanical keyboard switches, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference. The Ice King Linear is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, making it a great choice for those who prefer a frictionless and subdued typing feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their subtle tactile feedback and relatively light typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy a textured and low-pitched typing feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities and benefits depending on individual 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
55g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Cherry MX Brown, both switches utilize a nylon top and bottom housing material. The use of nylon in both switches allows for a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This creates a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience for users of both switches. While the Ice King Linear and MX Brown share similar housing materials, the specific design and construction of each switch may still result in subtle differences in sound and feel.
Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their housing materials, the Ice King Linear and Cherry MX Brown may vary in the production and manufacturing process, which could influence the overall performance of each switch. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. Understanding how the placement of the nylon housing material contributes to the overall typing experience can help users distinguish between the Ice King Linear and the MX Brown switches.
Ultimately, the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Cherry MX Brown, while similar in nature, may offer distinct typing experiences due to differences in switch design and construction. Both switches benefit from the use of nylon housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile that enhances the typing experience. Whether a user prefers the Ice King Linear or MX Brown switch will likely come down to personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall performance. Overall, the similarities in housing materials between the two switches suggest that users can expect comparable results in terms of sound and feel when typing on either the Ice King Linear or the Cherry MX Brown.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Ice King Linear requires a slightly heavier touch. With an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, the Ice King Linear is slightly heavier than the MX Brown, which has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of force required, but the Ice King Linear leans towards the heavier side compared to the MX Brown, which is considered medium-light. The Ice King Linear provides a more substantial typing experience, while the MX Brown offers a lighter touch that may be preferred for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ice King Linear switch falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, offering quicker response times that are preferred by gamers. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch provides a slightly deeper press, which some users may find more satisfying for typing or general use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired feel while typing.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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 subtle sound profile, providing a quiet typing experience that won't be too disruptive in quieter environments. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch produces a bassier and lower-pitched sound, giving a deeper and richer audio feedback during key presses. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on your preference for sound, as well as other factors like your keyboard and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is known for its silky and frictionless typing experience, offering smooth key presses with minimal resistance. This results in a fluid and effortless typing sensation, akin to gliding your fingers across the keys effortlessly. Conversely, the Cherry MX Brown switch is described as having a textured feel, which may appeal to those who prefer a bit of friction or feedback when typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to whether you prefer a smooth or textured typing experience.
Overall, both the Durock Ice King Linear and Cherry MX Brown switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a quieter and smoother typing experience, the Ice King Linear may be the better fit for you. However, if you prefer a richer sound profile and a bit of tactile feedback, the Cherry MX Brown switch could be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, trying out both switches on a keyboard to see which one you personally prefer is the best way to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown switch, consider your typing preferences. If you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience with a medium bottom out force, opt for the Ice King Linear. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter tactile feedback with a subtle sound profile, the Cherry MX Brown switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer the smoothness of the Ice King Linear or the gentle tactility of the MX Brown. Both switches offer unique characteristics, so choose based on what best suits your typing style and preferences.
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