Durock Ice King Linear vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Ice King Linear and the Haimu Neo White are both linear mechanical keyboard switches with their own unique features and characteristics. The Ice King Linear is renowned for its silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. On the other hand, the Neo White switches offer a distinctive typing feel with their medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, as well as a smooth actuation due to the rare use of a Ly stem. While the Ice King Linear is described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Neo White is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral'. Each switch has its own strengths and 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Linear and the Haimu Neo White both feature a top housing material that contributes significantly to the sound profile of the switches. The Ice King Linear's nylon top housing promotes a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Neo White's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffer plastic. While both materials have their distinct advantages, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound preference.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Ice King Linear and the Neo White utilize nylon for its softer properties that create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This consistency in material choice for the bottom housing ensures that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing allows for a more consistent sound profile across the entire switch, providing a cohesive typing experience for users who appreciate a duller and rounder sound.
It is important to note that the split between the top and bottom housing materials in a switch can impact the overall sound and feel of typing. The qualities of the bottom housing material will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material will influence the sound when a key is released. This distinction highlights the importance of selecting the right combination of housing materials to achieve the desired sound profile for a switch. Both the Ice King Linear and the Neo White offer a tailored typing experience with their choice of housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium-weight linear switch. In comparison, the Haimu Neo White linear switch does not list a specific actuation force but has a bottom out force of 58 grams, also falling into the medium-weight category. Both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of weight, with the Ice King being slightly heavier at the actuation point. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Neo White, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might opt for the Ice King. Ultimately, both switches offer a balance between actuation and bottom out forces, catering to a wide range of typing preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are becoming popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Ice King Linear with its slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking a quick and responsive feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Neo White switch with its slightly longer travel distance may offer a more substantial and satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a bit more depth in their switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for responsiveness and feel.
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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 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 subdued typing experience with a dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switch has a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement that makes it suitable for various typing purposes. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Ice King Linear switch is described as providing a silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience, offering exceptional smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White switch offers a mild typing experience that is more gentle compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Both switches provide smooth key travel, but the Ice King Linear switch takes it a step further with its range of silky sensations.
Considering all the available information, the Durock Ice King Linear switch excels in providing a smooth and satisfying typing experience with its silky feel and subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switch offers a more neutral sound and a gentler typing experience. Overall, if you prefer a switch with a more pronounced smoothness and a dampened sound, the Ice King Linear would be the ideal choice. However, if you are looking for a switch with a balanced feel and sound that caters to various typing preferences, the Neo White switch would be a reliable option, as both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Haimu Neo White linear switches, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience with a slightly higher bottom out force, opt for the Durock Ice King Linear switches. These switches offer a frictionless and polished feel, perfect for those who enjoy a buttery typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight switch with a mild typing experience and a neutral sound profile, the Haimu Neo White linear switches might be the better choice for you. These switches are versatile and suitable for a wide range of users, making them a great option for both beginners and advanced typists. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preference for feel and sound, so choose based on what will enhance your typing experience the most.
Mentioned in this article
