Durock Ice King Linear vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Cherry Nixie linear switches, you are presented with two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The Ice King Linear offers a silky smooth typing experience with its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, creating a frictionless and subdued feel that is described as creamy and polished. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie stands out for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, thanks to the updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update, giving it a textured, thocky, and low-pitched profile. Both switches have their unique strengths and characteristics that appeal to different users, but ultimately, the choice between them will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
80g
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 Cherry Nixie both feature nylon top and bottom housings, which are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic housings. The use of nylon in both switches ensures a consistent typing experience with regards to sound and feel, making them ideal choices for those who appreciate a more subdued sound profile while typing.
While both switches share the same nylon housing material, the Ice King Linear and the Cherry Nixie may offer slightly different typing experiences based on other factors such as the stem and spring design. The top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, even though both switches feature nylon housings, the overall typing experience may vary slightly due to these intricate design details.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Cherry Nixie may come down to personal preference in terms of the stem, spring, and other design features rather than the housing material itself. Both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel due to the nylon housing, making them reliable options for those looking for switches with a more muted sound. Whether it's the Ice King Linear or the Cherry Nixie, users can expect a consistent typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound thanks to the nylon housing material used in both switches.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Cherry Nixie linear switch which has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ice King Linear requires 62 grams to fully press down, while the Nixie needs 80 grams, making it the heavier option. This means that the Ice King Linear provides a lighter typing experience overall, which may be preferred by those looking for a smoother typing feel. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie offers a more substantial and tactile typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, which makes it shorter than the Cherry Nixie linear switch with a travel distance of 4mm. The Ice King Linear switch offers a slightly quicker response time compared to the Nixie due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers might prefer the Ice King for this reason. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press and deeper feel might opt for the Cherry Nixie switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of key press feel and responsiveness, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 its subdued sound, which offers a more subtle sound signature that is not completely silent but dampened compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switch is characterized by a thocky and low-pitched sound, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying thud when pressed. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also affected by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Ice King Linear switch offers a silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience, providing exceptionally smooth and effortless key presses with minimal resistance. The Cherry Nixie, on the other hand, is described as having a textured feel, which indicates noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer the subtle texture, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience.
Considering all available information, it is evident that the Durock Ice King Linear switch focuses on providing a silky smooth typing experience with full nylon construction and generous factory lube. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie switch offers a substantial heft and textured typing experience by incorporating updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update. While both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, the Ice King Linear switch emphasizes smoothness and ease of typing, while the Cherry Nixie switch combines tradition with modern innovation to deliver a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound and feel in their mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Cherry Nixie linear switches, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience with a medium bottom out force, then the Ice King Linear would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial and heavy switch with a textured typing feel, the Cherry Nixie would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing sound and feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
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