Durock Ice King Linear vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often comes down to the Durock Ice King Linear and the KTT Orange. The Ice King Linear offers a silky smooth typing experience with its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. Categorized as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', this switch is ideal for those who value a refined and smooth keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch boasts a bouncy type feel with its 22mm long spring and features a polycarbonate milky top housing, long pole POM stem, and vivid orange nylon bottom housing. Categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Frictionless', and 'Low-pitched', this switch offers a unique typing experience with a satisfying bounce. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the KTT Orange, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Ice King Linear features a nylon top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Orange switch incorporates a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer plastic composition. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, with the Ice King Linear providing a duller and rounder sound while the KTT Orange delivers a more clear and resonant sound.
One key difference between the two switches lies in their aesthetic appeal, with the Orange switch's polycarbonate housing being transparent and ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Ice King Linear's nylon housing lacks translucency, focusing more on creating a specific sound experience for typists. Despite their aesthetic disparities, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials. Typing on the Ice King Linear will elicit a deeper sound profile, while the KTT Orange will produce a sharper and crisper typing sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may depend on personal preferences regarding sound profile, aesthetics, and the desired typing experience.
Overall, while the Ice King Linear and the KTT Orange utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience for users. The split qualities of the housing materials impact various aspects of typing feedback, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the softer and fuller sound of nylon in the Ice King Linear or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the KTT Orange, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to individual typing preferences and styles.
Weight
In comparing the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, it is evident that the Orange switch is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Ice King Linear switch. The Ice King Linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams and bottom out force of 62 grams, making it more suitable for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams and bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a smoother and lighter typing experience. Both switches fall within the medium range of force, offering a balance between lighter and heavier options for users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch is the same, both measuring at 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 3.5 mm. The similarity in travel distance ensures that both switches will provide a similar typing experience and feel when using them. This makes them ideal choices for those who prefer a specific travel distance and want a consistent typing experience across different 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 Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 sound, creating a dampened typing experience that is not completely silent but provides a more subtle sound profile compared to other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch produces a low-pitched sound, with a bass-heavy and mellow tone that enhances the overall typing experience. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the sound produced by these switches.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is described as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. Conversely, the KTT Orange switch provides a bouncy and frictionless feel, giving a spring-like feedback sensation with rebound when pressed. Both switches aim to provide a slick, smooth typing experience, prioritizing comfort and ease of use for the user.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, both the Durock Ice King Linear and KTT Orange linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experience. While the Ice King Linear switch focuses on a more subdued sound profile and a silky, polished feel, the KTT Orange switch emphasizes a low-pitched sound and a bouncy, frictionless feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. However, both switches are factory-lubed to provide a refined, fluid key travel experience that minimizes friction and maximizes smoothness, ensuring a high-quality typing experience regardless of the choice.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and KTT Orange linear switches, consider the following guidelines: If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a typing experience that is described as silky, frictionless, creamy, or polished, then the Ice King Linear may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy typing feel with low-pitched sound profile, then the KTT Orange linear switch could be more to your liking. Both switches offer excellent factory lubing and provide a smooth typing experience, so ultimately it comes down to personal preference in terms of force and typing feel. Make sure to test out both switches if possible to see which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
Mentioned in this article
