Durock Ice King Linear vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Brown offer two distinct typing experiences. The Ice King Linear is praised for its silky smooth feel, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. It is described as 'silky', 'frictionless', 'subdued', 'creamy', and 'polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch doesn't have any standout features mentioned but is generally known for its tactile feedback. If you prefer a smooth and seamless typing experience, the Ice King Linear may be the switch for you. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Polycarbonate
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 Outemu Brown switches, one can see clear differences in the sound profiles they produce. The Ice King Linear's nylon top housing is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Brown's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffer plastic makeup. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly influence the typing experience for users, with the Ice King Linear offering a softer and rounder sound while the Brown provides a more clear and resonant sound.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Ice King Linear and the Outemu Brown switches utilize nylon material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This commonality in the bottom housing material means that both switches will offer a similar experience in terms of sound when bottoming out keys. However, where the switches differ is in their top housing material. The Ice King Linear's nylon top housing contributes to its deeper sound profile, while the Brown's polycarbonate top housing adds a sharper and clearer sound quality. This distinction in top housing material can have a noticeable impact on the overall sound experience of the switches.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Brown switches will largely come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The Ice King Linear offers a softer and rounder sound, thanks to its nylon top housing, while the Outemu Brown provides a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing. Both switches use nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent deep and full sound when bottoming out keys. Ultimately, users looking for a switch with a specific sound profile can choose between the two based on their preference for a softer or sharper sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, we find that the Ice King has a slightly lighter actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Brown's 53 grams. Both switches have a medium actuation force. However, the Ice King has a lighter bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Brown has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ice King may be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Brown tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can greatly impact the typing or gaming experience for users. Those who prefer a swift and responsive keystroke may opt for the Ice King Linear due to its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker key presses. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a deeper actuation and more tactile feedback may lean towards the Outemu Brown switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique benefits, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when selecting between the two.
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 Outemu Brown comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to sound, the Ice King Linear switch offers a subdued typing experience, producing a dampened sound when pressed. This can create a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches, providing a quieter typing environment. On the other hand, information regarding the sound profile of the Outemu Brown tactile switch is not available. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Linear switch is praised for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished properties, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. These switches are designed to minimize resistance and provide a fluid key press, allowing for a comfortable and satisfying typing feel. Conversely, information about the tactile feel of the Outemu Brown switch is not provided.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Linear switch stands out for its smooth and quiet typing experience due to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. While the Outemu Brown switch may offer a different typing experience, the lack of available information makes it difficult to directly compare the two. However, with both switches focusing on enhancing typing comfort, users can expect a similar level of satisfaction in terms of feel and sound if choosing either option based on their preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Brown switches, consider the typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a silky smooth typing experience with a medium bottom out force and subdued sound, then the Ice King Linear would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and tactile feedback without a specific sound or feel preference, then the Outemu Brown switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are aiming for.
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