Durock Ice King Linear vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Cream Blue offer unique typing experiences. The Ice King Linear is praised for its silky smooth feel, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, making it a popular choice for those seeking a frictionless and subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch from Outemu provides a clicky typing experience, offering tactile feedback and audible sound with each key press. While the Ice King Linear is known for its creamy and polished feel, the Cream Blue switch lacks specific descriptors. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Cream Blue, it is evident that both switches use nylon top and bottom housings. This commonality means that typing on either switch will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches will create a duller and rounder sound, providing a satisfying typing experience for users who enjoy a more muted sound profile.
However, it is essential to note that while both switches use the same housing material, the design and construction of the housings may vary between the Ice King Linear and the Cream Blue. These differences can affect the overall typing experience, such as the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, even though both switches share the same housing material, the nuances in their design and construction can lead to variations in typing feel and sound that may appeal to different preferences.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Cream Blue may be the same, but the overall typing experience can be influenced by design nuances and construction differences. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the use of nylon housings, providing users with a satisfying typing experience characterized by a duller and rounder sound. Whether one prefers the Ice King Linear or the Cream Blue will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and design features unique to each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation force. The Ice King Linear has an actuation force of 52 grams, slightly higher than the Cream Blue's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Blue requires 65 grams, making it heavier than the Ice King Linear's 62 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Ice King Linear, as it has a slightly lighter actuation force. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Cream Blue due to its heavier bottom out force. Overall, both switches provide a satisfactory typing experience, but the Cream Blue offers a slightly heavier touch compared to the Ice King Linear.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Cream Blue being closer to the standard 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Ice King Linear for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more robust and tactile feel may opt for the Cream Blue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance 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 Outemu Cream Blue 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 Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a subdued typing experience, producing a dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch sound quality is unavailable. Both switches may provide different sound profiles based on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Linear switch is described as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, details on the feel of the Outemu Cream Blue switch are not provided. If the Cream Blue switch offers similar qualities to the Ice King Linear based on its "creamy" name, users can expect a smooth and buttery typing experience with a silky sensation.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is known for its smooth and lubricated typing experience with a subdued sound profile. In contrast, information about the subjective qualities of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is limited. If looking for a switch that offers a silky smooth typing experience with a subdued sound, the Ice King Linear may be the preferred choice based on available information. However, for those seeking a clicky switch experience, the Cream Blue switch may also provide satisfactory results if it shares similar qualities to the Ice King Linear's creamy feel. Ultimately, the best switch choice would depend on personal preferences for sound and feel in mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Cream Blue switches, you should opt for the Ice King Linear if you are looking for a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a medium bottom out force. The Ice King Linear's full nylon construction and factory lube provide a silky feel and subdued sound, perfect for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Outemu Cream Blue might be the better choice for you. The Cream Blue switches offer a unique clicky feedback without as much information provided on sound and feel in the description. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for typing feel and sound, so evaluate these factors carefully before making a decision.
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