Durock Ice King Linear vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may find yourself torn between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Cream Yellow. The Ice King Linear is a linear switch that offers a silky smooth typing experience 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 Cream Yellow is a tactile switch with no specific standout feature mentioned. While the Ice King Linear may appeal to those looking for a seamless typing experience, the Cream Yellow might be the choice for those seeking a tactile feedback. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Cream Yellow, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This means that typing on switches that use nylon will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique typing experience that is characterized by a softer feel and quieter sound compared to switches made from harder plastics.
Despite both switches sharing the same housing material, it is essential to note that the qualities of each housing material are distributed differently in the switch. The bottom housing of the switch will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on a key, while the top housing will influence the sound when you release a key. This distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings contributes to the overall typing experience of each switch, creating a unique sound profile and tactile feel that distinguishes them from one another.
In terms of construction, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Cream Yellow both offer a reliable and durable housing material in nylon. This allows for a consistent typing experience that is characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the housing materials may be the same, the overall typing experience may vary slightly due to the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings. Ultimately, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience that is sure to meet the needs of keyboard enthusiasts seeking a smoother and quieter typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch reveals some key differences. The Ice King Linear has a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Cream Yellow's 45 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 60-62 grams, providing a medium typing experience overall. The Ice King Linear may be preferred by those who like a bit more resistance when activating keys, while the Cream Yellow offers a lighter actuation force for quicker keystrokes. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the choice between lighter or heavier actuation forces depending on personal preference.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are increasingly popular for their faster response times, particularly among gamers. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Cream Yellow switch to feel too abrupt, while others may appreciate the slightly greater depth of the Ice King Linear switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 Yellow 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
In terms of sound, the Ice King Linear switch offers a subdued sound when pressed, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Cream Yellow switch is unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch also depends on various factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to the typing feel, the Ice King Linear switch is revered for its silky and frictionless typing experience, offering minimal resistance and smooth key presses. Additionally, the switch is described as creamy and polished, providing a buttery sensation and refined finish for an effortless typing feel. Conversely, the typing feel of the Cream Yellow switch is unknown. If the Cream Yellow switch is similar in construction and design to the Ice King Linear switch, users can expect a similarly smooth and comfortable typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Linear switch stands out for its smooth and silky typing experience, with a subdued sound profile creating a pleasant typing environment. While the tactile qualities of the Outemu Cream Yellow switch are not clearly defined in the provided information, if it shares similarities in construction and lubing process with the Ice King Linear, users can anticipate a comparable level of typing satisfaction. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a silky smooth and frictionless typing feel with a subtle sound signature, then the Ice King Linear may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a creamy and polished typing experience, the Cream Yellow could be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you prioritize typing feel and sound in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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