Durock Ice King Linear vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may find yourself considering the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches. The Ice King Linear is renowned for its smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, offering a 'silky', 'frictionless', 'subdued', 'creamy', and 'polished' feel. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue switch from Outemu doesn't have a specific standout feature but falls into the clicky switch category. While the Ice King Linear may appeal to those seeking a refined and quiet typing experience, the Dustproof Blue switch may be preferred by those who enjoy the audible feedback of a clicky switch. 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
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
The Durock Ice King Linear utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a switch that offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon helps absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing gives off a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing still contributes to a deeper and fuller sound.
Both the Ice King Linear and the Dustproof Blue switches showcase the use of nylon in their bottom housing, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. However, while the Ice King Linear uses nylon for both its top and bottom housing, the Dustproof Blue takes a different approach by incorporating polycarbonate for the top housing. This results in a switch that produces a more resonant and clear sound, perfect for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency. Despite the differences in top housing material, both switches ultimately provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound characteristics.
In terms of functionality, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience. While the Ice King Linear focuses on a more rounded and dull sound profile with its nylon top and bottom housing, the Dustproof Blue offers a crisper and higher-pitched sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom impacts the sound when pressing down on a key and when releasing it, giving users a variety of options to choose from based on their sound preferences and typing style. Ultimately, ensuring a balance between the housing materials in switches can make a significant difference in the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it can be observed that the Ice King Linear has a slightly lighter actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Dustproof Blue's 50 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Ice King Linear requires 62 grams, while the Dustproof Blue needs 65 grams, making it slightly heavier. Both switches fall into the medium range in terms of actuation force, but the Dustproof Blue leans towards being medium-heavy when it comes to bottom out force. Ultimately, the slight differences in force may result in a subtly lighter typing experience with the Ice King Linear and a slightly more substantial feel with the Dustproof Blue. Depending on personal preference, users may choose the switch that aligns with their desired typing experience, whether it be a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or a firmer push for a more pronounced typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, we can see that the Ice King Linear has a shorter distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Dustproof Blue's 4 mm. The difference may seem small, but it can have a significant impact on the typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Ice King Linear may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Blue may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper keystroke sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for.
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 Dustproof 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a subdued sound, producing a dampened sound when pressed, which is not completely silent but provides a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch's sound qualities are unknown. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Ice King Linear switch is praised for its silky and frictionless qualities, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. It also offers a creamy and polished typing sensation, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys with ease. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is unknown.
Considering the available information, it is clear that the Durock Ice King Linear switch excels in providing a smooth and refined typing experience with subdued sound qualities. While the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch may offer a different typing experience, without specific details it is difficult to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, with the Ice King Linear switch, users can expect a satisfying and smooth typing experience, making it a popular choice for those seeking a premium mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prioritize a smooth and frictionless typing experience, the Durock Ice King Linear would be the ideal choice for you. With its silky feel and subdued sound, it offers a refined and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Dustproof Blue would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your preference for the typing feel and sound. Consider your priorities and choose the switch that best aligns with your needs and preferences.
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