Durock Ice King Linear vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Dustproof Brown mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that they offer different experiences to users. The Ice King Linear is renowned for its silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. It falls under categories such as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown switch does not have a standout feature mentioned, but is typically categorized as a tactile switch. When considering which switch to choose, one may prefer the Ice King Linear for its smooth and polished feel, while others may lean towards the Dustproof Brown for its 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing material. This choice of material allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound. This results in a more satisfying typing experience for users of both switches. However, because they both use the same material for the bottom housing, there may not be a significant difference in sound or feel between the two switches in this aspect.
On the other hand, the top housing materials of the Ice King Linear and the Dustproof Brown switches differ, with the Ice King Linear featuring a nylon top housing and the Dustproof Brown featuring a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Brown creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This contrast in materials results in a distinct difference in sound output between the two switches, catering to different preferences for sound profiles among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Brown switch offers a unique advantage due to its translucency, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting setups. This allows for a more visually appealing experience for users who enjoy customizing the look of their keyboards. While the Ice King Linear may not offer the same level of customization in terms of lighting due to its nylon top housing, it still provides a solid typing experience with its deep and full sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force at 52 grams compared to the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch at 45 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Ice King requires 62 grams while the Dustproof Brown needs 65 grams. This makes the Ice King a lighter option for typing, suitable for longer sessions, while the Dustproof Brown offers a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches fall under the medium to medium-heavy category, providing a good balance between actuation force and bottom out force. Overall, users looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Durock Ice King Linear switch, while those seeking a heavier touch may lean towards the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch for a more tactile response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Ice King Linear has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dustproof Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Ice King Linear's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking faster response times, such as gamers, while the Dustproof Brown's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 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 means it is not completely silent, but instead provides a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Linear switch is praised for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished properties. These characteristics contribute to an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch is unknown, making it challenging to evaluate how it compares to the Ice King Linear in terms of typing experience.
Overall, if you are looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Ice King Linear switch would be a suitable choice based on its subjective qualities in sound and feel. However, if you prefer a tactile switch and are willing to sacrifice information on sound and feel for the Outemu Dustproof Brown, keep in mind that individual preferences play a significant role in determining the best switch for each user's typing needs. Ultimately, trying out both switches personally would provide the most accurate comparison in finding the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a silky smooth typing experience with a medium bottom out force, then the Ice King Linear may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with dustproof protection, the Outemu Dustproof Browns could be the ideal option. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to further guide your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that best suits your needs.
Mentioned in this article
