Durock Ice King Linear vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may be torn between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Dustproof Green. The Ice King Linear offers a silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, making it ideal for those who prefer a frictionless and subdued typing feel. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green is a clicky switch that is known for its durability and reliability. While it may not have specific characteristics highlighted like the Ice King Linear, it is a popular choice for those who enjoy the tactile 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
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Dustproof Green, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This shared choice of material means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience, with a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb sound and create a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that users can expect comparable results in terms of sound and feel when typing on these switches.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their top housing materials. While the Ice King Linear features a nylon top housing, the Dustproof Green utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. This contrast in materials leads to a distinct difference in sound profiles, with the Ice King Linear producing a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon, while the Dustproof Green offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound thanks to the stiffer polycarbonate material. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing touch that the Ice King Linear's opaque nylon top housing cannot replicate.
In terms of functionality, the choice of top and bottom housing materials for a switch can significantly impact the overall typing experience. The qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom housings, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a more prominent role in the sound produced when a key is released. As such, the combination of nylon bottom housing and either nylon or polycarbonate top housing in switches like the Ice King Linear and Dustproof Green ensures a balance of sound profiles that cater to different preferences, offering users a variety of options to suit their typing style and preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it is evident that the Dustproof Green switch is heavier in both aspects. The Ice King Linear has a medium actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, whereas the Dustproof Green has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Ice King Linear may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Dustproof Green provides a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on the preference of the user.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch. The Ice King Linear switch will provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green clicky switch offers a slightly deeper key press with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming 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 Dustproof Green 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
The Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a subdued sound profile, providing a dampened and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch are unknown. When it comes to feel, the Ice King Linear switch is praised for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished properties, delivering a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. However, the tactile feel of the Dustproof Green clicky switch remains unspecified. Keep in mind that the typing experience also depends on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a switch with a smooth and quiet operation, the Ice King Linear could be the ideal choice based on the provided information. If you are leaning towards a clicky switch with a distinct tactile feedback, the Dustproof Green could potentially offer a different typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches, you should consider the typing experience you are looking for. If you prioritize a silky smooth feel and a subdued sound while typing, the Ice King Linear would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a clicky tactile feedback, the Dustproof Green switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire when selecting between these two switches. Happy typing!
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