Durock Ice King Linear vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices to consider are the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Dustproof Purple. The Ice King Linear switch is well-loved for its smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and factory lubrication, earning it descriptors like 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple switch from Outemu doesn't boast a specific standout feature but is categorized as a clicky switch. If you're looking for a quieter and smoother typing experience, the Ice King Linear may be the way to go. 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
55g
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
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 Purple switches, it is evident that the Ice King Linear uses nylon for both its top and bottom housing, while the Dustproof Purple utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The nylon housing of the Ice King Linear provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Purple creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, attributed to its stiffer plastic composition. Despite these differences, both switches offer a unique sound profile based on their housing materials.
The Ice King Linear's nylon top and bottom housing contribute to a consistent sound profile throughout the typing experience, with a focus on a deeper and fuller sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing allows for a split in the qualities of each housing material. The bottom housing of the Dustproof Purple impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing plays a role in the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials provides a dynamic typing experience with varied sound profiles depending on the stage of key press.
Overall, while the Ice King Linear and the Dustproof Purple switches differ in their choice of housing materials, both offer unique sound profiles and tactile feedback to the user. The softer nylon housing of the Ice King Linear delivers a rounder and deeper sound, while the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Dustproof Purple results in a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct characteristics attributed to their housing materials. Whether it be the softer sound of nylon or the clearer sound of polycarbonate, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, we can see that the Ice King has a lighter actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Dustproof Purple's 55 grams. However, the Ice King has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Dustproof Purple has a heavier 65 grams bottom out force. Both switches fall within the medium range, but the Dustproof Purple is slightly heavier overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ice King may be the better choice, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Dustproof Purple. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a significant role in determining the typing experience, with lighter switches being ideal for longer typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more solid typing feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Dustproof Purple switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ice King Linear switch. The 0.5 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and typing experience. If you prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Ice King Linear switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust and substantial key press, the Dustproof Purple switch with its longer travel distance might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Purple 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 and dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch's sound qualities are unknown. It's important to consider that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's design and the keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Ice King Linear is praised for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished qualities, all of which contribute to an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, there is no information available about the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch. While the specific feel may vary from switch to switch, it's worth noting that both switches can provide similar results in terms of smoothness and ease of typing.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch offers a smooth and silky typing experience with a subdued sound profile, making it a popular choice for those seeking a pleasant tactile and auditory experience. On the other hand, information about the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is limited, but it's important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as keyboard setup when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, but the Ice King Linear stands out for its well-documented qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, consider your preferences in terms of bottom out force, typing experience, sound, and feel. If you prefer a smoother and more frictionless typing experience with a medium bottom out force, then the Ice King Linear would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and want a unique typing experience, then the Dustproof Purple may be the better option. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you prefer.
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