Durock Ice King Linear vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Gold offer distinct typing experiences. The Ice King Linear is praised for its smoothness and luxurious feel, thanks to its full nylon construction and factory lube. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold, a clicky switch, is known for its tactile feedback and audible click sound. While the Ice King Linear provides a more subdued and creamy typing experience, the Gold switch offers a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. 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
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 Gold, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deep and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition which absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with nylon bottom housings. Both switches share this characteristic in their bottom housings, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound.
However, where the switches differ is in their top housing materials. The Ice King Linear features a nylon top housing, while the Outemu Gold utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic compared to nylon, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in housing creates a more clear and resonant sound profile compared to the duller sound produced by nylon. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Gold allows for RGB lighting to shine through due to its translucency, adding an aesthetic element to the switch that the Ice King Linear lacks.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Gold will depend on the specific sound profile and aesthetic preferences of the user. While both switches share the benefits of using nylon bottom housings for deeper and fuller sound profiles, the difference in top housing materials sets them apart in terms of the sharpness and crispness of the sound produced. The Ice King Linear's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, while the Outemu Gold's polycarbonate top housing offers a more clear and resonant sound with the added bonus of RGB lighting capabilities.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is evident that the Ice King Linear has a slightly higher actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Gold's 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Ice King Linear also requires a bit more pressure at 62 grams as opposed to the Gold's 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range in terms of force required. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Gold would be the better choice, as it has a lighter actuation force. On the other hand, those who enjoy a slightly heavier typing feel may prefer the Durock Ice King Linear. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and desired force requirements.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, which is shorter than the 4mm travel distance of the Outemu Gold clicky switch. This means that the Ice King Linear switch will require less distance for actuation compared to the Gold switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Ice King Linear due to its shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Outemu Gold switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and 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 Gold 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 when pressed, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch's sound quality is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Ice King Linear switch is praised for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience. These descriptors indicate that the switch offers an exceptionally smooth, effortless, buttery, and refined typing feel, respectively. This results in reduced resistance, smooth key travel, and a luxurious sensation when typing. On the contrary, the feel of the Outemu Gold clicky switch is not described in the provided information.
Overall, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a silky smooth typing experience with a subdued sound profile, the Durock Ice King Linear switch would be an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a clicky switch with a distinct sound and unknown feel, the Outemu Gold switch might be worth considering. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities, but based on the available information, you can expect a superior tactile and auditory experience with the Ice King Linear switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience with a medium bottom out force, then the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch would be a great choice for you. Its nylon construction and factory lube provide a silky and frictionless feel that enhances your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium bottom out force, the Outemu Gold clicky switch might be more suitable for you. While the Ice King Linear offers a subdued sound and a polished feel, the Gold switch does not have specific sound or feel descriptions available. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and switch type.
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