Durock Ice King Linear vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Green 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 Green offer distinct typing experiences for users to consider. The Ice King Linear boasts a reputation for its smooth typing experience, thanks to its full nylon construction and factory lube, providing a silky, frictionless feel. In contrast, the Outemu Green switch stands out as a clicky option with tactile feedback. While the Ice King Linear is described as subdued, creamy, and polished, the Green switch does not have any specific characteristics listed. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style; 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
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 Green, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. Both switches benefit from this classic housing material, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Ice King Linear uses nylon while the Outemu Green utilizes polycarbonate. The nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its bottom housing, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Green creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic compared to nylon, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. This contrast in top housing material results in a difference in sound aesthetics between the two switches, catering to different preferences based on sound pitch and quality.
It is important to note that the top housing material of a switch has more impact on the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Therefore, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate for the top housing will significantly influence the overall sound profile and typing experience of the switch. Both the Ice King Linear and the Outemu Green showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the sound characteristics of mechanical switches, offering users a choice between a softer, rounder sound profile with nylon or a crisper, sharper sound profile with polycarbonate.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, there are noticeable differences. The Ice King Linear has a lighter actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a medium resistance level. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch features a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Ice King Linear more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Outemu Green for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preference for typing feel and intensity.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Ice King Linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Green switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Durock Ice King switch. The 0.5 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing experience. Shorter travel distances are commonly preferred by gamers for faster response times, while longer travel distances provide a more satisfying keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer different travel distances, so it's essential to consider which option aligns best with your typing needs.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a subdued typing experience, producing a dampened sound when pressed. This is ideal for those who prefer a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Green clicky switch is unknown. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Ice King Linear switch is known for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience. These characteristics translate to an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimal resistance, making typing effortlessly fluid and enjoyable. On the contrary, the feel of the Outemu Green switch remains unspecified.
Considering the available information, the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch stands out for its smooth and polished typing experience with a subdued sound profile. It promises a typing experience that is both satisfying and enjoyable. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Green clicky switch are not explicitly described, based on the details provided, it is evident that the Ice King Linear switch offers qualities that prioritize smoothness and a quiet typing experience, unlike the potentially clicky nature of the Green switch. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for sound and feel during typing.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Green clicky switch, consider the typing experience you are looking for. If you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with a medium bottom out force, then the Ice King Linear would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are seeking a clicky switch with a tactile bump, the Outemu Green switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force. Choose wisely to enhance your overall typing experience with the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for you.
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