Durock Ice King Linear vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Purple 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 Purple offer two distinct typing experiences. The Ice King Linear is celebrated for its silky smooth feel, attributed to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. In contrast, the Outemu Purple switch lacks any specific standout feature but provides a tactile typing experience. While the Ice King Linear is described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Purple switch does not have any specific descriptors. Choosing between these switches may depend on whether you prefer a smooth and linear typing sensation or a tactile feedback while typing. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
The housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Purple switches are quite different in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Ice King Linear features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Purple switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic composition. This contrast in materials results in distinct typing experiences, with the Ice King Linear offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the Purple's more clear and resonant sound.
Both the Ice King Linear and the Outemu Purple switches have nylon bottom housings, which contribute to the deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of nylon materials. This shared bottom housing material means that the tactile feedback and bottom-out sound will be similar between the two switches. However, where they differ is in their top housings, with the Ice King Linear utilizing nylon for its top housing while the Purple switch opts for polycarbonate. This contrast in top housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the Ice King Linear offering a deeper and fuller sound while the Purple switch produces a sharper and crisper sound.
In summary, the choice between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Purple switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The Ice King Linear's nylon housing materials create a deeper and fuller sound, while the Purple switch's polycarbonate housing materials result in a sharper and crisper sound. The bottom housings of both switches share similar properties, but the top housings play a significant role in the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound or a more clear and resonant sound, both switches offer quality housing materials that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the Ice King Linear requires a slightly higher actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Purple's 50 grams. The bottom out force of the Ice King Linear is also higher at 62 grams, while the Purple's bottom out force is unavailable. The Ice King Linear provides a more medium resistance overall, with both actuation and bottom out forces falling within the same range. In contrast, the Outemu Purple's actuation force is slightly lighter, but without the information on the bottom out force, it is uncertain how it compares in terms of overall resistance. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference, with some preferring the lighter actuation force of the Purple for extended typing sessions, while others may favor the heavier resistance of the Ice King Linear for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Purple tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of response times, the Ice King Linear would be preferred by gamers for its quicker actuation due to a shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press and a deeper feel due to its longer travel distance. However, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, and you can expect similar results in terms of key press feel despite the difference in travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would come down to personal preference for typing feel and response time.
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 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 provides a subdued typing experience, emitting a dampened sound when pressed. This subtle sound signature adds to a quieter overall typing session compared to many other switches. On the other hand, Outemu Purple tactile switches do not have a specific sound description available, so it is unclear how they compare in terms of noise level. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
In the realm of feel, the Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience. These descriptors signify an exceptionally smooth and effortless keystroke, with minimal resistance and a fluid key travel. The combination of a full nylon construction and factory lubrication enhances the overall typing feel, making it a favorite for those seeking a buttery smooth input. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the specific feel of the Outemu Purple tactile switch, so it is challenging to draw a direct comparison in this aspect. However, based on the qualities of the Ice King Linear, users can expect a similarly smooth and polished typing experience with the Outemu Purple tactile switch.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch is praised for its silky typing feel and subdued sound profile, while the Outemu Purple tactile switch has less information available in these aspects. Both switches may offer comparable results in terms of typing smoothness and noise level, depending on individual preferences and setup configurations. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preferences in sound and feel, and experimenting with different switches can help users find the perfect match for their typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Outemu Purple switches, consider the typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a smooth and silky 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 are seeking a tactile switch with an unknown bottom out force and specific sound and feel preferences, the Outemu Purple might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire. So, weigh these factors carefully and choose the switch that best fits your needs and preferences.
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