Durock Ice King Linear vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Akko Penguin mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Ice King Linear offers a silky smooth typing experience with its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, making it a popular choice for those who prioritize a frictionless and creamy feel while typing. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switches excel in providing a silent tactile experience, ideal for office environments where noise reduction is essential. With a rounded tactile bump and medium weight, the Penguins strike a balance between responsiveness and comfort, perfect for long typing sessions without causing fatigue. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Durock Ice King Linear and the Akko Penguin utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing material, creating a similar typing experience for users. The use of nylon in both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the relatively softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, producing a duller and rounder sound. This commonality between the two switches ensures that users can enjoy a consistent sound and feel while typing.
Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their housing material, there may be slight differences in the overall typing experience due to variations in design and construction. For example, the thickness or shape of the housing components in each switch could impact the sound and feel when typing. Additionally, the overall build quality of the switches may differ, leading to variations in durability and performance over time. These subtle differences can influence the overall satisfaction and preference of users when choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Akko Penguin.
In conclusion, while both the Durock Ice King Linear and the Akko Penguin share nylon as their housing material, there may still be nuanced differences in the typing experience between the two switches. Factors such as design, construction, and overall build quality can influence how each switch performs and feels during use. Ultimately, users may prefer one switch over the other based on these subtle differences and personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is evident that the Ice King Linear is the heavier option with an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium force category, providing a balance between ease of typing and a substantial tactile feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Akko Penguin more appealing for extended typing sessions, while individuals seeking a stronger push feel may lean towards the Ice King Linear for a more robust typing experience. Despite the difference in force levels, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces for those who prefer medium-weight switches.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the more common 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Penguin switch for faster response times, while others may find the Ice King Linear switch with the slightly longer travel distance to provide a more satisfying depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing 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 Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
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 that is not completely silent but more subtle compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is described as having a muted sound profile, making it softer and quieter than regular mechanical switches. Both switches aim to minimize noise, with the Ice King being more subdued and the Penguin being more muted. Depending on your keyboard setup and keycaps, you can achieve a quieter typing experience with either switch.
Moving on to feel, the Ice King Linear switch provides a silky and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth sensation when pressing and releasing keys. It is also described as creamy and polished, enhancing the overall typing feel. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is also polished, providing smooth and refined key travel. Additionally, it is considered mild and feathery, requiring little finger exertion and reducing fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Ice King being more focused on smoothness and the Penguin providing a gentle feel.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and Akko Penguin tactile switch offer different yet comparable qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ice King provides a more subdued sound with a silky and frictionless typing feel, while the Penguin offers a muted sound and a mild, feathery typing experience. Both switches are factory lubed and polished for smooth key travel. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, you can achieve similar results with either switch, ensuring a satisfying and quiet typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear switches and the Akko Penguin tactile switches, you should consider your typing preferences and environment. If you are looking for a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a subdued sound profile, the Ice King Linear switches would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet tactile feedback with a polished feel and a gentle resistance, the Akko Penguin switches are the way to go. Additionally, if you need a switch that is versatile for both work and play, the Akko Penguins provide a balanced experience suitable for most situations. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what typing experience and sound profile you prefer, as both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
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