Durock Ice King Linear vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Linear and the Durock Piano mechanical keyboard switches, both fall under the category of linear switches known for their smooth typing experience. The Ice King Linear is praised for its silky, frictionless feel and subdued, creamy sound signature, while the Piano is recognized for its bassy sound profile and silky, frictionless typing experience. Both switches offer a pleasurable typing experience, but the Ice King Linear boasts a full nylon construction and generous factory lube, while the Piano stands out with its proprietary material blend. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Linear and the Durock Piano both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Ice King Linear features a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Piano utilizes a proprietary POM blend top housing, which delivers a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. While both materials aim to enhance the typing experience by producing rich and immersive sound, they do so in slightly different ways.
In terms of bottom housings, the Ice King Linear and the Piano take different approaches. The Ice King Linear uses a nylon bottom housing, which complements the top housing by contributing to the switch's overall deeper and fuller sound profile. The Piano, on the other hand, utilizes a proprietary POM blend bottom housing, which also aims to enhance the switch's sound profile by offering a uniquely satisfying and deep sound. Both bottom housings play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switches, ensuring a consistent and enjoyable typing experience.
While the top and bottom housing materials for the Ice King Linear and the Piano may differ, the qualities they bring to the switches are equally important. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Despite these differences, both switches ultimately aim to provide a high-quality typing experience with their respective housing materials. Whether using nylon or a proprietary POM blend, users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound performance and tactile feel when typing on these switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch differ slightly, with the Ice King having a slightly lighter actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Piano which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Ice King requiring 62 grams and the Piano needing 63.5 grams. This makes the Ice King a lighter option overall, ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Piano offers a slightly heavier typing experience, providing a more substantial push feel for those who prefer it. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Durock Piano linear switch. The Ice King Linear switch would provide a slightly faster response time compared to the Piano linear switch due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers who prioritize quick reaction times may prefer the Ice King Linear switch, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Piano linear switch. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, but the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.
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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 is known for its subdued sound, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch offers a bassy sound profile with a deeper and richer tone, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Depending on personal preference and environmental factors such as keyboard and keycap choice, the sound experience can vary.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is described as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch also provides a smooth and frictionless typing feel, with an emphasis on a silky sensation during key presses. Both switches aim to enhance typing comfort and fluidity, catering to individuals who prioritize a seamless typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Linear and Piano linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ice King focuses on a subdued sound and a variety of smooth typing experiences, the Piano emphasizes a bassy sound profile and a silky typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique characteristics. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and Durock Piano linear switches, consider the factors that are most important to you. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom-out force and a switch with a more subdued sound signature, the Ice King Linear may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a switch with a deep and rich sound profile, the Piano linear switch might be more to your liking. Both switches offer a silky smooth typing experience, but the specific characteristics of each switch can help you determine which one will best suit your typing preferences and needs. Ultimately, the decision between the Ice King Linear and Piano linear switches will come down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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