Durock Ice King Linear vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Durock Ice King Linear and the Kailh Plum. The Ice King Linear offers a smooth and frictionless typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and factory lube, earning it descriptors like "silky" and "creamy." On the other hand, the Plum switch provides a unique tactile sensation without a pronounced bump, making it stand out from other tactile switches. Its weightiness and neutral sound profile are also noteworthy features. While the Ice King Linear may appeal to those seeking a polished typing experience, the Plum switch caters to individuals looking for a tactile switch with a twist. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
The Durock Ice King Linear and the Kailh Plum switches both feature nylon as the material for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear utilizes nylon for its top housing, while the Plum switch uses polycarbonate. This key difference results in the Ice King Linear producing a softer sound profile, while the Plum switch creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Kailh Plum switch allows for translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear's nylon top housing does not offer the same level of clarity for RGB lighting but still provides a unique sound profile. Despite their differences in top housing material, both switches maintain the classic and popular nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent and familiar typing experience. This split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches highlights how each component contributes differently to the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Kailh Plum switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While the Ice King Linear with its nylon top housing delivers a softer and fuller sound, the Plum switch with its polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the Plum switch allows for a more visually appealing experience with RGB lighting effects. Regardless, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, we can see some differences. The Ice King Linear has a lighter actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Plum's unknown actuation force. However, the Plum has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Ice King Linear has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Plum switch requires a stronger push to activate the keystroke and to bottom out completely. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as some may prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer a heavier feel for a more substantial typing experience. In this case, those looking for a lighter touch may lean towards the Ice King Linear, while those seeking a heavier feel may opt for the Plum tactile switch.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for users looking for faster response times, such as gamers. The Ice King Linear offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those seeking a more responsive feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a bit more depth and feedback when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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 profile, providing a dampened sound when pressed. This allows for a more subtle and quieter typing experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch features a neutral sound profile, offering a moderate level of sound that is suitable for various environments and preferences. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is described as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. These qualities enhance the overall smoothness and reduce resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as mild and stepped, providing a more gentle and approachable typing experience. The stepped characteristic of the Plum switch adds a unique feel with two stages during the keystroke, differentiating it from the typical tactile switches.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Linear switch excels in providing a silky smooth typing experience with a subdued sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a unique tactile experience with a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Depending on your preference for smoothness, tactility, and sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Kailh Plum switches, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience with a medium bottom out force, along with a subdued sound profile and a frictionless, polished feel, then the Ice King Linear linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a unique, medium tactility and a neutral sound profile, opting for the Kailh Plum tactile switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
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