Durock Ice King Linear vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offer distinctly different typing experiences. The Ice King Linear is praised for its silky smooth feel, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. This switch is categorized as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is known for its maximum tactility, providing a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack while typing. It falls under categories such as 'Resonant', 'Neutral', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', and 'Invigorating'. Both switches have their unique selling points - the Ice King Linear for its smoothness and the POM T1 (Sunflower) for its tactile feel. 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
67g
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
Proprietary
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 POM T1 (Sunflower) both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Ice King Linear's nylon top and bottom housings are designed to create a deeper and fuller sound when typing, thanks to nylon's softer plastic composition which absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the POM top and bottom housings of the POM T1 (Sunflower) provide a deep and muted sound profile that is different from the Ice King Linear's nylon housing. While both switches aim to offer a pleasing typing experience, the choice between nylon and POM housings ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Ice King Linear and the POM T1 (Sunflower) switches exhibit qualities that cater to users looking for a unique typing experience. The nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear contributes to a rounder sound profile, while the POM top housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) produces a deeper sound that is relatively more muted. In terms of bottom housings, both switches offer a similar typing experience with their respective materials affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether you prefer the softer and fuller sound of nylon or the deep and unique sound of POM, both switches provide an immersive typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
When it comes to choosing between the Ice King Linear and the POM T1 (Sunflower), the differences in their housing materials play a key role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches. While the Ice King Linear's nylon housing creates a duller and rounder sound profile, the POM T1 (Sunflower)'s POM housing offers a deeper and more muted sound. The split between the top and bottom housings allows each switch to excel in different aspects of typing, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing influencing the sound when a key is released. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfactory typing experience from both switches, with the choice between nylon and POM housings being a matter of personal preference in sound.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Ice King Linear has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the POM T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range of force. In terms of weight, the Ice King Linear may be preferred by those who enjoy a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the POM T1 may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch. In terms of responsiveness, the Ice King Linear may provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) may offer a more satisfying keystroke experience for those who prefer a deeper travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and responsiveness.
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 POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) 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 offers a subdued sound profile, producing a dampened sound when pressed, which provides a more subtle auditory experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is described as resonant, with a higher-pitched and sharp sound profile, creating an immersive auditory experience while typing. The POM T1 also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. Remember that sound perception can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Ice King Linear switch is praised for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished qualities, offering an exceptionally smooth and fluid typing experience with minimal resistance. Conversely, the Durock POM T1 switch is known for its sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating tactile feedback, providing a strong and distinct tactile bump with each keypress, creating a lively and responsive typing sensation. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Linear switch provides a smooth and subdued typing experience with minimal resistance, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offers a sharp and resonant tactile feedback for a punchy typing sensation. Choosing between the two switches would depend on whether you prefer a linear switch with a more subtle sound and smooth feel or a tactile switch with a strong tactile bump and resonant sound. Remember that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the ideal switch for your typing needs, so consider experimenting with different switches to find the perfect match for your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches, consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience with minimal sound and friction, the Ice King Linear may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek maximum tactility, sharp feedback, and a more resonant sound profile, the POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is likely the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what aspects of typing experience matter most to you, whether it be smoothness, tactility, sound, or a combination of these factors. Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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