Durock Ice King Linear vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Linear and the SP-Star RedBlue both offer unique features to consider. The Ice King Linear is praised for its silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and factory lube, making it fall under categories like 'Silky' and 'Frictionless'. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switches are known for providing a medium-light typing feel with a relatively low-pitched sound profile, falling under categories like 'Neutral' and 'Thocky'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
57g
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
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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 utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, providing a deep and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the material. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue uses polycarbonate for both top and bottom housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. While both switches provide unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound characteristics.
The aesthetics of the two switches also differ based on their housing materials. The Ice King Linear's nylon housing provides a more opaque appearance, while the RedBlue's polycarbonate housing offers a translucent look that is especially useful for showcasing RGB lighting effects. Clear housings are typically made of polycarbonate, making the RedBlue a great choice for those looking to enhance their keyboard with vibrant lighting. However, the Ice King Linear's solid nylon housing may appeal to those who prefer a more classic and understated design without the need for RGB customization.
In terms of performance, the split between top and bottom housing materials in a switch can impact the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material will have a greater effect on the sound when releasing a key. Whether using the Ice King Linear with its nylon housing or the RedBlue with its polycarbonate housing, users can expect a unique typing experience based on the distinct characteristics of each material.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force compared to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch. The Ice King Linear requires 52 grams of force to actuate and 62 grams to bottom out, while the RedBlue has a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams, with an unknown actuation force. This means that the Ice King Linear switch will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the RedBlue switch will offer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range of force, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience, with the main difference being the perceived weight of the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, making it shorter than the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch which has a travel distance of 4mm. The shorter travel distance of the Ice King Linear may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the RedBlue switch might provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper actuation feel. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on individual preference, with the Ice King Linear offering a slightly shorter travel distance for a quicker response, while the RedBlue switch provides a longer travel distance for a more deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the user's personal preference for typing or gaming.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 is known for producing a subdued sound, offering a dampened and subtle sound signature when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch has a low-pitched sound profile with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, along with a thocky characteristic that produces a deep and satisfying sound. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Ice King being more subdued and the RedBlue having a deeper and more bass-heavy tone.
In terms of feel, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is praised for its silky and frictionless typing experience, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless key press. Described as creamy and polished, this switch offers a buttery and refined typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch is noted for its mild and polished feel, offering a gentler typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with their unique qualities, appealing to users who prefer different levels of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Linear and SP-Star RedBlue switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ice King provides a subdued sound profile and a silky typing experience, while the RedBlue offers a low-pitched sound with a mild and polished feel. Whether you prefer a more subtle and smooth typing experience with the Ice King or a deeper and bass-heavy sound with the RedBlue, both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience based on your personal preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering whether to choose the Durock Ice King Linear or the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you are someone who values a medium typing force and is looking for a switch with a silky smooth typing experience, the Ice King Linear may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter typing force and are seeking a switch with a low-pitched sound profile and polished feel, the RedBlue may be more suited to your liking. Remember to consider factors such as typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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