Durock Ice King Linear vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Linear and the Kailh Sage mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that they offer unique typing experiences catered to different preferences. The Ice King Linear is lauded for its silky smooth feel, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, providing a frictionless and subdued typing experience. In contrast, the Kailh Sage offers a distinct clicky feel with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness, giving it an invigorating and crunchy typing experience. While the Ice King Linear may appeal to those seeking a polished and creamy typing experience, the Sage is ideal for individuals who enjoy a sharp and clicky feel while typing. 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 Sage both use nylon 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, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear uses nylon for its top housing, while the Sage utilizes polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Sage creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that will be used with RGB lighting.
One key difference between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Kailh Sage is the material used for their top housing. While the Ice King Linear features a nylon top housing, the Sage boasts a polycarbonate top housing. This contrast results in different sound profiles when typing on the switches. The nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear produces a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Sage creates a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the Sage's clear housing allows for the transmission of RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the typing experience.
In terms of overall sound and feel, the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Kailh Sage play a significant role. The division of housing materials between the top and bottom affects different aspects of typing on the switches. The qualities of the bottom housing, in this case both nylon, have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed. Conversely, the qualities of the top housing, nylon for the Ice King Linear and polycarbonate for the Sage, influence the sound when keys are released. These distinctions highlight how the choice of housing materials can affect the overall typing experience on mechanical switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The Ice King Linear switch has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, placing it in the medium range. On the other hand, the Sage clicky switch does not specify an actuation force but has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy. This means that the Sage switch requires a heavier force to fully press the key compared to the Ice King Linear switch. The lighter actuation force of the Ice King Linear may be preferred by those who want a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier bottom out force of the Sage switch may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are often preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users. Those who prefer a quicker and more immediate keypress may lean towards the Ice King Linear, while those who prefer a bit more depth and feedback in their keystrokes may opt for the Kailh Sage. Ultimately, both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to traditional switches, providing a different typing experience for users to choose from.
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 Sage 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
The Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a subdued sound profile, providing a more subtle and dampened typing experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is described as crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. When it comes to feel, the Ice King Linear switch is known for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience, offering smooth and effortless keystrokes with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Kailh Sage clicky switch provides an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, creating a pronounced and reactive typing sensation. Overall, those who prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience may lean towards the Ice King Linear switch, while those who enjoy a tactile and crisp feedback may opt for the Kailh Sage clicky switch. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycap choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Kailh Sage switches, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a smooth and silky typing feel with a medium bottom out force, the Ice King Linear may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a distinct clicky feedback with a heavier bottom out force, the Sage switches could be more to your liking. Your decision should ultimately be based on whether you prefer a subdued and frictionless typing experience or a crunchy and sharp tactile feedback. Make your choice based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing needs.
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