Durock Ice King Linear vs. Everglide Sakura Pink
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Everglide Sakura Pink both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Ice King Linear provides a silky smooth typing experience with its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, perfect for those who enjoy a frictionless and polished feel while typing. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switches are known for their super light 35g actuation force, making them ideal for delicate typists who prefer a buttery and easy-to-press switch. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Linear and the Everglide Sakura Pink both offer unique housing materials for their switches, with the Ice King Linear using nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the Sakura Pink utilizes polycarbonate for both. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, polycarbonate in the Sakura Pink switches produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. Both materials offer distinct sound profiles that can greatly impact the overall typing experience.
However, the choice of housing material does not only affect the sound profile but also the aesthetics of the switches. The Sakura Pink's polycarbonate housing provides a clear and transparent look, making it ideal for RGB lighting setups as the light can easily shine through the housing, creating a visually appealing experience. In contrast, the Ice King Linear's nylon housing may not offer the same translucent properties, but it does provide a classic and robust feel to the switches. While both materials offer different visual aesthetics, they both contribute to the overall typing experience by influencing the sound profile.
In terms of performance, the split between the top and bottom housings of a switch allows for a combination of qualities from each material. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. While each housing material brings its own unique characteristics to the table, users of both the Durock Ice King Linear and the Everglide Sakura Pink can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, with differences in sound profile and aesthetics depending on their preference.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, it is clear that the Sakura Pink is the lighter of the two switches. The Ice King Linear has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the Sakura Pink has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, placing it in the lighter category. For those who prefer a light and easy typing experience, the Sakura Pink would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial and tactile typing feel may lean towards the Ice King Linear despite its heavier weight. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Ice King Linear switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Sakura Pink switch. The difference may seem small, but it can impact the overall feel and response of the key press. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ice King Linear switch, while those who enjoy a more deliberate key press may lean towards the Sakura Pink switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
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 Everglide Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink for $3.89.
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 Ice King Linear switch offers a subdued typing experience, producing a dampened sound that is subtle and not overly loud. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switch is described as muted, providing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, with a delightful poppy quality. Both switches offer a more toned-down sound profile, but the Sakura Pink adds a playful touch with its bubble wrap-like sound.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience. The Ice King Linear is known for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing sensation with minimal resistance. Similarly, the Sakura Pink switch is described as buttery, creamy, easy-to-press, and frictionless, offering a seamless and uniform typing experience with low actuation force. Both switches prioritize smoothness and ease of typing, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing session for users.
In conclusion, while the Ice King Linear and Sakura Pink switches have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both excel in providing a silky smooth typing experience with minimal resistance and effortless key presses. Whether you prefer a subdued sound with the Ice King Linear or a playful pop with the Sakura Pink, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that will satisfy enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and actuation force.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switches, consider the following guidelines: If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a medium bottom out force and a subdued sound signature, opt for the Ice King Linear for a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a light bottom out force and a muted sound signature, choose the Sakura Pink for a smooth and effortless typing experience with a playful poppy sound. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for typing feel, sound, and actuation force. Both switches offer unique characteristics suited for different typing preferences, so make your decision based on what best suits your typing style and preferences.
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