Durock Ice King Linear vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) 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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) offer two distinct typing experiences. The Ice King Linear is renowned for its silky smooth feel, thanks to its full nylon construction and factory lube, making it a top choice for those who prioritize a frictionless and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White (V2) is favored for its medium tactile feel, providing a satisfying level of resistance without sacrificing quietness, making it ideal for office or shared living spaces. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater 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
42g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2), one key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Ice King Linear utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White (V2) employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This distinction in material choice highlights the different sound characteristics that can be achieved with these switches.
Another point of comparison between the two switches is the material used for the bottom housing. Both the Ice King Linear and the Silent Bluish White (V2) opt for nylon as the material for the bottom housing. This choice results in a similar deep and full sound profile for both switches, as nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound and contributes to a duller and rounder sound. Despite the similarity in bottom housing material, the overall sound and feel of the switches may still vary due to the different top housing materials used in each.
Overall, the selection of housing materials for switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While the Ice King Linear and the Silent Bluish White (V2) share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, the choice between nylon for the top housing in the Ice King Linear and polycarbonate in the Silent Bluish White (V2) results in contrasting sound profiles. The softer nature of nylon in the Ice King Linear creates a deeper sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate in the Silent Bluish White (V2) produces a sharper and more resonant sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will not only depend on personal preference but also on the desired sound characteristics for a specific keyboard setup.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch reveals a significant difference in weight. The Ice King Linear has a medium actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Bluish White (V2) is lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions. Those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Ice King Linear, while those who enjoy a lighter touch may opt for the Silent Bluish White (V2). Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, users will experience a similar travel distance. This ensures a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch is used. The travel distance of these switches plays a significant role in determining the overall feel and performance of a keyboard, making them both popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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, producing a dampened sound when pressed, making it quieter than most switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switch provides a muted sound, offering a softer and quieter typing experience, ideal for office or shared living spaces. Both switches are designed to minimize the usual noise associated with mechanical keyboards, providing a more pleasant typing environment.
When it comes to feel, the Ice King Linear switch is described as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch is characterized as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished, providing a gentle and uniform typing sensation with a comfortable level of resistance. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by offering smooth and refined key travel, catering to individuals who value a comfortable and effortless typing feel.
Overall, while the Ice King Linear switch focuses on providing a silky smooth typing experience with a more subdued sound, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switch offers a medium tactile feel with a quieter, more muted sound profile. Depending on personal preferences and the desired typing environment, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience with their unique qualities. Whether you choose the Ice King Linear for its smoothness or the Silent Bluish White (V2) for its tactile feedback and quietness, you can expect a high-quality typing experience from either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize smoothness and a frictionless feel, the Ice King Linear may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience with quieter operation, the Silent Bluish White (V2) switches would be more suitable. Additionally, if you work in an office or shared living space where noise levels are a concern, the Silent Bluish White (V2) switches are designed to be as quiet as possible. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your typing style and environment.
Mentioned in this article
