Durock Ice King Linear vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) mechanical keyboard switches, you'll find that both options offer a smooth and quiet typing experience. The Ice King Linear is praised for its silky and frictionless feel, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, making it a perfect choice for those who prioritize smoothness and subtlety in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch is known for its extremely quiet sound profile and pillowy feel, offering a low-pitched and buttery typing experience that is ideal for those seeking a more muted and feathery key press. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Linear and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) both offer unique qualities in their housing materials. The Ice King Linear features a nylon top and bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2) utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the Ice King Linear's nylon housing creates a duller and rounder sound, the polycarbonate housing of the Silent Frozen (V2) offers a more clear and resonant sound.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both switches deliver distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The nylon housing of the Ice King Linear emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound, creating a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate housing of the Silent Frozen (V2) produces a sharper and crisper sound, adding a different dimension to the typing experience. These contrasting qualities make each switch suitable for users looking for specific sound characteristics in their mechanical keyboards.
In terms of construction, the different materials used in the top and bottom housing impact the typing experience in various ways. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect a nuanced sound experience with switches like the Ice King Linear, where the qualities of the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. Similarly, the Silent Frozen (V2) ensures a consistent sound profile with its polycarbonate top and bottom housing, providing a cohesive typing experience for users seeking a specific auditory feedback.
Weight
When it comes to the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, there is a clear difference in the weight of the two. The Ice King Linear has a medium actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, offering a somewhat heavier typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, providing a smoother and lighter typing feel. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Ice King Linear, while those who enjoy a lighter touch may opt for the Silent Frozen (V2). Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch is identical, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. With both switches offering the same travel distance, users can enjoy a similar feel and typing performance regardless of which one they choose.
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 Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.55.
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 that is not completely silent but more subtle compared to most switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch is characterized by a thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying thud or knock when the key is pressed and released. Additionally, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch offers a muted sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, both the Ice King Linear and Silent Frozen (V2) switches offer a creamy and polished typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation while typing. The Ice King Linear switch is described as silky and frictionless, offering exceptional smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Similarly, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch is also described as buttery and polished, providing a seamless and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Moreover, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch offers a feathery and subtle feel, being exceptionally light to press and suitable for extended typing sessions in shared spaces.
In conclusion, both the Durock Ice King Linear and TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches offer smooth and quiet typing experiences with a focus on providing a creamy and polished feel. While the Ice King Linear switch emphasizes a subdued sound profile and a silky typing experience, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch stands out for its thocky, low-pitched sound and feathery, subtle feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, but rest assured that both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switches, consider the differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a subdued sound profile for a smooth typing experience, the Ice King Linear may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force, a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, and a creamy and feathery typing feel, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound characteristics.
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