Durock Ice King Linear vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are excited to introduce two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Dareu Sky POM. The Ice King Linear offers a silky smooth typing experience with its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, providing a feeling of smoothness and refinement. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch stands out for its premium quality made entirely from POM material, offering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force, characterized by a buttery and low-pitched feel. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, making them both great options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Dareu Sky POM both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Ice King Linear utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the material absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Sky POM features a POM top housing, creating a unique and pleasing sound profile that leans towards the deeper side with a more muted tone. While both materials contribute to a richer sound experience, the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing may provide a slightly rounder sound compared to the Sky POM's POM top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches use nylon material, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of the nylon material allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material between the Ice King Linear and the Sky POM means that both switches will deliver a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the overall sound and feel of the switch will be more pronounced compared to the top housing.
Overall, while the Durock Ice King Linear and the Dareu Sky POM differ in their top housing materials, both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing. This commonality in bottom housing material ensures that both switches offer a deep and full sound profile that is characteristic of nylon material. Whether you prefer the slightly rounder sound of the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing or the unique, muted sound of the Sky POM's POM top housing, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The Ice King Linear requires an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. In contrast, the Sky POM has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, with the bottom out force being unspecified. The difference in actuation force suggests that the Ice King Linear may offer a slightly more tactile typing experience compared to the Sky POM. However, the lack of information on the bottom out force for the Sky POM makes it difficult to fully assess how it compares in terms of overall typing feel. In terms of weight, the Ice King Linear is heavier than the Sky POM, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force, as well as typing style and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Ice King Linear switch the shorter of the two options in terms of travel distance. A shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, as it allows for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback, appealing to those who enjoy a deeper keystroke sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience one is looking for.
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 Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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 more subdued and dampened sound when pressed, providing a subtle sound signature that is not completely silent. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is known for its low-pitched sound, featuring a bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The choice of sound between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and can be further influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Ice King Linear and Sky POM switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience. The Ice King Linear switch is described as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished, providing a typing sensation that is exceptionally smooth with minimal resistance. Similarly, the Sky POM switch is characterized as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a seamless and uniform typing experience. Both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing feel and maximize comfort during extended typing sessions.
Overall, both the Durock Ice King Linear and Dareu Sky POM linear switches excel in providing a premium typing experience with their smooth and refined qualities. While the Ice King Linear switch may offer a more subdued sound compared to the low-pitched sound of the Sky POM switch, both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort in typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Dareu Sky POM linear switches, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences. If you prioritize a medium bottom out force and a silky smooth typing experience with factory lube, the Ice King Linear may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch crafted entirely from POM material that offers a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force, the Sky POM switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which features align best with your typing preferences and overall typing experience.
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