Durock Ice King Linear vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two intriguing options. The Ice King Linear offers a silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, making it feel 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver boasts lightning-fast actuation with its all-POM composition and short travel distance, producing a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles, 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Smoothie Silver are both designed to enhance the sound profile of the switches. The Ice King Linear utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its soft plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver features a POM top housing that produces a unique, deeper, and more muted sound. While the materials differ, both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct auditory feedback.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ice King Linear again utilizes nylon, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out the key. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver incorporates a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to the pleasing and unique sound of the switch. This bottom housing enhances the deeper tone and muted sound of the switch, offering a different typing experience compared to the Ice King Linear.
While the top and bottom housings of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Smoothie Silver differ in material, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles. The bottom housing of each switch affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in material, users can expect similar results in terms of enhanced sound quality and overall typing experience from both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is evident that there are some notable differences. The Ice King Linear has a slightly higher actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Smoothie Silver's 45 grams, making the Ice King slightly heavier to press down. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Ice King requires 62 grams, while the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Ice King Linear switch offers a more consistent typing experience, as it requires a consistent amount of force throughout the keystroke process. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver may provide a lighter initial press but lacks information on the force needed to bottom out. Ultimately, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Smoothie Silver, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Ice King Linear. Both switches offer their unique advantages, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distances, making them ideal for gamers looking for faster response times. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Ice King Linear may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, whether you choose the Ice King Linear or the Smoothie Silver switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and overall typing experience.
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 Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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
Both the Ice King Linear and Smoothie Silver switches have unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ice King Linear switch offers a subdued sound, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver switch is known for its thocky sound, providing a more satisfying and tactile typing sound. In terms of feel, the Ice King Linear switch is described as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished, highlighting its smooth and effortless typing experience. The Smoothie Silver switch, while lacking specific descriptors, is praised for its smoothness, lightning-fast actuation, and feather-light touch. Overall, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Ice King Linear focusing on smoothness and dampened sound, and the Smoothie Silver emphasizing a more tactile and lightning-fast typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing speed.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switches, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, typing experience, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 62 grams and are looking for a silky smooth typing experience with excellent factory lube, the Ice King Linear would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no defined bottom out force and value a lightning-fast actuation with a thocky sound and feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver might be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and what attributes you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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