Durock Ice King Linear vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Linear and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches known for their silky smooth typing experience. The Ice King Linear offers a frictionless and subdued feel, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, making it a polished choice for those who prefer a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out with its deeper sound profile, in contrast to the typically brighter sound signature of HMX switches, while also providing a delicate 42g actuation force for an easy-to-press and bouncy feel. 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
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the HMX Swift both use nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches will create a duller and rounder sound when typing on them. This similarity in housing material ensures that users will get similar sound and feel when typing on either the Ice King Linear or the Swift.
However, despite having the same nylon top and bottom housing materials, the Durock Ice King Linear and the HMX Swift may still have differences in their overall sound profile and typing experience. This is because the design and construction of the switches, as well as other factors such as stem material and spring weight, can also influence the sound and feel of the switch. Therefore, even with the same housing material, there may still be subtle differences between the Ice King Linear and the Swift in terms of typing experience.
In essence, while the Durock Ice King Linear and the HMX Swift share the same housing material of nylon for both the top and bottom housings, the overall typing experience can still vary between the two switches due to other factors at play. Both switches will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, but other aspects of the switches such as stem design and construction may contribute to differences in sound and feel. Ultimately, trying out both switches side by side would provide the best comparison to truly understand how each switch differs despite the shared housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that the Ice King requires a higher actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Swift's 42 grams. Furthermore, the Ice King has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is heavier than the Swift's 50 grams. The Ice King offers a more substantial typing experience with its higher actuation and bottom out forces, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Swift is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this case, the Ice King Linear has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Swift. A travel distance of 3.5 mm may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers, while a 3.9 mm travel distance may provide a slightly more substantial feel when pressing down on the key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Both switches offer a different tactile feel due to their travel distance, but they will both provide reliable performance for keyboard users.
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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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
The Ice King Linear switch offers a subdued sound profile, providing a dampened and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Swift switch produces a clacky sound, known for its sharp and percussive nature. In terms of feel, the Ice King Linear switch is described as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. Comparatively, the Swift switch is known for being easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and also creamy, providing a light and low-impact typing feel with a spring-like feedback sensation. Overall, both switches offer a smooth typing experience but differ in sound profile and the level of actuation force required. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you can achieve similar results with either switch based on the specific qualities that appeal to you.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and HMX Swift linear switches, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a medium bottom out force and a silky smooth typing feel with a subdued sound, the Ice King Linear switch would be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a deep, clacky sound with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, the HMX Swift switch would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing force, sound profile, and tactile response. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for an optimal typing experience.
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