Durock Ice King Linear vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking to choose between the Durock Ice King Linear and the TKC Tangerine mechanical keyboard switches, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Ice King Linear offers a silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, making it perfect for those who prefer a subdued and polished feel while typing. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch boasts an incredibly smooth feel and high-pitched clack, providing a buttery and polished typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it really comes down to individual preference. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Linear and TKC Tangerine switches both feature unique housing materials that significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. The Ice King Linear utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Tangerine switches feature UHWMPE top and bottom housings, providing a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. The difference in materials between the two switches results in distinct typing experiences, with the Ice King offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the Tangerine's bright and resonant clacks.
While the Ice King Linear and TKC Tangerine switches both offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials, they also share some similarities in their design. Both switches feature top and bottom housings made of different materials, splitting the qualities each material brings between the top and bottom of the switch. This split in housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches prioritize sound quality and provide a customized typing experience based on the specific housing materials used.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and TKC Tangerine switches play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. The Ice King's nylon housing creates a deep and full sound, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE housing offers a bright and resonant typing experience. The split between top and bottom housing materials in these switches further enhances the uniqueness of their sound profiles, providing nuanced feedback when typing. Whether opting for the Ice King's nylon housing or the Tangerine's UHWMPE housing, users can expect a tailored typing experience with distinct sound characteristics based on the chosen switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear and TKC Tangerine linear switches, we find some similarities and differences. The Ice King Linear has an actuation force of 52 grams, while the Tangerine's actuation force is unknown. Both switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a medium-weight feel when typing. In terms of weight, the Ice King Linear is lighter in terms of actuation force, which may appeal to users looking for a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch offers a heavier bottom out force, giving users a more substantial push feel for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the TKC Tangerine linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ice King switch's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Tangerine switch's longer travel distance could provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between them will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness. Ultimately, the Ice King Linear switch offers a shorter travel distance for quicker key presses, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch provides a slightly longer travel distance for a more deliberate key press.
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 TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30 per 10 switches.
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, creating a dampened typing experience that is not completely silent but provides a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch produces a high-pitched and sharp sound when pressed, which may not be appealing to everyone who prefers a richer and bassier sound profile. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is described as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished, all contributing to an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance and friction. Similarly, the TKC Tangerine switch is noted for its frictionless, buttery, and polished feel, emphasizing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that ensures seamless and uniform typing sensation. Both switches offer a premium feel that enhances the overall typing experience.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that both the Durock Ice King Linear and TKC Tangerine switches provide superior qualities in terms of sound and feel, with slight variations in sound pitch and typing feel. Ultimately, whether you prefer the subdued sound and silky typing experience of the Ice King Linear or the high-pitched sound and buttery feel of the Tangerine switch will depend on personal preference. However, both switches are sure to deliver a top-tier typing experience for newcomers looking to elevate their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and TKC Tangerine linear switches, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you value a silky smooth typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a more subdued sound profile, the Ice King Linear may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a high-pitched sound, along with a buttery and polished feel, the Tangerine switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what characteristics are most important to you in a keyboard switch - whether it be feel, sound, or typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
