Durock Ice King Linear vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Jwick Taro offer distinct qualities to consider. The Ice King Linear is celebrated for its smooth and frictionless typing experience, thanks to its full nylon construction and factory lube, making it a popular choice for those seeking a silky and polished feel while typing. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro stands out for its cozy and tactile typing experience, with a medium level of tactility that provides a satisfyingly snappy feel accompanied by crisp clacks. While the Ice King Linear boasts a subdued and creamy typing experience, the Taro offers a buttery and stepped sensation. Both switches have their own unique qualities 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Jwick Taro, it is clear that they both use nylon for their bottom housing. 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, the typing experience on both switches will likely be similar in terms of sound and feel, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This consistency in bottom housing material may indicate a comparable typing experience between the two switches.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Ice King Linear utilizes nylon while the Taro uses polycarbonate. This key difference in material results in contrasting sound profiles. The Ice King Linear's nylon top housing will produce a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the Taro's polycarbonate top housing will create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Taro allows for RGB lighting to shine through due to its translucency, adding an aesthetic element that the Ice King Linear may not feature. As a result, the typing experience on the two switches will likely differ in terms of sound profile, with the Taro having a clearer and more resonant sound compared to the Ice King Linear.
In summary, while the Durock Ice King Linear and the Jwick Taro share a common nylon bottom housing that provides a similar typing experience, their top housings differ in material and sound profile. The Ice King Linear's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Taro's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound with the added benefit of RGB lighting. These variations in housing materials contribute to unique typing experiences on each switch, catering to different preferences for sound and aesthetics. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and visual appeal.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Ice King has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Taro has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 67 grams. The Ice King is lighter in terms of actuation force, making it easier to type on for longer periods of time. On the other hand, the Taro is heavier in terms of bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, offering a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. 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 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of traditional travel distances, making them suitable for gamers looking for faster response times. While the Ice King Linear offers a slightly shorter travel distance, both switches provide a similar level of responsiveness. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the Taro tactile switch more satisfying due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 is known for its subdued sound, offering a dampened and subtle sound signature when pressed. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, suitable for various purposes. While the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps used, both switches provide distinct auditory experiences that cater to different preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Ice King Linear switch offers a silky and frictionless typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing smoothness. With a creamy and polished feel, users can expect effortless key presses and a refined typing sensation. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, it offers a stepped tactile feel, with stages in the keystroke that offer a unique typing sensation compared to the Ice King Linear.
Taking into account the subjective qualities of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, users can expect different experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Ice King Linear offers a subdued sound and a silky, frictionless feel, while the Taro switch provides a neutral sound profile and a buttery, stepped tactile feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches offer unique characteristics that can cater to different needs and preferences. Ultimately, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch, albeit with distinct qualities that offer a tailored experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Jwick Taro switches, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly lighter touch, the Ice King Linear with 62 grams bottom out force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier touch, the Jwick Taro with 67 grams bottom out force might be more suitable. Additionally, if you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience with a subtle sound, the Ice King Linear is the way to go. However, if you prefer a cozy typing experience with a snappy tactility and moderate sound profile, the Taro might be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
