Durock Ice King Linear vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Type S. The Ice King Linear is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. It is often described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S, a flagship offering from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," boasts a 65g bottom-out weight that appeals to those who prefer a weightier keystroke. Its sound signature leans towards a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, and it is categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Subdued'. Both switches have their unique characteristics and appeal to different preferences when it comes to typing experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Type S utilize nylon as the material for their top and bottom housing components. This choice of material provides a unique typing experience by creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer and more sound-absorbent nature of nylon. The duller and rounder sound produced by both switches is a result of this characteristic, making them popular choices for those seeking a more tactile typing experience. While the top and bottom housings of both switches are made of nylon, the specific design and construction of each housing may result in subtle differences in sound and feel.
Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their housing materials, slight variations in design and construction may lead to differences in the typing experience between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Type S. The arrangement of the top and bottom housings can impact the sound and feel of each keystroke, with the bottom housing having a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. These nuances in design may result in subtle variations in sound and feel that can be discerned by enthusiasts and keyboard connoisseurs.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Type S offer a similar typing experience due to their shared use of nylon for both top and bottom housing components. The deeper and fuller sound profile produced by the softer and more sound-absorbent nature of nylon is a common characteristic that unites these switches. Despite any minor differences in design or construction, both switches provide users with a tactile typing experience that is enhanced by the unique properties of nylon. Whether choosing the Ice King Linear or the Type S, users can expect to enjoy a satisfying typing experience that is characterized by a rich and dynamic sound profile.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Gateron Type S linear switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ice King requires 62 grams, while the Type S requires 65 grams, making it slightly heavier. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, offering a balance between a light typing experience and a more tactile feel. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Ice King for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Type S for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual typing preferences and how much force one prefers when using a keyboard.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Type S linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Ice King Linear switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Type S switch. The shorter travel distance of the Ice King Linear switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, as shorter distances are associated with quick key presses. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Type S switch may provide a more satisfying and substantial typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences 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 Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 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 and dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle acoustic experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S switch also delivers a subdued sound profile, but with a neutral and moderate actuation force requirement. Both switches cater to users seeking a quieter typing experience, depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Ice King Linear switch boasts a silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience, ensuring smoothness, minimal resistance, and a luxurious sensation with each keystroke. Unfortunately, information about the tactile feel of the Gateron Type S switch is unavailable at this time. If the Type S switch is similar in design to the Ice King Linear switch, users can expect a similarly smooth and effortless typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Linear switch impresses with its sound and feel characteristics that promote a silky typing experience accompanied by a subdued sound. In contrast, while the specifics of the Gateron Type S switch remain undisclosed, its similarities in sound profile suggest a comparable typing experience in terms of sound. For newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world looking for a refined and comfortable typing experience, both switches offer promising options to consider.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Type S linear switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a smoother and more frictionless typing experience with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Ice King Linear may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a weightier keystroke with a neutral and subdued sound signature, the Gateron Type S could be the more suitable choice. Consider your typing preferences, sound preferences, and desired feel when selecting between these two switches to ensure the best typing experience for your needs.
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