Durock Ice King Linear vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gazzew U4 offer two distinct typing experiences. The Ice King Linear is praised for its silky smooth feel and frictionless typing experience, thanks to its full nylon construction and factory lube. Known for being subdued and creamy, this switch provides a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 stands out for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, along with a plush bottom-out sensation. With a sound profile that is muted and low-pitched, the U4 offers a more subtle typing experience. Each switch has its own unique qualities and appeal, making them suitable for 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Linear and the Gazzew U4 both feature top and bottom housings made of different materials. The Ice King Linear's nylon top and bottom housing are renowned for their ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon plastic that absorbs sound more effectively. On the other hand, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, known as "boba plastic," also offer a rich and deep sound profile due to its soft composition. While both switches provide a similar effect on sound due to their soft housing materials, the specific blend of plastics used in the U4 may offer a slightly different acoustic experience compared to the all-nylon construction of the Ice King Linear.
In terms of typing experience, the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gazzew U4 play a significant role in shaping the overall feel and sound of the switches. The nylon top and bottom housing of the Ice King Linear contribute to a duller and rounder sound when typing, enhancing the overall typing experience with a deeper sound profile. Similarly, the Gazzew blend top and bottom housing of the U4 also deliver a rich and deep sound profile that adds to the tactile feedback while typing. Both switches utilize softer plastics in their housing materials, providing a more cushioned feel with each keystroke, although the specific composition of the Gazzew blend may offer a slightly different typing experience compared to the all-nylon construction of the Ice King Linear.
While the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gazzew U4 may have different materials for their top and bottom housings, the impact of these materials on the overall typing experience is divided between the two components of the switch. The bottom housing of each switch influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed, affecting the overall tactile feedback of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more significant role in determining the sound when a key is released, shaping the overall sound profile of the switch. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer a similarly enhanced typing experience with their soft plastic construction, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile that caters to enthusiasts seeking a premium keyboard experience.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force at 52 grams compared to the Gazzew U4 tactile switch at 45 grams, making the Ice King slightly heavier. However, both switches have the same bottom out force at 62 grams, which means that despite the slight difference in actuation force, the typing experience in terms of bottoming out will be quite similar between the two. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the Gazzew U4, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may find the Durock Ice King Linear more to their liking. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two distances may not be significant to most users, as they will likely feel similar when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for slight variations in travel distance.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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 sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is described as having a muted and low-pitched sound profile, which minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards and offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches are designed to provide a quiet typing experience, but the U4 may have a slightly more noticeable sound due to its tactile feedback.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Ice King Linear is praised for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless feel with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile bump that provides strong and crisp feedback with each keypress. The U4 switch may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile sensation compared to the smoother typing experience of the Ice King Linear.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Linear and Gazzew U4 switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Ice King Linear provides a smooth and subtle typing experience with a subdued sound profile, while the Gazzew U4 offers a more tactile and sharp feedback with a muted sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for either a smooth and quiet typing experience (Ice King Linear) or a more tactile and pronounced feedback (Gazzew U4). Regardless of the choice, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience and offer high-quality performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gazzew U4 tactile switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile. If you prefer a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a subdued sound, then the Ice King Linear may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp and intense tactile bump with a muted, low-pitched sound, then the Gazzew U4 switch could be more fitting for your typing style. Consider your preferences for typing feel and sound when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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