Durock Ice King Linear vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gazzew U4Tx offer unique qualities to consider. The Ice King Linear provides a silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, resulting in a frictionless and subdued feel categorized as 'Creamy' and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx offers a tactile typing experience with a satisfying bump and a refined sound profile characterized by a deep "thock" when bottoming out and whisper-quiet topping out, falling under categories like 'Bassy' and 'Sharp'. Both switches have their pros and cons, making them suitable for different preferences. 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
62.5g
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
Partial box
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Linear and the Gazzew U4Tx both feature top housing materials that are designed to enhance the sound profile of the switch. The Ice King Linear's nylon top housing is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both of these top housing materials are aimed at providing a more satisfying typing experience by producing a more rounded and duller sound.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Ice King Linear and the U4Tx differ slightly in their composition. The Ice King Linear utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which shares similar characteristics with its top housing in terms of sound profile. The U4Tx, on the other hand, features a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, which is also designed to provide a rich and deep sound profile. While both bottom housings are softer plastics that absorb sound well, the specific blend used in the U4Tx may offer a slightly different sound experience compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Ice King Linear.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gazzew U4Tx ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Both switches feature top and bottom housing materials that aim to enhance the typing experience by creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether you prefer the classic feel of nylon or the proprietary blend of "boba plastic," both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and typing feel from both switches, thanks to their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, we can see that the Ice King Linear has a slightly lighter actuation force of 52 grams compared to the U4Tx, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of force required to press all the way down. The Ice King Linear may be preferred by those who prefer a slightly lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions, while the U4Tx may suit individuals who enjoy a slightly more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a medium level of actuation force and bottom out force, providing a balanced typing experience for a range of preferences.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, making them suitable for users looking for quicker response times. However, the Ice King Linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the U4Tx. This difference may result in a slightly faster and more responsive feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the desired travel distance and typing experience.
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 U4Tx 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 more subdued sound profile, providing a dampened and subtle sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch delivers a bassy and muted sound experience, characterized by a deeper and richer tone with a softer and quieter touch. The choice between the two would ultimately depend on personal preference, with the Ice King Linear offering a calmer typing atmosphere compared to the more resonant and bass-heavy sound of the U4Tx.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is lauded for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience, emphasizing a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance and effortless key presses. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is described as providing a sharp and intense feedback with a distinct tactile bump, ensuring a pronounced tactile typing experience. Both switches aim to enhance typing comfort, with the Ice King Linear focusing on smoothness and ease of use, while the U4Tx prioritizes a sharp and crisp tactile response.
Taking into account the sound and feel qualities of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, users can expect a distinct difference in their typing experience. The Ice King Linear excels in providing a subdued and silky typing feel, enhanced by its full nylon construction and factory lube for a smooth and seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx offers a bassy and sharp feedback with its unique design for a cleaner and more refined sound profile. Whether you prefer the calm and smooth touch of the Ice King Linear or the intense and tactile feedback of the U4Tx, both switches promise a luxurious and satisfying typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force for a silky smooth typing experience, the Durock Ice King Linear would be an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force that provides a sharp, satisfying tactile bump and a deep, resonant "thock" sound profile, then the Gazzew U4Tx would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize smoothness and minimal sound (Ice King Linear) or a tactile bump with a bassy, muted sound profile (Gazzew U4Tx). Each switch offers a unique typing experience, so consider your preferences carefully before making a selection.
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