Durock Ice King Linear vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may want to consider the Durock Ice King Linear and the Jerrzi Violet. The Ice King Linear offers a silky smooth typing experience with its full nylon construction and factory lube, making it a great choice for those looking for a frictionless and subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet is a tactile switch known for its smooth actuation and pleasingly poppy tactility, providing a balanced and enjoyable typing experience with a neutral sound signature. 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
N/A
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
Yes
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 Jerrzi Violet, it is clear that they both have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Ice King Linear's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder sound. On the other hand, the Violet's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer nature, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. While both materials have their own advantages, the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired sound experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials also play a role in the overall look of the switch. The Ice King Linear's nylon housing may not provide the translucency that the polycarbonate housing of the Violet offers, making it more suitable for switches with RGB lighting. The clear polycarbonate housing of the Violet allows for the RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. Therefore, if RGB lighting is a priority, the Violet may be the preferred choice due to its translucent housing material.
Despite their differences, both housing materials are classic choices for switch housings, with nylon being known for its deeper and fuller sound profile while polycarbonate offers a sharper and crisper sound. When it comes to typing experience, the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials of a switch will contribute to the overall sound and feel. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, whether the Ice King Linear or the Jerrzi Violet is chosen will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, aesthetics, and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Ice King Linear has a higher actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Violet's 45 grams, making it slightly heavier to press down initially. However, the Ice King Linear also has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the Violet, whose bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Violet may be more suitable due to its lower actuation force. However, for individuals who prefer a heavier push feel, the Ice King Linear would be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Ice King Linear offering a slightly heavier typing experience and the Violet providing a potentially lighter one.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Violet tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ice King Linear switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking a more responsive typing or gaming experience. However, if you prefer a slightly deeper key press, you may find the Violet tactile switch to be more to your liking. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, and you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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 Jerrzi Violet tactile switch features a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various uses. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel, the Ice King Linear switch is praised for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience, with an exceptionally smooth and effortless feel that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Conversely, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch is characterized by a stepped feel, offering a two-stage tactile sensation with mild pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different tactile feedback.
Considering all the available information, it's evident that the Durock Ice King Linear switch excels in providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch offers a balanced and enjoyable typing experience with a poppy tactility and a neutral sound signature. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches are designed to cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the Ice King Linear and Violet switches will depend on whether you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience with a subdued sound or a balanced tactile feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you are seeking. If you prefer a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a moderate sound profile, the Ice King Linear would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy gentle tactility and a more subdued sound profile, the Jerrzi Violet switches may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. With this information in mind, you can confidently choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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