Durock Ice King Linear vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Ice King Linear and the Durock White Lotus are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences. The Ice King Linear offers a smooth and frictionless typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and factory lube, making it a great choice for those who prefer a silky feel while typing. On the other hand, the White Lotus provides a light tactile feedback that strikes the perfect balance between tactility and smoothness, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more subtle tactile sensation while typing. Each switch has its own unique characteristics, with the Ice King Linear being described as 'Silky' and 'Creamy', and the White Lotus being 'Subtle' and 'Neutral'. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
56g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
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
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Durock White Lotus have some similarities as they both feature nylon top housing. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic housing. However, the White Lotus also features a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which gives it a unique and premium feel not found in the Ice King Linear.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Ice King Linear is also made of nylon, while the White Lotus features a nylon bottom housing as well. This means that both switches share the same qualities in terms of the material used for the bottom housing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches, creating a rounder and duller sound compared to switches with harder plastic housing.
When comparing the two switches, the different top housing materials between the Ice King Linear and the White Lotus will have an impact on the sound when pressing down on the switch and when releasing a key. The qualities brought by the top housing material will be felt when letting go of a key, while the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. As a result, users can expect a different typing experience with each switch based on the combination of housing materials used.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is clear that the Ice King Linear is slightly heavier than the White Lotus. The Ice King Linear has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the White Lotus has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balanced typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the White Lotus, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Ice King Linear. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing comfort and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Durock White Lotus tactile switch. This means that the Ice King Linear switch offers a slightly quicker keypress experience compared to the White Lotus switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Ice King Linear switch due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper keypress and more tactile feedback may opt for the White Lotus switch with its longer travel distance. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for keypress depth 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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is known for its subdued sound, offering a dampened and subtle sound profile when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone without being too loud or obtrusive. Both switches aim to create a pleasant typing experience without being overly disruptive in noise level.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Linear switch is celebrated for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience, providing smooth and effortless key presses with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the White Lotus tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press, mild, and subtle, offering gentle resistance and a comfortable typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. Both switches focus on providing a smooth and enjoyable typing experience with slightly different approaches to tactile feedback.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch both offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Ice King Linear switch leans towards a smoother and more refined typing experience with subdued sound, the White Lotus tactile switch provides a gentle and easy-to-press feel with a low-pitched sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for typing sensation and noise level, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience. Ultimately, whether you prefer a sleek and polished typing feel or a gentle and easy-to-press experience, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Durock White Lotus switches, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a smooth and effortless typing experience with a subtle sound profile, the Ice King Linear may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light tactile feel with gentle resistance and the option for vibrant RGB lighting effects, the White Lotus switches would be a great choice. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it ultimately comes down to what feels best for you. Whether you opt for the silky smoothness of the Ice King Linear or the delicate tactility of the White Lotus, both switches are sure to enhance your typing experience.
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