Durock Ice King Linear vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Brown mechanical keyboard switches, there are key differences to consider. The Ice King Linear switch offers a smooth and frictionless typing experience, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. It is characterized by its silky, subdued, and creamy feel. On the other hand, the WS Brown switch provides a medium-light actuation force that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, making it ideal for fatigue-free typing during long sessions. Its familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination offer a delightful auditory experience. Both switches have their unique advantages, so it ultimately depends on your personal preference. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Brown both use nylon as the material for their switch housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in housing material means that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
While both switches utilize nylon for their top housing, the bottom housing of each switch may differ. This can affect the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, as the qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent in this aspect. Additionally, the top housing material can impact the sound when releasing a key, providing a unique typing experience for each switch. Despite these differences, the overall use of nylon in both switches ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Brown share the use of nylon as their switch housing material, resulting in a consistent typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the bottom housing material may vary between the two switches, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is influenced by this difference. However, the top housing material plays a role in the sound when releasing a key, providing a unique typing experience for each switch. Overall, both switches offer a reliable typing experience with the use of nylon in their housing materials.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the WS Brown has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Ice King Linear has a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches fall into the medium force category, making them suitable for those who prefer a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. The Ice King Linear may appeal more to those who prefer a slightly heavier typing experience, while the WS Brown may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ice King Linear switch for its increased responsiveness. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the WS Brown tactile switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance, with the Ice King Linear being the shorter option and the WS Brown being the longer one.
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 Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Ice King Linear offers a subdued typing experience, providing a dampened sound when pressed that is not completely silent but more subtle compared to most switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the WS Brown tactile switch is not specified. Both switches may produce different sound profiles depending on the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Linear switch is praised for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience, which results in exceptionally smooth keypresses with minimal resistance. Conversely, the feel of the WS Brown switch is not described. Overall, both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience with different tactile feedback based on personal preferences.
Taking all the information into account, the Ice King Linear and WS Brown switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Ice King Linear is known for providing a smooth and quiet typing experience, the WS Brown switch aims to strike a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired sound and feel for the keyboard setup. It is important for newcomers to consider their typing style and preferences to choose the switch that best suits their needs for an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a silky smooth typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a subdued sound, the Ice King Linear may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort with a medium-light bottom out force and a tactile feel, the WS Brown could be the switch that suits your typing style best. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
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