Durock Ice King Linear vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile are two popular options to consider. The Ice King Linear offers a silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, making it ideal for those seeking a frictionless and polished feel while typing. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile provides a smooth and tactile bump, along with a neutral sound signature, appealing to those who prefer a more stepped and easy-to-press typing experience. 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
50g
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
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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This means that typing on switches from both keyboards will elicit a similar deep and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer plastic properties absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, contributing to the overall typing experience.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Ice King Linear features a nylon top housing, while the WS Light Tactile has a polycarbonate top housing. This difference results in a contrast in sound profiles, with the Ice King Linear producing a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's softer properties, while the WS Light Tactile creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to polycarbonate's stiffness. Interestingly, the WS Light Tactile's translucent polycarbonate top housing also makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the keyboard's aesthetic appeal.
In conclusion, while both keyboards share a common nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deep and fuller sound profile, the difference in their top housings sets them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The Ice King Linear offers a softer and rounder sound with its nylon top housing, while the WS Light Tactile provides a sharper and clearer sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two keyboards will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and aesthetic features.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch. The Ice King Linear requires 52 grams of force to actuate and 62 grams to bottom out, while the WS Light Tactile only needs 45 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out. The Ice King Linear provides a more medium feel, suitable for those who prefer a bit more resistance in their keystrokes, while the WS Light Tactile offers a lighter touch for a smoother typing experience. Both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience, but the Ice King Linear will offer a slightly heavier feel compared to the WS Light Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Despite the small difference in travel distance, both switches offer a relatively short travel compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Ice King Linear for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the WS Light Tactile for its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 sound, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature when pressed. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch delivers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, suitable for various environments and user preferences. Both switches offer different sound characteristics, allowing for customization based on personal preference and typing environment.
When it comes to feel, the Ice King Linear switch is praised for its silky and frictionless typing experience, offering minimal resistance and smooth key travel. The switch also provides a creamy and polished sensation, enhancing the overall typing feel with a buttery and refined finish. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and light actuation force for effortless and comfortable typing. Additionally, the switch features a stepped tactile feel, providing a more subdued tactile experience compared to hyper-tactile switches.
Overall, both the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ice King Linear excels in providing a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a subdued sound profile, while the WS Light Tactile offers a versatile sound signature and an easy-to-press tactile feel. Depending on personal preference and typing requirements, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches, it all comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a silky smooth typing experience with a subdued sound profile, then the Ice King Linear would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a snappy tactile bump with a neutral sound signature, then the WS Light Tactile switches would better suit your needs. Consider your typing habits, preferences for actuation force and sound, as well as the overall feel you desire from your keyboard switches when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
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