Durock Ice King Linear vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Onion both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Ice King Linear is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, making it ideal for those looking for a frictionless and creamy feel while typing. On the other hand, the WS Onion stands out for its buttery smooth keystroke feel, provided by its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. This results in a crisp and responsive typing experience with a neutral sound profile, perfect for those seeking a polished and satisfying feel. 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
63.5g
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
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
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Onion, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. However, the Ice King Linear differs in its top housing, which is made of nylon as well, while the WS Onion features a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the WS Onion creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the duller and rounder sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear.
While both the Ice King Linear and the WS Onion share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, they diverge in their choice of top housing material. The nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the WS Onion results in a sharper and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing in the WS Onion allows for RGB lighting effects, adding an aesthetic element to the switch that the Ice King Linear may lack. Despite these differences, both switches benefit from the sound-absorbing properties of nylon in their bottom housing, providing a consistent tactile experience for users.
In considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both the Ice King Linear and the WS Onion ensures a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a consistent typing experience for users. However, the different top housing materials of nylon in the Ice King Linear and polycarbonate in the WS Onion lead to distinct sound profiles, with the polycarbonate top housing offering a sharper and crisper typing experience compared to the duller sound produced by the nylon top housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel when typing.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch, which is unknown. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ice King requires 62 grams while the WS Onion needs 63.5 grams, making the latter slightly heavier. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ice King may be more suitable, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the WS Onion may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel for a more satisfying typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a medium actuation force but slightly differ in their bottom out force, giving users the option to choose based on their preference for typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Ice King Linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. The Ice King Linear switch is slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the WS Onion switch, which may appeal to those who prefer a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the WS Onion switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying depth when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether a slightly shorter or longer travel distance is preferred.
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 Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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 when pressed, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch presents a neutral sound profile with moderate actuation force requirement. Both switches aim to offer a pleasing typing experience without being overly loud, making them suitable for various environments. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps you pair them with.
When it comes to feel, the Ice King Linear switch is lauded for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished attributes, promising an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. Similarly, the WS Onion switch is described as buttery and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction and fluid key travel. The typing sensation provided by both switches emphasizes a seamless and uniform keystroke experience, catering to users who prioritize comfort and consistency in their typing sessions.
Considering all the available information, both the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switches offer exceptional qualities in terms of sound and feel. With similarities in terms of smoothness, refinement, and ease of typing, users can expect a similar level of typing satisfaction from either switch. Ultimately, personal preference, typing style, and specific requirements will determine which switch is the best fit for each individual user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switches, you should consider the factors that are important to you. If you are looking for a medium bottom out force and a switch that offers a silky smooth typing experience with a subdued sound profile, then the Ice King Linear may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a switch that provides a buttery smooth keystroke feel with a neutral sound profile, then the WS Onion may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what feels best for you.
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