Durock Ice King Linear vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile stand out as top contenders. The Ice King Linear offers a silky smooth typing experience with its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, providing a frictionless and creamy feel. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile by Wuque Studio is tailored for office environments, boasting medium tactility and superior noise reduction without the need for silicone dampeners. This switch delivers a silent yet crisp typing experience, setting a new standard in silent switches. While the Ice King Linear is characterized by its subdued and polished attributes, the WS Silent Tactile is known for its invigorating and muted qualities. Each switch caters to different preferences and needs, making them ideal for various typing experiences. 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
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing material. This means that both switches will offer similar qualities in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. Typing on these switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. These switches offer a classic typing experience with a softer overall feel.
However, while the housing materials for both switches are the same, the design and construction of each switch may lead to subtle differences in typing experience. The Ice King Linear and WS Silent Tactile may have slight variations in sound output and tactile feedback due to differences in their internal components and design. It is important to consider these factors when choosing between the two switches, as personal preference plays a large role in determining which switch will provide a more satisfying typing experience.
Overall, both the Durock Ice King Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile offer a similar typing experience thanks to their shared use of nylon housing materials. Typing on these switches will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more rounded and tactile typing experience. Whether choosing the Ice King Linear or the WS Silent Tactile, users can expect a classic typing experience with a softer feel and a more mellow sound profile compared to switches with harder plastic housings.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Ice King Linear has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the WS Silent Tactile's 63.5 grams. This means that the Ice King Linear may feel slightly lighter to press initially, but requires a bit more force to fully depress the key compared to the WS Silent Tactile. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of force required. Users looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Ice King Linear, while those who prefer a bit more resistance and feedback may opt for the WS Silent Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for the actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing them, both switches offer the same level of keypress feedback and experience in terms of travel distance. This means that users can expect consistent typing experiences in terms of the distance traveled from top to bottom when pressing the keys. Whether you choose the Ice King Linear or the WS Silent Tactile, you can be assured that you will get a similar travel distance when using either switch.
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 Silent 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, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, as well as a muted sound that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Both switches offer different sound profiles suited for different preferences, with the Ice King Linear being quieter overall.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is known for its silky and frictionless typing experience, offering minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys, while providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch provides an accented tactile feedback, offering a medium level of tactility that is prominent but not overwhelming, creating an invigorating typing sensation with a moderate to firm actuation force. Both switches offer unique typing experiences with the Ice King Linear focusing on smoothness and the WS Silent Tactile focusing on tactile feedback.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Linear switch excels in providing a quiet and smooth typing experience, perfect for those who prioritize a subdued sound and frictionless feel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch offers a unique combination of silent operation and tactile feedback, catering to individuals seeking a quiet yet responsive typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, these switches provide distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance, making them reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a tailored typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and silky typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a silent yet tactile switch with a moderate bottom out force and superior noise reduction, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize smooth typing or silent operation with tactile feedback in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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