Durock Ice King Linear vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Linear and the PH Studio Yoel both offer unique typing experiences worth exploring. The Ice King Linear is celebrated for its silky smooth feel, thanks to its full nylon construction and factory lube, creating a frictionless and subdued typing experience categorized as ‘Creamy’ and ‘Polished’. On the other hand, the Yoel linear switch by PH Studio boasts a delectably chewy typing sensation, with a bright and clacky sound profile that resonates satisfyingly upon bottoming out. Categorized as ‘Clacky’ and ‘Resonant’, the Yoel provides a different tactile and auditory experience compared to the Ice King Linear. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Linear and the PH Studio Yoel switches both feature different housing materials in their design, with the Ice King Linear using nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the Yoel switch has a polycarbonate top housing and a POM bottom housing. The nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Yoel switch creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. The POM bottom housing of the Yoel switch, on the other hand, produces a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Ice King Linear.
Aesthetically, the choice of housing material also plays a role in the overall design of the switches. The translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through for a visually appealing effect. In contrast, the opaque nature of nylon and POM housing materials may not allow for the same level of light transmission. However, both types of housing materials offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience for users. While the Ice King Linear leverages the softer properties of nylon for a deeper sound profile, the Yoel switch utilizes the stiffer nature of polycarbonate and POM for a sharper and deeper sound profile, respectively.
Overall, the choice of housing material in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience for users. The softer nylon housing in the Ice King Linear creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate and POM housing in the Yoel switch offers a sharper and more muted sound experience. While they have different characteristics, both housing materials contribute to creating a unique typing experience for users. Whether you're looking for a switch with a deeper, duller sound profile like the Ice King Linear or a sharper, crisper sound profile like the Yoel switch, the choice of housing material will ultimately influence the overall feel and sound of the switch.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch are quite similar. The Ice King Linear has a slightly lighter actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Yoel's 53 grams, while the Yoel has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Ice King Linear's 62 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. Some users prefer lighter switches for longer typing sessions, while others prefer heavier switches for a more substantial typing experience. In this case, both switches provide a good balance between actuation force and bottom out force, giving users a similar typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Yoel switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Ice King Linear switch. The difference may be minor, but it can impact the overall feel and response of the switch. Those who prefer a quicker and more responsive keystroke may lean towards the Yoel switch, while those who enjoy a slightly deeper key press may prefer the Ice King Linear switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on 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 PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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
Sound-wise, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is characterized by a subdued and dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch produces a bright, clacky, and resonant sound profile that is sharp and crisp, creating a satisfying and pronounced auditory experience. If you prefer a quieter typing environment, the Ice King Linear may be more suitable, while the Yoel offers a more vibrant and engaging sound feedback.
When it comes to the typing feel, both the Ice King Linear and the Yoel switches offer a smooth and buttery experience. The Ice King Linear switch is described as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Similarly, the Yoel switch is also described as creamy, polished, and silky, offering a silky sensation and smooth key travel. Both switches prioritize a comfortable and effortless typing experience, making them ideal for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Linear and the PH Studio Yoel linear switches both excel in providing a smooth typing experience, characterized by their buttery and silky feel. The Ice King Linear offers a more subdued sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, while the Yoel delivers a bright and clacky sound that adds a tactile element to typing. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on personal preference in sound and feel, as both are designed to enhance the typing experience with their smooth and responsive qualities.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a slightly higher bottom out force and a smoother typing experience with a subdued sound profile, the Ice King Linear may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lower bottom out force, a delectably chewy typing experience with a clacky and resonant sound profile, then the Yoel might be the switch for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make your decision based on what typing experience you value the most.
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