Durock Ice King Linear vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to the nuanced characteristics of different options. The Durock Ice King Linear switch stands out for its silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lubrication, providing a frictionless and subdued feel that many typists adore. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switch offers a distinct typing experience with its deep, rounded sound profile and remarkably light actuation force, catering to those who prioritize a gentle and effortless keystroke. While the Ice King Linear is celebrated for its creamy and polished touch, the Yunhai appeals to users seeking a more relaxed typing experience that invites effortless key presses. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Ice King Linear and the TTC Yunhai utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, creating a notable point of similarity between the two switch models. The choice of nylon, which is recognized as a classic switch housing material, provides both switches with a deeper and fuller sound profile that typing enthusiasts often seek. Given that nylon is a softer plastic, it plays a significant role in damping sound—resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory experience compared to switches made from harder materials. This shared characteristic in housing materials ensures that users of both switches will experience a satisfying sound and feel while typing, enhancing the overall tactile experience.
Despite their manufacturing similarities, the specific design and execution of the Ice King Linear and the Yunhai may introduce slight variations in performance. While both models benefit from the nylon composition, factors such as housing thickness, internal structure, and overall design can influence the nuances of sound and feel during typing. Although these switches share the same material, the Ice King Linear and the Yunhai may present different sensations or acoustic profiles during usage, potentially benefiting specific user preferences or typing styles. This nuanced distinction could lead to users perceiving the performance and character of each switch uniquely, despite their common makeup.
The arrangement of the nylon materials in both switches emphasizes different aspects of the typing experience. Since the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key, the Durock Ice King Linear and the TTC Yunhai demonstrate how the same material can be employed to create unified but distinct outcomes. Consequently, users can expect a predominantly similar auditory profile, providing an overall acoustic consistency while still allowing for some differentiated tactile feedback depending on each switch's unique design elements. Therefore, regardless of minor performance discrepancies, both models offer a satisfying user experience rooted in their common choice of nylon as housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Ice King Linear and the TTC Yunhai linear switches, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Ice King Linear features an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, categorizing it as a medium force switch that provides a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Yunhai switch boasts an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, placing it in the lighter category. This means that users who favor a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions may prefer the Yunhai, as it requires less effort to register keystrokes. On the other hand, those seeking a heavier push feel may gravitate towards the Ice King. Overall, while both switches aim to provide a distinct typing experience, the Ice King Linear is the heavier option, and the Yunhai is the lighter, catering to different user preferences in actuation force and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Yunhai linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Ice King is the shorter option, providing a marginally quicker response time, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster actuation. In contrast, the Yunhai's travel distance, though only 0.1 mm longer, may offer a more substantial feel, benefiting those who prefer a switch with greater depth and a less abrupt keystroke. Therefore, while both switches cater to different preferences—responsiveness versus depth—the marginal difference in travel distance could influence users' overall typing experience.
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 TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 is characterized by a subdued sound profile, which gives it a dampened quality that is comfortable for both typing and gaming sessions without being overly intrusive. This makes it a favorable option for work environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai switch's sound profile is not specified, leading to uncertainty about its auditory characteristics. However, it's essential to remember that sound is influenced by various factors, including the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps, which could affect how both switches might sound in practice.
When it comes to the feel, the Ice King Linear offers an exceptional typing experience marked by descriptors such as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished. These qualities contribute to an extraordinarily smooth and fluid keypress, eliminating resistance during typing and providing a luxurious tactile experience. Typing on these switches feels effortless, as if your fingers are gliding over the keys. In contrast, no specific feel characteristics are listed for the Yunhai. This leaves a gap in understanding how it compares in tactile sensation, making it more challenging to evaluate for potential users who prioritize feel.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is a well-rounded option for someone seeking a smooth, quiet, and comfortable typing experience, with its subdued sound and a myriad of positive tactile descriptors. Its factory lubrication and nylon construction enhance its performance significantly. While the TTC Yunhai promises a unique typing experience, the lack of detailed information regarding its sound and feel makes it hard to draw a direct comparison. Ultimately, if you prioritize smoothness and a muted auditory presence, the Ice King is likely your safest bet, whereas the Yunhai might appeal to those curious about its other qualities, though further exploration would be necessary to make an informed choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, the decision between the Durock Ice King Linear and the TTC Yunhai linear switch ultimately hinges on your individual typing preferences and ergonomic needs. If you appreciate a medium bottom-out force and are looking for an exceptionally smooth and polished typing experience, the Ice King Linear is your best bet. Its silky feel, combined with the refined sound profile, makes it ideal for those who prefer a more controlled and substantial typing experience without overwhelming noise. On the other hand, if you're someone who enjoys an ultra-light key press and a deep, unique sound profile, then the TTC Yunhai would suit you better. Its light actuation force can provide a gentle and effortless typing feel, perfect for long typing sessions where you want to minimize fatigue. In essence, choose the Ice King Linear for a luxurious and polished experience, while the Yunhai is your go-to for a soft, light, and enjoyable typing sensation. Understanding these nuances will help you select the switch that best enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
