Durock Ice King Linear vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, both of which are linear switches. The Ice King Linear is praised for its silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, making it a great choice for those who prefer a frictionless and subdued feel while typing. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° by Gateron stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise, perfect for those looking for a silent 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, it is evident that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, making them similar in terms of sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic quality that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housing, creating a unique tactile experience for users.
However, the top housing materials of these switches differ, with the Ice King Linear using nylon and the Zero Degree 0° using polycarbonate. The nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Zero Degree 0° creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. This distinction in top housing materials results in a significant difference in the overall sound and typing experience between the two switches.
When considering the split in housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch, it is essential to note that each housing material contributes distinct qualities to the overall sound profile and tactile feel. The bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. In this case, the use of nylon for the bottom housing in both the Ice King Linear and the Zero Degree 0° ensures a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile, while the variation in top housing materials between nylon and polycarbonate creates a noticeable difference in sound characteristics between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch, it is evident that the Ice King Linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Zero Degree 0° switch with 45 grams. However, the Ice King Linear switch also has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the Zero Degree 0° switch is unknown. In terms of weight, the Ice King Linear switch would be considered the heavier option, which may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch being lighter may be preferred by users looking for a switch that allows for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their faster response times. The difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, with the Ice King being slightly shorter than the Zero Degree. For those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Zero Degree may be the preferred choice. However, for most users, the difference in travel distance may not be noticeable, and both switches will provide a similar typing experience. 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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 Ice King Linear switch offers a subdued sound when pressed, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Zero Degree 0° switch is not specified in the information provided, so it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Ice King Linear switch is praised for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience, offering smooth key travel and minimal resistance. These qualities indicate that typing on the Ice King Linear switch will provide a luxurious and effortless feel. The Zero Degree 0° switch's feel characteristics are not detailed in the provided information, making it challenging to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Overall, both the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches are designed to offer a smooth and premium typing experience. While the Ice King Linear switch is specifically highlighted for its smoothness and factory lube for a silky typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° switch emphasizes its innovative design for silent typing and stability. If you are looking for a switch that prioritizes smoothness, both options are likely to provide similar results, although the unique features of each switch may cater to different preferences in terms of typing sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a medium bottom out force and a silky smooth typing experience with factory lube, the Ice King Linear is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are looking for a unique self-padding design that delivers unparalleled smoothness and noise reduction, the Zero Degree 0° may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound, and the specific features that each switch offers. Happy typing!
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