Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Jerrzi Orange
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Jerrzi Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Jerrzi Orange mechanical keyboard switches, you are met with a decision between two distinct typing experiences. The Ice King Tactile offers a smooth and satisfying tactile bump, creating a refined typing experience that blends smoothness with tactility. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange provides a lightweight and clacky linear feel, perfect for those who enjoy a responsive and vibrant typing experience. Each switch has its own set of unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences and typing styles. 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
58g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Jerrzi Orange lies in the top housing. The Ice King Tactile features a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Jerrzi Orange has a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This distinction in material creates a noticeable difference in the overall sound and typing experience of the switches. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, making their bottom-out sound and feel quite similar.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice of material for the top housing also plays a significant role. The translucent nature of polycarbonate used in the Jerrzi Orange's top housing allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it a visually appealing option for those looking to customize their keyboard setup. On the other hand, the opaque nylon top housing of the Ice King Tactile may not offer the same level of customization when it comes to lighting effects. This difference in appearance can influence the overall design and style of the keyboard, catering to different preferences among users.
While the top housing material of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Jerrzi Orange provides contrasting sound profiles, their shared nylon bottom housing offers a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials allows users to feel the impact of each material depending on whether they are pressing down on a key or letting go. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile, aesthetics, and customization options, highlighting the importance of housing materials in the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, it is clear that the Ice King Tactile is the heavier option with an actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams. In contrast, the Jerrzi Orange is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force that is unspecified. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Ice King Tactile for its heavier forces, while those who prefer a lighter typing feel may opt for the Jerrzi Orange. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Jerrzi Orange linear switch with a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. The difference of 0.2 mm in travel distance may not be significant for most users, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper keypress, the Jerrzi Orange switch might be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Ice King Tactile 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 Tactile for $4.20.
The Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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
When it comes to sound, both the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Jerrzi Orange switches are described as producing a subdued noise when pressed. This means that while they are not completely silent, they offer a more subtle sound signature compared to many other switches on the market. However, the Orange switches also add a clacky element to their sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy noise that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Ice King Tactile is praised for offering a silky and frictionless typing experience. These switches are designed to be exceptionally smooth, with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, they are described as having a stepped feel, providing a more nuanced tactile experience with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switches are known for feeling feathery and easy-to-press. They require minimal exertion from your fingers, reducing fatigue during extended typing sessions and providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. Again, the decision between the two will ultimately depend on individual preference and typing style.
In conclusion, both the Durock Ice King Tactile and Jerrzi Orange switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Ice King Tactile provides a smooth and nuanced tactile typing experience with a subdued sound profile, while the Jerrzi Orange switches deliver a lively and responsive typing experience with a hint of clackiness in the sound. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a more tactile and smooth typing experience or a lighter and easy-to-press key feel with a touch of sharpness in sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Jerrzi Orange switches, consider your preference for typing experience and sound. If you value a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and smooth, polished feel, the Ice King Tactile may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky linear switch with a lighter touch and audible feedback, the Jerrzi Orange switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific qualities that align with your typing style and preferences.
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