Durock Ice King Tactile vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the HMX KD200 offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Ice King Tactile is famous for its silky-smooth keystrokes complemented by a pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying feedback loop that balances nuance with touch—perfect for those who relish the sensation of each keystroke while typing. In contrast, the HMX KD200 stands out for its clacky auditory profile, making it the loudest option within the HMX Film switch family, which can enhance the typing experience for users who enjoy an unmistakable auditory feedback with every press. While the Ice King Tactile could be ideal for those who favor a more subdued and polished tactile experience, the KD200's pronounced sound and linear action may appeal to users who thrive on a more expressive and pronounced keypress. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the HMX KD200, it becomes evident that both switches employ nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality in material means that users can expect a similar typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to nylon's softer nature, it absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a rounder and less sharp auditory response when typing. Consequently, both switches will provide a consistent listening experience, making them appealing options for switch enthusiasts who prioritize acoustics.
The uniformity in housing materials—both the Ice King Tactile and the KD200 utilizing nylon—suggests that either switch will yield comparable tactile feedback and sound dynamics. In the context of switch performance, the bottom housing largely influences the bottom-out feel and sound, while the top housing plays a critical role in the reverb generated when releasing a key. Since both models share these nylon components, users can expect that the qualities of each housing will contribute similarly to the overall tactile and auditory sensations, providing a satisfying experience on both counts.
However, the fact that both switches are constructed from the same material does not negate potential differences in design or engineering that could affect other aspects, such as actuation point or travel distance. While the nylon construction ensures that the sound profiles are aligned, variances in manufacturing techniques or switch design could introduce subtle differences in overall performance. In essence, users can anticipate comparable results from both the Ice King Tactile and the HMX KD200 in terms of sound and feel, but they should also consider other factors that might distinguish their overall functionality.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, significant differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces, which influence the typing experience. The Ice King Tactile has a heavier actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a substantial feel while typing or gaming. In contrast, the KD200 offers a much lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, catering to those who appreciate a softer touch, allowing for prolonged typing comfort during extended sessions. As a result, if you desire a more pronounced tactile feedback and a stronger push feel, the Ice King Tactile would be the preferable choice. Conversely, if you favor ease and lightness for prolonged use, the KD200 would be more advantageous. In summary, the Ice King Tactile is the heavier option, while the KD200 is the lighter switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch is identical, with both switches featuring a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This similarity in travel distance means that users can expect a comparable tactile feel when pressing each key, resulting in a similar typing experience overall. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they will provide equally responsive feedback as you press down on them, making either option suitable for users who prioritize a consistent feel in their typing or gaming activities.
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 HMX KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a subdued auditory profile, providing a dampened sound when pressed. This makes it a great choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience without the noise often associated with mechanical switches. In contrast, the HMX KD200 linear switch is noted as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, suggesting that it produces a sharper, more pronounced sound upon keystroke. The difference in sound between these two switches can significantly affect the typing atmosphere, with the Ice King promoting a quieter, more discreet environment while the KD200 may resonate more, likely appealing to those who enjoy the acoustic feedback of their typing.
In terms of feel, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch stands out with its silky smoothness and frictionless nature, which minimizes resistance, leading to an effortless typing experience. The presence of a pronounced tactile bump adds to the satisfaction, distinguishing it as a truly tactile switch characterized by a stepped design. This feature enables typists to experience a distinct feedback during their keystroke, enhancing the overall tactile sensation. The KD200, on the other hand, does not have detailed descriptions of its feel, but as a linear switch, it is likely to provide a smooth, uninterrupted key press without any tactile feedback. This stark contrast means that typists who appreciate tactile bumps and refined sensations will gravitate towards the Ice King, while those who prefer an uninterrupted linear stroke may favor the KD200.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Tactile and HMX KD200 linear switches cater to different preferences in the typing experience, particularly in terms of sound and feel. The Ice King’s subdued auditory profile and silky, polished tactile feedback create a refined experience ideal for those who value subtlety and nuance in their switches. In contrast, the KD200 excels in providing a louder acoustic experience typical of linear switches, attracting users who enjoy the sharp sounds associated with their typing. Each switch offers distinct advantages that cater to different typing styles and environments, ultimately allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the HMX KD200 linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a tactile experience that is both smooth and satisfying, the Ice King Tactile is undoubtedly the way to go. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 68 grams, combined with its silky and polished feel, delivers a delightfully tactile sensation that enhances your typing experience while maintaining a subdued sound profile. This makes it ideal for those who enjoy tactile feedback without excessive noise, perfect for an office environment or shared spaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, quicker response in your keystrokes, the KD200's 50-gram bottom-out force offers a fast and effortless typing experience with its clackiest sound in the HMX Film family, making it a great choice for gamers and those who enjoy a more auditory feedback from their keystrokes. Ultimately, consider what aspects—tactility or linearity, sound levels, and actuation force—are most important to you, as both switches serve distinct purposes and cater to various preferences in the mechanical keyboard realm.
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