Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Keygeek Keylin stand out for their distinct typing experiences, each catering to different preferences. The Ice King Tactile is renowned for its exquisite blend of creamy smoothness and a pronounced tactile bump, elevating tactile typing to an almost artistic level. This results in a uniquely satisfying experience that allows typists to feel every keystroke with finesse, making it ideal for those who enjoy a pronounced feedback during their typing sessions. On the other hand, the Keylin linear switch offers a more minimalist experience, emphasizing smoothness and rich acoustics without tactile feedback, which makes it perfect for gamers or typists who prefer a quieter keypress and fluid keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on your preference for tactile feedback versus linear smoothness. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Tactile and the Keygeek Keylin share an important similarity in their housing materials, as both feature nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon, known for its classic application in switch construction, contributes to a unique acoustic profile. As a softer plastic, it absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in deeper and fuller auditory feedback when typing. This quality is prevalent in both switches, ensuring a notably duller and rounder sound that typists might find appealing. The consistency in using nylon for both switches reinforces the idea that users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound characteristics, regardless of which switch they choose.
Delving into the design specifics, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings as well. This consistency contributes to the overall tactile experience, given that the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel during key presses. The shared nylon composition means that users will likely experience similar resistance and feedback as they engage with either switch. The switches' bottom housings will support a rich sound profile together with that plush feel associated with nylon, driving home the notion that typists can enjoy a satisfying tactile experience in both cases.
However, despite these similarities, the impact of each housing type might vary slightly in performance due to the individual designs of the Ice King Tactile and Keylin switches. For example, the overall shape and mechanism of the switch stem can also play a significant role, leading to potential differences in how a typist ultimately experiences the feel of each switch. Nonetheless, as long as the nylon material remains constant, users should expect a consistent quality in sound and tactile feedback from both switches, highlighting the effectiveness of nylon in creating an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight their unique typing experiences. The Ice King Tactile features a heavier actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, offering a more substantial feel that those who prefer a stronger push might appreciate. In contrast, the Keylin switch presents a much lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who favor a lighter touch, which can facilitate prolonged typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. As such, the Ice King Tactile is positioned as the heavier option, while the Keylin is the lighter choice, catering to different preferences in typing experience. Therefore, while both switches serve distinct purposes, the Durock Ice King Tactile is suited for those who enjoy a more tactile and resistant feel, while the Keygeek Keylin offers an easier, more streamlined keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, we see a slight difference between the two. The Ice King Tactile has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Keylin boasts a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Therefore, the Keylin switch has the longer travel distance, making it potentially better for those who prefer a more pronounced keypress experience. In contrast, the Ice King’s shorter 3.5 mm travel may appeal to gamers or users who favor quicker response times. While 3.5 mm and 3.6 mm are relatively close, this distinction could impact the feel of typing or gaming, giving the Ice King Tactile a slightly snappier response.
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 Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin 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
The sound produced by the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is characterized as subdued, offering a dampened, subtle auditory experience when pressed. This sound profile makes it more suitable for environments where quieter typing is desirable, while still providing an audible feedback that informs the user of key engagement. Conversely, the sound qualities of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch remain unknown in this context. It's important to remember that the overall sound can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used, which means that both switches may still yield similar acoustic experiences depending on their paired hardware.
When it comes to feel, the Ice King Tactile excels with a variety of descriptors that highlight its extraordinarily smooth typing experience, including silky, frictionless, and polished qualities. This combination allows for a typing action that minimizes resistance and enhances fluidity. The presence of a distinct yet mild tactile bump provides satisfying feedback at the actuation point without being overwhelming. The Keylin's feel is not explicitly detailed, leaving a gap in direct comparison. However, linear switches typically offer a less tactile response, focusing instead on a smooth and consistent keystroke without the tactile bump inherent in tactile switches.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is celebrated for its subdued sound profile and an impressive range of feel attributes, including silky smoothness and a pleasant tactile response. The Keygeek Keylin linear switch, while lacking specific sound and feel details, has been designed to provide a premium typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, typists looking for tactile feedback will find the Ice King Tactile rewarding, while those who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke might gravitate towards the linear characteristics of the Keylin. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you value tactile feedback or a streamlined keystroke experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Durock Ice King Tactile switches and the Keygeek Keylin linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use your keyboard. If you enjoy a tactile response that emphasizes a defined bump and provides substantial feedback with a medium-heavy force (68 grams), the Ice King Tactile will elevate your typing experience with its silky, frictionless feel and subdued sound profile. These attributes make it an excellent option for those who appreciate tactile feedback while typing or gaming, particularly in quieter settings where a softer sound is preferred. Conversely, if you favor a lighter, smoother keystroke with less tactile feedback, the Keylin linear switch—with its 48 grams of force—delivers a delightful typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness. This makes the Keylin ideal for fast typists or gamers who desire rapid, uninterrupted key presses without the distraction of a tactile bump. In short, your selection should align with whether you prefer the message conveyed by tactile feedback or the fluid ease of a linear switch, all of which can significantly enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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