Durock Ice King Tactile vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the TKC Kiwi mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Ice King Tactile is renowned for its creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Kiwi switches feature a medium to medium-strong bump with a snappy sound profile, enhancing the immersion of typing. While the Ice King Tactile is celebrated for its symphony of touch and silky feel, the Kiwi switches stand out for their factory lubed smoothness and effortless 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
58g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and TKC Kiwi switches offer distinct qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience. The Ice King Tactile's nylon top and bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the material's softer nature which absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with such housings. In contrast, the Kiwi's UHWMPE top and bottom housings offer a brighter sound signature, producing resonant clacks that add a unique element to typing on switches with these materials.
While both the Ice King Tactile and TKC Kiwi switches feature different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they each bring distinct characteristics to the typing experience. The split qualities of the housing materials mean that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This differentiation in housing materials allows for a diverse range of sound profiles and tactile feedback in these switches, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Ice King Tactile and TKC Kiwi switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. While the Ice King Tactile's nylon housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound with a duller and rounder tone, the Kiwi's UHWMPE housing offers a brighter and more resonant sound signature. Both switches provide a unique typing experience, showcasing the impact that housing materials can have on the overall feel and sound of a mechanical keyboard. Whether opting for the classic sound of nylon or the newer bright sound profile of UHWMPE, users are sure to enjoy a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force compared to the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, with 58 grams versus 43 grams respectively, making the Ice King Tactile slightly heavier. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Ice King Tactile at 68 grams and the Kiwi at 67 grams, making them both fall under the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may lean towards the TKC Kiwi, while those looking for a stronger push feel may opt for the Durock Ice King Tactile. In terms of weight, both switches offer a similar typing experience when it comes to bottoming out, as the difference in bottom out force is minimal. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it is clear that the Ice King Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm while the Kiwi has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Ice King Tactile provides a slightly shallower feel when pressing down on the key, which may be preferred by those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi offers a bit more depth in its travel distance, which could be favored by those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and the typing experience it provides.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 Tactile switch offers a subdued sound profile, producing a dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone without being too loud or distracting. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on individual preferences and setup.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Ice King Tactile switch is described as silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and fluid typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump. Similarly, the TKC Kiwi switch offers a stepped, accented, and polished feel, delivering a mild tactile bump with smooth key travel and reduced friction. Both switches aim to optimize typing comfort and performance, catering to users who prefer a tactile typing experience without compromising on smoothness.
Overall, both the Durock Ice King Tactile and TKC Kiwi tactile switches offer unique qualities that can elevate the typing experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike. While the Ice King Tactile focuses on a creamy smooth feel with a pronounced tactile bump, the TKC Kiwi provides a medium-strong bump with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, users can expect a tactile switch that blends smoothness, tactility, and a satisfying sound profile for a truly immersive typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the TKC Kiwi tactile switches, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a unique tactile experience with a pronounced bump and creamy smoothness, opt for the Ice King Tactile. This switch provides a satisfying typing experience blending the best of both worlds with finesse. On the other hand, if you seek a switch with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press and a snappy sound profile, the Kiwi tactile switch may be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a more subdued sound profile, the Ice King Tactile would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the Kiwi tactile switch is the way to go. In terms of feel, if you prefer a silky, frictionless, stepped, or polished typing experience, the Ice King Tactile offers options tailored for smoother key presses. Meanwhile, the Kiwi tactile switch also provides a stepped, accented, and polished feel for those seeking a unique tactile experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches should align with your preferences for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing feel.
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