Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Durock Koala can be a tough one. The Ice King Tactile offers a unique blend of creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, creating a satisfying typing experience that excels in finesse. On the other hand, the Koala strikes a balance by providing a punchy keystroke with a stepped tactility that doesn't overwhelm. While the Ice King is categorized as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', and 'Subdued', the Koala boasts characteristics such as being 'Polished', 'Low-pitched', and 'Stiff'. Both switches offer their own set of advantages, catering to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics to help you choose the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
58g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Durock Koala both have their own unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition, while the Koala's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound because of its stiffer nature. The contrasting properties of these materials result in distinct auditory experiences for users, with the nylon offering a rounder sound and the polycarbonate delivering a more resonant tone.
Despite having different top housings, both the Ice King Tactile and the Koala share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar deep and full sound profile for both switches. This commonality in material ensures that users can expect consistent sound characteristics from the bottom-out sound and feel of each switch. While the top housing may vary between the two switches, the shared nylon bottom housing provides a familiar typing experience in terms of sound and tactile feedback.
The choice of housing material for a switch can have a significant impact on its overall performance and aesthetics. The use of nylon in the Ice King Tactile and Koala switches serves as a classic option that absorbs sound and creates a duller, rounder sound profile. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Koala offers a clearer and more distinct sound due to its stiff composition. These differences in housing materials allow users to customize their typing experience based on their preferences for sound, feel, and visual appeal, with each material bringing its own unique characteristics to the table.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Durock Koala tactile switches, it is evident that the Ice King Tactile has a slightly lighter actuation force of 58 grams compared to the Koala, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Ice King Tactile at 68 grams and the Koala at 67 grams. This makes the Ice King Tactile slightly lighter overall, which may appeal to users looking for a more nimble typing experience. On the other hand, the Koala provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force for an optimal typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Durock Koala has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ice King Tactile. The difference may seem small, but it can impact the typing or gaming experience for some users. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times may lean towards the Ice King Tactile, while others who enjoy a deeper key press may choose the Koala. Ultimately, both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, and users should consider their personal preferences when selecting between the two.
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 Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 Ice King Tactile switch offers a subdued typing experience, producing a dampened sound when pressed. This creates a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Koala switch is characterized by a low-pitched tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound profile. Additionally, it is described as having a neutral sound, suitable for various typing intents and purposes. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Tactile switch is known for its silky and frictionless typing experience. It offers smooth key presses with minimal resistance, creating a polished and refined feel. Additionally, the switch is described as stepped, providing a mild tactile bump with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages. Similarly, the Koala switch also boasts a polished and refined typing experience, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. It is characterized as accented, offering a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Furthermore, the Koala switch is noted for its stiffness, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches.
In conclusion, both the Durock Ice King Tactile and Durock Koala tactile switches provide unique and satisfying tactile experiences with their own set of qualities. While the Ice King Tactile switch offers a more subdued sound and a silky, frictionless feel, the Koala switch provides a low-pitched, neutral sound and a polished feel with a medium level of tactility. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer exceptional typing experiences that cater to different user preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the Ice King Tactile and Koala switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Durock Koala tactile switches, consider the type of tactile experience you prefer. If you are looking for a switch that offers a smooth and refined typing experience with a subtle tactile bump, the Ice King Tactile may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more pronounced tactile bump that provides a bit of resistance without being overly loud, the Koala could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and the type of typing experience you are aiming to achieve. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose wisely based on what suits your typing style best.
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