Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Jerrzi Lotus V2
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Jerrzi Lotus V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Jerrzi Lotus V2 mechanical keyboard switches, one immediately notices the stark differences in their design and functionality. The Ice King Tactile is praised for its ability to elevate tactile typing into an art form, offering a creamy smoothness paired with a pronounced tactile bump for a truly satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Lotus V2 from Jerrzi is a linear switch that does not boast any specific standout features. The Ice King Tactile is ideal for those who appreciate a tactile typing experience that is silky, frictionless, subdued, stepped, and polished. On the other hand, the Lotus V2 may appeal to users who prefer a simpler, straightforward linear typing experience without any additional frills. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Jerrzi Lotus V2 both contribute to a deep and full sound profile, but they do so in unique ways. The Ice King Tactile's nylon top and bottom housing create a dull and round sound due to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Lotus V2's POM top and bottom housing produce a deeper and more muted sound profile that is incredibly pleasing. While both switches offer a similar full sound experience, the Ice King Tactile may have a slightly duller sound compared to the Lotus V2's more muted sound.
In terms of material composition, the Ice King Tactile and the Lotus V2 differ with the Ice King Tactile featuring nylon housings and the Lotus V2 featuring POM housings. Nylon is known for its softer properties that absorb sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. On the other hand, POM housings offer a unique sound experience that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. While both housing materials contribute to a pleasing sound profile, the choice between nylon and POM may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
When considering the impact of the different housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housings of the switches. The bottom housing of a switch has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This means that the choice between the Ice King Tactile and the Lotus V2 depends on whether you prefer a slightly duller sound with nylon housing or a more muted sound experience with POM housing. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 58 grams compared to the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch with 45 grams, making the Ice King Tactile heavier to press down initially. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ice King Tactile requires 68 grams to fully press down, whereas the Lotus V2 force requirement is unknown. The Ice King Tactile provides a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Lotus V2 offers a lighter actuation force, though the bottom out force remains a mystery. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended periods of typing or gaming, the Lotus V2 may be the preferred choice. Conversely, those looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Ice King Tactile. Ultimately, the weight of the actuation and bottom out forces should be considered based on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for a faster response time, especially gamers. The Ice King Tactile offers a slightly deeper keypress compared to the Lotus V2, which may be preferred by those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Lotus V2 has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus V2 for $3.59.
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 and dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle and less noisy typing experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Lotus V2 linear switch is currently unavailable. Remember that the sound produced by a switch can also be affected by variables such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Ice King Tactile is praised for its silky and frictionless typing experience, offering smooth key presses with minimal resistance and a polished finish that enhances overall typing comfort. Additionally, the switch provides a stepped tactile feel with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages, further refining the typing experience. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the feel of the Lotus V2 linear switch at this time.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch stands out for its unique blend of creamy smoothness, pronounced tactile bump, and satisfying typing experience. Its subdued sound profile, silky feel, and polished finish make it a popular choice among tactile switch enthusiasts. While information on the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch is currently limited, it's worth noting that similar results may be achieved with both switches in terms of sound and feel based on their respective characteristics. Ultimately, the decision between the Ice King Tactile and Lotus V2 switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a uniquely satisfying tactile experience, the Durock Ice King Tactile would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch without a specified bottom out force and are not concerned about tactile feedback, the Jerrzi Lotus V2 might be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are seeking. Both switches offer their own distinct qualities and it's important to choose the one that aligns best with your typing style.
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