Durock Ice King Tactile vs. HMX Lucky
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the HMX Lucky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the multitude of mechanical keyboard switches available, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the HMX Lucky stand out for their distinctive characteristics and user experiences. The Ice King Tactile is a tactile switch designed for those who seek a rich tactile sensation combined with a smooth keystroke, making it perfect for typists who appreciate a pronounced bump paired with a luxurious feel—its silky, frictionless qualities elevate tactile typing to an art form. In contrast, the HMX Lucky, known for its softer and glittery nylon housing, offers a linear switch experience that feels bouncy yet deeply satisfying, appealing to users who prefer a quieter and seamless stroke with no tactile feedback. While the Ice King caters to those who revel in tactile engagement, the Lucky switches provide a light and neutral typing experience for those who appreciate speed and fluidity. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
58g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
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 double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Tactile and the HMX Lucky switches share identical housing materials, both utilizing nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality provides both switches with a similar sound profile. Because nylon is inherently softer and more absorptive than harder plastics, it helps to minimize the sharpness often associated with mechanical switches. As a result, both the Ice King Tactile and the HMX Lucky deliver a deeper and fuller sound when typing, characterized by a duller and rounder auditory experience. This consistent use of nylon contributes greatly to the overall acoustic and tactile sensations users encounter when they engage with these switches.
In terms of specific housing functions, while both the Ice King and Lucky switches display the same nylon material in their construct, the unique feel and sound experience can still vary slightly depending on the individual design and activation mechanisms tied to their internal components. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and the overall feel as a user presses down on the key. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in shaping the auditory experience when releasing the key. Therefore, even though housing materials are identical and share similar properties, the subtleties in design may create subtle differences in user experience.
Ultimately, users can expect consistent performance from both the Durock Ice King Tactile and the HMX Lucky switches, as their common nylon housing will result in comparable aural characteristics. The deeper and fuller sound profiles they both exhibit ensure a satisfying typing experience, supported by the material's ability to dampen noise effectively. While the individual nuances in feel and responsiveness may vary, those who value sound absorption and a rounder auditory experience will find both switches to be well-suited for their needs, providing a harmonious typing atmosphere regardless of the choice made.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch differ significantly in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Ice King has an actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Lucky switch offers a much lighter experience with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This distinction means that users who prefer a lighter switch, ideal for longer typing sessions and extended gaming, would gravitate towards the Lucky, while those seeking a more substantial feel with a stronger push would favor the Ice King. Consequently, the Ice King is categorized as the heavier switch, whereas the Lucky is the lighter option, setting the stage for different user preferences based on the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Lucky linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This indicates that the Ice King Tactile, with its shorter travel distance, may provide a quicker response, which is often preferred by gamers seeking faster engagement and activation. On the other hand, the Lucky's longer travel distance may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial and satisfying keypress, offering a more pronounced feedback that can feel less abrupt. Thus, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Ice King Tactile would be the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a deeper travel experience might favor the HMX Lucky.
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 Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
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 switches offer a subdued auditory experience, providing a dampened sound signature when pressed. This creates a typing environment that's relatively quiet compared to many other switches, allowing for a more discreet typing session. In contrast, the HMX Lucky linear switches produce a clacky sound, characterized by a sharp and snappy auditory feedback. This crisp and bright sound adds a layer of engagement to typing, suited for those who enjoy a more percussive click with each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on one’s preference for a more muted sound experience versus a lively, resonant one.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Tactile switches exemplify a silky and frictionless typing experience, allowing fingers to glide smoothly over the keys with minimal resistance. This is enhanced by their polished finish, which minimizes friction and contributes to a luxurious overall feel. Conversely, the HMX Lucky switches provide a distinct bouncy sensation, giving users a noticeable rebound when pressing down on the keys. They share a silky and polished touch with the Ice King, ensuring a refined typing experience as well. However, the bounciness of the Lucky switches offers a lively, spring-like feedback, contrasting with the smoother, more stable feel of the Ice King.
In conclusion, both the Durock Ice King Tactile and HMX Lucky switches present unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Ice King excels with its subdued sound profile and silky, frictionless feel, making it ideal for those who favor a quiet yet refined experience. On the other hand, the Lucky switches shine with their clacky sound and bouncy feedback, appealing to those who enjoy a more vivid and responsive typing sensation. Depending on your sound and tactile preferences, both switches can deliver a highly satisfying experience, though they cater to distinct typing styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the HMX Lucky linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you lean towards a more tactile experience that marries smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, the Ice King Tactile is ideal for you. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 68 grams feels substantial and rewarding, making it perfect for those who appreciate a definitive response while typing. The subdued sound profile adds to its sophisticated appeal, making it suitable for both work and gaming environments where you don’t want to disturb those around you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight, airy typing experience, the Lucky linear switch would be a better fit. With its 43 grams of actuation force, you'll find typing to feel noticeably effortless and responsive, complemented by a clackier sound that enhances the auditory feedback of each keystroke. Its bouncy feel might give you the lively feedback you desire, especially if you engage in fast-paced gaming or prefer a more casual typing vibe. Ultimately, identify what type of experience resonates with you most, and choose accordingly to enhance your overall keyboard enjoyment.
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