Durock Ice King Tactile vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Tactile and the KTT Matcha mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that both offer unique and appealing qualities for tactile typing enthusiasts. The Ice King Tactile boasts a creamy smoothness combined with a pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying tactile experience that seamlessly blends finesse with touch. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha presents a snappy tactility and a clean bottom-out sound, making it a favorite choice for those who appreciate a comfortable typing sensation. While the Ice King Tactile is described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', and 'Polished', the Matcha is characterized as 'Stepped', 'Snappy', 'Accented', 'Clacky', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle'. With these general pointers in mind, it's essential to delve deeper into the unique characteristics of each switch to determine which one best suits your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
58g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the KTT Matcha provide distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Ice King Tactile's nylon top and bottom housing absorb more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Matcha's polycarbonate top and bottom housing create a sharper and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. This difference in housing materials gives each switch a unique typing experience tailored to the user's preference for sound and feel.
Despite their differences, the Ice King Tactile and the KTT Matcha both offer benefits based on their housing materials. The nylon top and bottom housing of the Ice King Tactile provide a consistent and dull sound profile that some users may prefer for a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Matcha offer a clear and resonant sound profile that appeals to users looking for a sharper and more defined typing sound. Both switches cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose the housing material that best suits their typing style and preferences.
While the housing materials of the Ice King Tactile and the KTT Matcha have unique characteristics, they ultimately serve the same purpose of enhancing the typing experience. The use of nylon and polycarbonate in the top and bottom housing of these switches affects the sound and feel generated during typing, offering users a wide range of options to choose from. Whether users prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile or a sharper and crisper sound profile, both switches deliver quality performance based on their housing materials. Ultimately, the decision between the Ice King Tactile and the KTT Matcha comes down to personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The Ice King Tactile features a higher actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, providing a medium to heavy typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Matcha has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, offering a much lighter typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the KTT Matcha, as it allows for easier typing over extended periods, ideal for work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more robust typing experience may lean towards the Ice King Tactile for a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the KTT Matcha tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ice King Tactile offers a slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Matcha tactile switch provides a more substantial depth when pressed, which may be preferred by those who like a more pronounced feedback when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for shorter or longer travel distances. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, but the Ice King Tactile will provide a quicker response, while the Matcha tactile switch will offer a deeper key press sensation.
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 KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 is known for its subdued sound, providing a dampened and more subtle sound signature when compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Matcha switch is characterized by a clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed, giving a crisp and bright auditory experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be impacted by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Tactile switch offers a silky and frictionless typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing a smooth keystroke. Additionally, it features a stepped design, offering a mild tactile feel with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. The polished finish adds to the sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Matcha switch is described as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. It provides a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming and requires little exertion for key presses, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, creating a uniquely satisfying tactile experience with a subdued sound and silky feel. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha switch provides a comfortable and snappy tactility with a clacky sound and a variety of feel descriptors like stepped, snappy, and feathery. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer quality tactile typing experiences, albeit with slightly different characteristics. Ultimately, both switches provide excellent options for tactile typing enthusiasts.
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. The Ice King Tactile offers a smooth typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump, perfect for those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a snappy, clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch could be the one for you. The Matcha provides a comfortable tactility with a sharp sound when pressed, making it a great option for those who enjoy a lighter typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the Ice King Tactile and the Matcha will come down to your personal preference for bottom out force and typing experience.
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