Durock Ice King Tactile vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Tactile and the SP-Star Meteor Orange mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that both offer tactile feedback but with unique characteristics. The Ice King Tactile is renowned for its creamy smoothness paired with a pronounced tactile bump, resulting in a satisfying typing experience that balances smoothness and tactility seamlessly. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches stand out for their gentle and soft tactility, coupled with a neutral sound profile that appeals to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. While the Ice King Tactile is described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', 'Polished', the Meteor Orange is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Polished'. These general descriptions provide an overview of the key features of each switch; 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Tactile and SP-Star Meteor Orange both utilize nylon as the material for their switch housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer plastic composition allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This common material choice between the two switches ensures that users can expect similar acoustic characteristics when typing on either switch, making them ideal options for those looking for a specific sound experience.
While both the Ice King Tactile and Meteor Orange feature nylon top housing, which contributes significantly to the sound profile when releasing a key, they also differ in their respective bottom housing materials. The nylon bottom housing of each switch plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is fully pressed down. This contrast highlights how subtle variations in the housing materials can affect the overall typing experience, with each switch offering a unique tactile sensation based on the combination of top and bottom housing materials used.
In comparing the housing materials of the Ice King Tactile and Meteor Orange switches, it becomes evident that their nylon compositions contribute to a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. Despite the differences in top and bottom housing materials between the two switches, users can still expect a consistent level of depth and fullness in sound due to the shared nylon construction. The nuanced impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing feel further emphasizes the importance of housing material choice in creating a customized typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Tactile has a slightly heavier actuation force of 58 grams compared to the SP-Star Meteor Orange, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Meteor Orange has a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams, whereas the Ice King Tactile has a bottom out force of 68 grams. This makes the Ice King Tactile a better choice for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Meteor Orange would be a better option for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing feel and pressure.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is 3.5 mm, while the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Meteor Orange switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ice King Tactile switch. The difference may seem minimal, but it can impact the overall feel and experience of typing or gaming on a keyboard. Generally, a shorter travel distance is favored by gamers for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for a switch with a longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual user.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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 is described as producing a subdued sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch has a neutral sound profile with a thocky quality, resulting in a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound of the switches.
Moving on to the feel, the Ice King Tactile switch is known for its silky and frictionless typing experience, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless feel while typing. Additionally, it is described as having a stepped characteristic, offering a mild tactile feedback with distinct pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. The Meteor Orange switch, on the other hand, is characterized by its mild typing experience and polished finish, delivering a gentle and refined typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Ice King Tactile switch stands out for its creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, creating a uniquely satisfying tactile experience with remarkable finesse. In contrast, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch offers a soft and seductive tactility alongside a neutral sound profile and a gentle typing experience. Both switches provide a pleasant typing experience, with the Ice King Tactile leaning towards a more pronounced tactile feel while the Meteor Orange offers a softer touch. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can deliver a rewarding typing experience for newcomers looking to explore the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switches, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a uniquely satisfying tactile experience with a pronounced bump, the Ice King Tactile may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a gentle, soft tactility with a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you are looking for and what characteristics align most closely with your preferences.
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