Durock Ice King Tactile vs. KTT MoonRosa
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the KTT MoonRosa switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Tactile and the KTT MoonRosa mechanical keyboard switches, one can see distinctive qualities in each that attract different types of users. The Ice King Tactile offers a luxurious typing experience with its smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, striking a perfect balance between tactility and smooth key presses. On the other hand, the MoonRosa switch boasts a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile, perfect for those looking for a gentle and easy-to-press switch. While these general descriptions provide a starting point for choosing between the two switches, diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help users make a more informed decision based on their individual preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
58g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial 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
22mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Tactile and KTT MoonRosa both use unique materials for their housing components. The Ice King Tactile features a nylon top and bottom housing, which creates a deep and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This results in a duller and rounder sound that can be satisfying for typing. On the other hand, the MoonRosa utilizes a POM top and bottom housing, producing a pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and more muted compared to the Ice King Tactile.
While both switches have distinct housing materials, they share similarities in their overall sound profiles. The Ice King Tactile and MoonRosa both elicit a deeper sound due to their housing materials, with the Ice King Tactile having a more rounded sound profile from the nylon housings, while the MoonRosa offers a more muted sound from the POM housings. Additionally, both switches provide a unique typing experience that may appeal to different preferences based on the sound and feel each housing material provides.
In terms of construction, the differences in top and bottom housing materials can impact the overall typing experience of the switch. The qualities of the housing material in the bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material will have a more significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This split between top and bottom housing qualities allows for a diverse typing experience that can cater to a variety of preferences based on the desired sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT MoonRosa switch. The Ice King Tactile requires 58 grams of force to actuate and 68 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the MoonRosa switch only needs 37 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the MoonRosa switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may prefer the Ice King Tactile switch. The actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and comfort level for the user, so it's essential to consider these factors when choosing between the two switches. Ultimately, selecting the right switch weight depends on individual preferences and typing habits.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Ice King Tactile and the KTT MoonRosa switches have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom will be identical. As a result, users can expect similar tactile feedback and typing experience from both switches. The equal travel distance ensures that typing on either switch will provide consistent results in terms of keypress feel and actuation. Therefore, whether using the Ice King Tactile or the MoonRosa switch, users can expect a comparable typing experience due to their matching travel distances.
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 MoonRosa comes in at $4.88 per 10 switches.
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 Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a subdued sound that is not completely silent but provides a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa switch features a low-pitched sound that is bass-heavy and mellow, giving it a different auditory experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Ice King Tactile is described as providing a silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished typing experience. This means that users can expect exceptionally smooth key presses with minimal resistance and a refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the MoonRosa switch offers a mild and easy-to-press typing experience that is gentle on the fingers and requires minimal force to activate. These qualities make typing effortless and comfortable, reducing fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the KTT MoonRosa switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ice King Tactile provides a creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, creating a uniquely satisfying tactile experience, while the MoonRosa switch offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different characteristics. Ultimately, users can expect high-quality performance from both switches, whether they prefer a more tactile or linear typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the KTT MoonRosa switches, consider your preference for bottom out force and tactile typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a pronounced tactile bump along with a creamy smooth typing experience, the Ice King Tactile may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the MoonRosa switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the feel and sound qualities that align with your typing style and preferences.
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