Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Cherry MX Purple RGB emerge as two compelling options, each offering a unique tactile experience for typists and gamers alike. The Ice King Tactile stands out with its silky smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, providing a rare combination that creates a harmoniously satisfying typing environment. Its frictionless performance allows for fluid keystrokes, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate both comfort and feedback in their typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches offer a refined tactile experience characterized by a medium-strength bump, designed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiasts. They provide a balanced feel that caters to a wide range of preferences, making them a versatile option for both casual typing and extended gaming sessions. Each switch has its own strengths: the Ice King Tactile excels in delivering a high level of tactile satisfaction, whereas the MX Purple RGB balances performance and comfort. 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
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB switches share identical materials for both their top and bottom housings, both of which are made of nylon. This common choice contributes to the overall acoustic profile experienced during typing, as nylon is recognized for its capabilities to produce a deeper and fuller sound. The inherent softness of nylon results in a material that can absorb sound waves effectively, leading to a more muted and rounder auditory experience compared to harder plastics. Thus, users of either switch are likely to enjoy a similar typing sound, characterized by its subdued tonal qualities, which can enhance the overall user experience whether in a quiet office or a bustling gaming environment.
While the nylon material is consistent in both the Ice King Tactile and MX Purple RGB, the overall performance can slightly differ based on their unique designs and mechanisms. For instance, while the materials create a similar acoustic environment, the feel of the switches may vary due to differences in actuation points or force profiles. The bottom housing contributes significantly to the feel and sound upon bottoming out the switch, while the top housing plays a more substantial role in the auditory feedback upon key release. Therefore, even though the material is the same, the specific design elements unique to each switch can shape user preferences and feedback modulation.
In summary, the use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings in the Durock Ice King Tactile and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches primes them for similar sound characteristics. Keyboard enthusiasts looking for deep, resonant feedback will likely find satisfaction across both models due to their shared housing materials. However, the distinctions in design and key mechanisms can affect tactile feedback and overall typing sensation, making user experience markedly different despite the similarity in acoustic properties derived from the nylon construction.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Ice King Tactile has an actuation force of 58 grams, while the MX Purple RGB features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions might find the Cherry MX Purple RGB more comfortable. In terms of bottom out force, the Ice King Tactile has a bottom out force of 68 grams, which provides a more substantial feel when bottoming out compared to the MX Purple RGB, for which the bottom out force is unknown. The heavier Ice King Tactile offers a more robust typing experience, making it suitable for users who favor a stronger push feel. Overall, those seeking a lighter keyboard will gravitate towards the Cherry MX Purple RGB, while those who appreciate a heavier, more tactile feedback will likely prefer the Durock Ice King Tactile.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distance means that the Ice King Tactile switch offers a slightly more responsive feel, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker actuation. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB, with its greater travel distance, provides a more substantial tactile experience that some users may prefer for its deeper feedback during typing. While both switches fall into the tactile category, the shorter travel of the Ice King Tactile might feel more abrupt and fast, whereas the longer travel of the Cherry MX Purple RGB could appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress. Therefore, for responsiveness, the Ice King Tactile switch is the preferable choice, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB is better suited for those who appreciate a more classic, deeper 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 Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 switch is characterized by its subdued acoustic profile, producing a dampened sound when pressed. This means it doesn’t generate excessive noise, making it a suitable choice for environments where quiet operation is preferred. Conversely, the sound profile of the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is not explicitly defined, which leaves some aspects of its auditory characteristics unknown. However, it’s important to remember that the overall sound produced by either switch can vary significantly depending on factors such as the choice of keyboard case and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Durock Ice King Tactile excels with an impressive blend of tactile sensations. Users can expect a silky smooth typing experience with minimal resistance, creating a frictionless action that enhances fluidity with each keystroke. The stepped tactile feedback adds a layer of complexity, providing discernible stages during typing that some may find particularly satisfying. The switch is also polished, further enhancing the smoothness and refinement of the overall typing experience. The specifics of the feel for the Cherry MX Purple RGB are less articulated, leaving an incomplete picture. As such, it’s difficult to provide a direct comparison for this switch regarding tactile feel.
In conclusion, while both the Durock Ice King Tactile and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches serve distinct purposes within the tactile switch category, the Ice King Tactile stands out with its combination of subdued sound and a multifaceted tactile experience. The specific sound signature of the MX Purple RGB switch remains unclear, making it a less defined option. However, if you seek a smooth, creamy, and nuanced tactile typing experience with noticeable feedback, the Ice King Tactile switch is likely the superior choice. For those who prioritize sound damping alongside an enjoyable tactile feel, the Ice King Tactile promises a uniquely satisfying experience, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB may offer a more generalized tactile performance that could meet various user preferences, depending on personal taste.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch largely depends on your typing preferences and use cases. If you value a tactile experience that combines fluidity with a pronounced bump, the Ice King Tactile would be an excellent choice. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 68 grams offers a satisfying feedback that enhances your typing rhythm, making it particularly suitable for those who enjoy a tactile yet smooth feel when typing or gaming. The subdued sound profile also ensures that your typing is less intrusive, perfect for shared spaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter tactile response with a more refined bump, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch may catch your attention. Though we do lack specific details on its bottom-out force, it’s designed for a responsive feel that is developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiasts, which may provide a more tailored experience for those looking into customization and RGB lighting options. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preferences in tactile feedback, sound, and the specific typing experience you desire.
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