Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Cherry MX Silent Red stand out as popular choices for different reasons. The Ice King Tactile offers a unique blend of smoothness and a pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience that merges the best of both worlds with finesse. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red maintains the classic characteristics of the MX Red but operates silently, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments while still offering a satisfying typing experience. The Ice King Tactile is described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', and 'Polished', while the MX Silent Red is categorized as 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, so the choice between them will depend on individual preferences and requirements; 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Cherry MX Silent Red are both made of nylon, which is a classic switch housing material known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer compared to other plastics, allowing it to absorb more sound and produce a duller and rounder sound when typing. This results in a more pleasing auditory experience for users of both switches.
While both switches share the same housing material, the Ice King Tactile and the Cherry MX Silent Red differ in their overall design and construction. The Ice King Tactile may have a unique design that impacts the typing experience differently compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red, even though they both use nylon housing. The tactile feedback and actuation force of the switches may vary, leading to a distinct typing feel between the two switches despite their similar housing materials.
In terms of sound and feel, the bottom and top housings of a switch play distinct roles. The bottom housing of a switch, made of nylon in the case of both the Ice King Tactile and Cherry MX Silent Red, influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing, also made of nylon, affects the sound when a key is released. Despite any differences in design or construction, the nylon housing of both switches will ultimately result in a similar tactile and acoustic experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that the Ice King Tactile is the heavier option. The Ice King Tactile has an actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the MX Silent Red, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, others who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Ice King Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red switch, we see that the Ice King Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the MX Silent Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for quicker response times. However, the Ice King Tactile may provide a slightly snappier feel due to its shorter travel distance, while the MX Silent Red may offer a bit more depth to the keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for responsiveness versus a more substantial key feel.
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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 offers a subdued typing experience with a dampened sound when pressed. While not completely silent, it provides a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch produces a muted and thocky sound profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches aim to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, but the Ice King Tactile leans towards a more subdued sound, while the MX Silent Red provides a deeper and richer tone.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Tactile switch is known for its silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished typing experience. These qualities enhance the overall smoothness of the keystroke, offering minimal resistance and a refined finish. On the contrary, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, implying noticeable friction during typing. While the Ice King Tactile aims for a seamless and effortless typing experience, the MX Silent Red provides a tactile feedback with a slightly textured feel. Both switches offer unique sensations in typing, catering to different preferences depending on the user's tactile sensitivity.
Taking into consideration the subjective qualities of sound and feel between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches, it's important to note that each switch provides a distinct typing experience. The Ice King Tactile excels in offering a symphony of touch with its creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, while the MX Silent Red distinguishes itself with its silent operation and slightly heftier feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference in sound profile and tactile feedback. However, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with both switches, albeit with varying characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you prioritize a uniquely satisfying tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump, opt for the Ice King Tactile. On the other hand, if you value a quieter typing experience with a slightly heftier feel, the MX Silent Red might be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you prefer a more subdued sound profile, the Ice King Tactile offers a dampened sound when pressed, while the MX Silent Red provides a muted and thocky sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your individual preferences for feel and sound when typing.
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