Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron New North Pole V2 stand out as top contenders in their respective categories. The Ice King Tactile offers a unique blend of creamy smoothness and a pronounced tactile bump, creating a satisfying tactile typing experience that appeals to those looking for a balance between smoothness and tactility. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 from Gateron provides a crisp typing experience without a rubber dampener, while still maintaining the hallmark feature of frictionless typing feel that users have come to love. While the Ice King Tactile is described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', and 'Polished', the New North Pole V2 is categorized as 'Polished', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless'. Each switch offers its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, 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
50g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron New North Pole V2, one can observe that the Ice King Tactile features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. The nylon housing of the Ice King Tactile is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the New North Pole V2 provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, given its stiffer plastic composition. Aesthetically, the clear polycarbonate housing of the New North Pole V2 allows for RGB lighting effects, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the switch.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of both switches play a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of typing. While the nylon housing of the Ice King Tactile produces a duller and rounder sound, the polycarbonate housing of the New North Pole V2 creates a more clear and resonant sound. The choice between these two materials ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different tastes and preferences in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback.
In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housing materials of a switch contribute to different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing material influences the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding how each housing material affects the overall typing experience can help in selecting the switch that best suits individual preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, whether choosing the Ice King Tactile with nylon housing or the New North Pole V2 with polycarbonate housing, users can expect a unique and satisfying typing experience tailored to their needs.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch. The Ice King Tactile requires 58 grams of force to actuate and 68 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 only needs 50 grams to actuate and 62.5 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the New North Pole V2 for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier and more substantial typing experience provided by the Ice King Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ice King Tactile may be more suitable for those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers, while the New North Pole V2 may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences and functionality, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. Ultimately, the shorter travel distance of the Ice King Tactile may result in quicker typing speeds, while the longer travel distance of the New North Pole V2 may offer a more deliberate key press for those who prefer a more pronounced 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 Gateron New North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 offers a subdued typing experience that is not completely silent but provides a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, information about the sound of the New North Pole V2 switch is not available. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Ice King Tactile is known for its silky smooth typing experience, characterized by a refined finish and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. It also features a stepped tactile feel, providing a two-stage keystroke sensation. In comparison, the New North Pole V2 switch offers a polished and creamy typing feel, with reduced friction and a smooth key travel. Additionally, it boasts a frictionless experience, ensuring effortless keystrokes with minimal resistance.
Considering all the available information, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Ice King Tactile excels in providing a pronounced tactile bump with a silky smooth typing feel, while the New North Pole V2 focuses on a crisper typing experience with a creamy and frictionless sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If you enjoy a smooth and tactile typing experience, the Ice King Tactile may be the right choice for you, while those looking for a crisp and creamy feel may prefer the New North Pole V2. Regardless of your choice, both switches are designed to deliver a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that provides a uniquely satisfying typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock Ice King Tactile would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a crisper typing experience, the Gateron New North Pole V2 would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a pronounced tactile bump and smoothness (Ice King Tactile) or a frictionless typing feel and seamless glide (New North Pole V2). Consider your typing style and preferences before making your choice between these two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches.
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