Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry mechanical keyboard switches, we see two unique options for tactile typing enthusiasts. The Ice King Tactile offers a creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, providing a symphony of touch that creates a uniquely satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry features a sharp tactile bump, making it ideal for those who prefer a more intense typing feel. While the Ice King Tactile is described as 'silky', 'frictionless', 'subdued', 'stepped', and 'polished', the NovelKeys Blueberry is characterized as 'snappy', 'buttery', 'low-pitched', 'textured', 'resonant', 'invigorating', and 'stiff'. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that may appeal 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
55g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile and typing experience. The Ice King Tactile features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deep and full sound that is relatively duller and rounder due to its soft plastic properties. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry utilizes a POM top housing that creates an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile with deeper tones that are relatively more subdued. While both materials offer their own sound profiles, users can expect a different typing experience with each switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Ice King Tactile's nylon bottom housing and the NovelKeys Blueberry's POM bottom housing contribute to the overall typing experience by influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Ice King Tactile emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to the top housing, while the POM bottom housing of the Blueberry enhances the deep and muted sound characteristic of the switch. Despite using different materials for the bottom housing, both switches maintain a cohesive typing experience that is tailored to the preferences of the user in terms of sound and feel.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches may offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences, they ultimately work together to create a cohesive switch design. The differing characteristics of nylon and POM materials in the top and bottom housings of each switch contribute to a unique typing experience that is tailored to the preferences of the user. Whether it be the deep and full sound of nylon in the Ice King Tactile or the pleasing and unique sound of POM in the Blueberry, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that showcases the impact of housing materials on overall switch performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it is evident that the Ice King Tactile is lighter in both categories compared to the Blueberry. The Ice King Tactile has an actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, while the NovelKeys Blueberry has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. The Ice King Tactile falls into the medium-heavy category, providing a good balance of feedback, whereas the Blueberry is on the heavier side, offering a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, with the Ice King Tactile being lighter and the NovelKeys Blueberry being heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it is clear that the Ice King has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Blueberry has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Ice King may appeal to gamers looking for quick response times, while the longer travel distance of the Blueberry may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, with both options offering unique advantages.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 is known for its subdued sound profile, offering a more dampened and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches provide a low-pitched and resonant sound, with a clean and sharp sound profile that adds an immersive auditory experience to typing sessions. Depending on your preference for sound, the Ice King Tactile offers a quieter typing experience, while the Blueberry switches deliver a deeper and more resonant sound.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Tactile switches are described as silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. These switches provide minimal resistance, smooth key travel, and a sophisticated tactile feel. Conversely, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches are labeled as snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff, giving a more responsive and firm typing sensation with noticeable tactile feedback. If you prefer a smoother and more refined typing experience, the Ice King Tactile switches would be the better choice, while the Blueberry switches cater to those who enjoy a more lively and responsive typing feel.
Overall, both the Durock Ice King Tactile switches and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer unique and satisfying tactile typing experiences, each with its own set of subjective qualities. If you are looking for a tactile switch with a quieter sound and smoother feel, the Ice King Tactile switches would be a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharper sound profile and more responsive typing experience, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switches, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a creamy smooth tactile experience, the Ice King Tactile might be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharper tactile bump with a heavier bottom out force and a snappy typing feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry might be more suited to your preferences. Consider the sound and feel descriptions of each switch to determine which one aligns more closely with what you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what feels best to you during typing sessions.
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