Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream offer distinct typing experiences. The Ice King Tactile is praised for its smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience that combines the best of both worlds with finesse. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switches offer a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile, making each keystroke feel substantial. While the Ice King Tactile is described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', and 'Polished', the NovelKeys Cream is labeled as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', and 'Invigorating'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences, but diving deeper into the specifics can help you determine the best switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
58g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
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 Cream switches both offer unique sound profiles and tactile feedback for keyboard enthusiasts. The Ice King Tactile features nylon top and bottom housings, creating a deep and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic's ability to absorb more sound. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream utilizes POM top and bottom housings, resulting in a pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Ice King Tactile and NovelKeys Cream switches offer a similar experience when it comes to sound profile and tactile feedback. The nylon top and bottom housings of the Ice King Tactile contribute to a duller and rounder sound upon keypress, while the POM top and bottom housings of the NovelKeys Cream provide a more muted and unique sound profile. Both switches offer a deeper sound compared to other switches on the market, appealing to users who prefer a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to typing feel, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall experience of a switch. The bottom housing material of the Ice King Tactile and the NovelKeys Cream impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on the keyboard. While the top housing material contributes more to the sound profile when releasing a key, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in these switches results in a well-rounded typing experience that caters to users looking for a deeper, more tactile feel with each keystroke.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall into the medium-heavy category. The Ice King Tactile has a slightly higher actuation force of 58 grams compared to the NovelKeys Cream's 55 grams, while the bottom out force of the Ice King Tactile is 68 grams, slightly lower than the 70 grams of the NovelKeys Cream. The difference in actuation force is minimal, so users can expect similar results in typing experience. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the NovelKeys Cream for longer typing sessions, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier actuation force of the Ice King Tactile for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Ice King Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the NovelKeys Cream's 4 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have a significant impact on the typing or gaming experience. The shorter travel distance of the Ice King Tactile may appeal to those seeking a faster response time, particularly gamers, while the longer travel distance of the NovelKeys Cream may provide a more satisfying depth for others. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing 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 Kailh NovelKeys Cream 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 Cream 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a subdued and dampened sound, providing a more subtle sound signature when compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch produces a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, with a deeper and more bass-heavy tone that can be described as clean and sharp. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the final sound output of each switch.
Moving on to feel, the Ice King Tactile switch is praised for its silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished feel, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance and a refined finish. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream switch is described as buttery, textured, and invigorating, providing a seamless, uniform typing sensation with noticeable friction and pronounced feedback. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Ice King Tactile focusing on smoothness and finesse, while the Cream switch leans towards a heavier and more tactile typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch cater to different preferences in tactile typing. The Ice King Tactile excels in blending smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, creating a uniquely satisfying typing experience, while the NovelKeys Cream offers a heftier and more invigorating tactile feel. Depending on whether you prefer a more subdued and smooth typing experience or a deeper and more tactile one, both switches can provide excellent results tailored to your individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches, you should consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a unique tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth feel, then the Ice King Tactile switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear typing experience with a deep sound profile and smooth, buttery feel, then the NovelKeys Cream switch would be more suitable for you. Both switches offer their own strengths in terms of sound and feel, so ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference and what kind of typing experience you find most enjoyable.
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