Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron Oil King offer unique experiences for avid typists and gamers alike. The Ice King Tactile switch is celebrated for its blend of creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, creating a satisfying typing experience that is both smooth and tactile. On the other hand, the Oil King linear switch stands out for its buttery smooth feel and a sound profile reminiscent of snapping a dark chocolate bar. Those seeking a refined and nuanced typing experience may lean towards the Ice King Tactile, while lovers of smooth and buttery keystrokes may favor the Oil King. 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
65g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron Oil King switches differ in terms of their design and sound profiles. The Ice King Tactile features a nylon top and bottom housing, which are known for creating a deep and fuller sound due to their soft and sound-absorbing properties. In comparison, the Oil King utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for the bottom housing, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. This difference in housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound output of the switches.
Despite the difference in housing materials, both the Ice King Tactile and the Oil King switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Ice King Tactile's nylon top and bottom housings create a duller and rounder sound, the Oil King's INK blend bottom housing produces a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is reminiscent of a clacky typing experience. These distinct sound profiles showcase the versatility and customization options available in the mechanical keyboard market, allowing users to select switches that best suit their typing preferences and needs.
In conclusion, the choice between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron Oil King switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. The nylon housing of the Ice King Tactile provides a deep and fuller sound, while the Oil King's INK blend bottom housing offers a unique and high-pitched clacky sound. While both switches may have different housing materials, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either option, depending on their individual sound and tactile preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, we can see 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 Oil King's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ice King Tactile requires 68 grams compared to the Oil King's 65 grams. Both switches offer a substantial typing experience with a solid push feel, making them suitable for users who prefer a heavier touch. When considering weight, users looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Oil King, while those seeking a heavier feel may opt for the Ice King Tactile. Ultimately, whether you choose the Ice King Tactile or the Oil King, you can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron Oil King linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem minor, but it can impact the overall typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Ice King Tactile may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Oil King linear switch may provide a more substantial and satisfying typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing style.
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 Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 sound profile, producing a dampened and subtle noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch provides a low-pitched and bassy sound, reminiscent of a rich dark chocolate bar snapping. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Ice King Tactile offering a quieter and more subdued experience compared to the deeper and richer sound of the Oil King.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is praised for its silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished feel, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance and a two-stage tactile sensation. Similarly, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished, offering a buttery smooth and effortless typing experience with a silky sensation and reduced friction. Both switches excel in providing a smooth and polished typing experience, enhancing the overall satisfaction of tactile and linear typing enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Tactile and Gateron Oil King switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in tactile and linear switch enthusiasts. The Ice King Tactile excels in providing a subdued sound profile with a silky and refined typing experience, while the Oil King linear switch offers a low-pitched and buttery sound with a creamy and smooth typing sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide excellent options to elevate your typing experience to new heights. Ultimately, whether you choose the Ice King Tactile or Oil King linear switch, you can expect a premium typing experience with similar results in terms of smoothness and satisfaction.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron Oil King linear switches, you should consider your preference for the tactile feedback and sound profile. If you are looking for a switch that offers a unique and satisfying tactile experience with smooth key presses and a pronounced bump, the Ice King Tactile would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Oil King linear switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and your typing style. Just remember to consider factors like bottom out force, sound, and feel when making your choice.
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