Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Blue Jade 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 Outemu Blue Jade offer unique experiences for users. The Ice King Tactile stands out for its smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience that blends finesse and precision. On the other hand, the Blue Jade is a clicky switch that offers a different type of feedback, though it lacks specific standout features. If you prefer a silky and frictionless typing experience with a subtle tactile feel, the Ice King Tactile may be the right choice for you. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Blue Jade, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This choice of material allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon's softer properties absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The similarities in housing materials between the two switches suggest that typists can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of acoustics and feel.
However, while both switches share the same nylon housing materials, the specific design and construction of each switch may result in subtle differences in the overall typing experience. The way in which the top and bottom housings are structured may impact the sound and feel of typing on each switch. For instance, the bottom housing of a switch tends to have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing may play a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. These nuances in housing design could lead to variations in tactile feedback and sound characteristics between the Ice King Tactile and Blue Jade switches.
Ultimately, when considering the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Blue Jade, typists can expect a similar level of sound absorption and a deeper, fuller sound profile due to the utilization of nylon for both top and bottom housings. While there may be slight differences in the typing experience based on the specific design of each switch, the overall sound and feel should align closely between the two switches. Typists looking for a tactile typing experience with a deep, round sound profile may find both the Ice King Tactile and Blue Jade switches to be suitable options.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 58 grams compared to the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch with 50 grams. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Ice King Tactile at 68 grams and the Blue Jade at 65 grams. The Ice King Tactile would provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation force, while the Blue Jade would be slightly lighter and require less force to trigger keystrokes. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback for users who prefer a moderate resistance level. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Blue Jade switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Blue Jade being slightly longer. Gamers may opt for the Ice King Tactile for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those seeking a more substantial key press may prefer the Outemu Blue Jade. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10 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
The Ice King Tactile switch offers a subdued sound profile, providing a dampened and subtle auditory experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Blue Jade switch is unknown. When it comes to feel, the Ice King Tactile switch is praised for its silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished attributes, resulting in an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with a refined finish. Unfortunately, the feel of the Blue Jade switch is not described. In conclusion, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a unique tactile experience and subdued sound, the Ice King Tactile would be a solid choice. As for the Blue Jade switch, due to the lack of information provided, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, if you enjoy a clicky switch with an unknown feel quality, the Blue Jade switch might still be worth considering for its clicky sound profile. Ultimately, based on the available information, it is likely that the Ice King Tactile switch would provide a more comprehensive and satisfying typing experience compared to the Blue Jade switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Blue Jade, consider the specific qualities of each switch to determine which one suits your preferences. If you are looking for a nuanced and smooth tactile typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump, then the Ice King Tactile with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 68 grams may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and enjoy a more audible typing experience, the Outemu Blue Jade could be the perfect match for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal preference for tactile feedback, sound levels, and typing feel. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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