Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Tactile to the Outemu Dustproof Brown mechanical keyboard switches, one can see the stark differences in their descriptions. The Ice King Tactile is renowned for its blend of creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, creating a truly satisfying typing experience. Its categorized attributes of 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', and 'Polished' highlight its unique qualities. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown lacks a distinct description but is still a tactile switch. Choosing the Ice King Tactile may appeal to those seeking a refined and luxurious tactile typing experience, while the Dustproof Brown may be an option for those looking for a more straightforward option. 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
45g
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
Partial box
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-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 Dustproof Brown, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with nylon bottom housing. Both switches are likely to provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel due to the shared material used for the bottom housing.
However, where the two switches differ significantly is in their choice of material for the top housing. The Ice King Tactile features a nylon top housing, while the Dustproof Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Ice King Tactile contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its bottom housing. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Brown creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in material results in a contrasting sound experience when typing on switches with these top housings.
Overall, the choice between the Ice King Tactile and the Dustproof Brown would depend on the user's preference for sound profile and feel. The Ice King Tactile would provide a more consistent and duller sound profile throughout, thanks to its nylon top and bottom housings. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown offers a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, providing a different typing experience from the Ice King Tactile. Ultimately, the decision would come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel when using these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Ice King Tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 58 grams compared to the Dustproof Brown's 45 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Ice King Tactile at 68 grams and the Dustproof Brown at 65 grams. The Ice King Tactile can provide a more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation force, which may be preferred by those who like a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown's lighter actuation force may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Dustproof Brown switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Ice King Tactile switch. The 0.5 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing experience. The Ice King Tactile switch will provide a slightly shorter travel distance, making it more suitable for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown switch offers a longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress feeling. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
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 Dustproof Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Ice King Tactile switch is known for its subdued sound, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature when pressed. On the other hand, information about the sound of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is unavailable. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
As for the feel, the Ice King Tactile switch offers a silky and frictionless typing experience, characterized by smoothness and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, it has a stepped feel, providing a two-stage tactile sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The polished finish of the Ice King Tactile switch contributes to a sleek and refined typing experience. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is not available.
Considering the available information, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch stands out for its unique blend of smoothness, pronounced tactile bump, and satisfying tactile experience. While details about the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch are lacking, if one is seeking a switch with similar qualities to the Ice King Tactile, they may expect a potentially different but comparable tactile and sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of typing experience and sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switches, it ultimately comes down to your preference for the typing experience. If you value a unique and satisfying tactile feel with a pronounced bump and creamy smoothness, then the Ice King Tactile would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force without any specific standout features in terms of sound or feel, the Dustproof Brown could be a solid choice for you. Consider what characteristics are most important to you in a switch and choose accordingly. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and needs.
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