Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Dustproof Green offer distinct typing experiences. The Ice King Tactile is revered for its unparalleled smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience with finesse. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green switch from Outemu is known for its clicky feedback without any specific highlighted features. Choosing between these switches depends on personal preference and typing style - whether you prefer a smooth and tactile typing experience or a clicky feedback. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches lies in their composition. The Ice King Tactile features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Green switch boasts a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic material. While both top housings offer their own unique sound characteristics, the Ice King Tactile produces a duller and rounder sound compared to the Dustproof Green's more clear and resonant sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing of these switches, both the Ice King Tactile and the Dustproof Green utilize nylon material. As a classic switch housing material, nylon provides a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches offer a similar sound experience when it comes to the bottom housing. This consistency in material choice for the bottom housing ensures that typing on these switches elicits the same dull and round sound, maintaining a sense of familiarity for users who may switch between these two options.
It is important to note that when the top and bottom housings of a switch are made from different materials, the qualities of each housing material will be notably distinct. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing will impact the bottom-out sound and feel, emphasizing the importance of the material used for this component. Conversely, the top housing, which affects the sound when releasing a key, plays a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile of the switch. Therefore, while both the Ice King Tactile and the Dustproof Green switches may offer similar typing experiences due to their shared nylon bottom housings, the differences in their top housings ultimately lead to distinct sound profiles.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it is evident that the Ice King Tactile is lighter with an actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, while the Dustproof Green is heavier with an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. The Ice King Tactile offers a medium-heavy typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a balance between lightness and resistance. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green provides a heavy and more substantial typing feel, ideal for users who enjoy a stronger push sensation. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming purposes. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch is 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Dustproof Green has a longer travel distance compared to the Ice King Tactile. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have a noticeable impact on typing or gaming experience. A shorter travel distance like the Ice King Tactile may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while a longer travel distance like the Dustproof Green may be favored by those who prefer a more deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the 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 Outemu Dustproof Green 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 offers a subdued and dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Green switch is unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Ice King Tactile switch is known for its silky and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke with minimal resistance. Additionally, it has a stepped feel, providing a tactile experience with two distinct stages in the keystroke. The polished finish of the switch contributes to a sleek and refined typing feel. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Green switch is unspecified.
Overall, the Ice King Tactile switch excels in providing a unique and satisfying tactile typing experience with smoothness, a pronounced bump, and a polished finish for reduced friction. While the sound and feel of the Outemu Dustproof Green switch remain unknown, based on the information provided, users can expect a similar level of tactile feedback from both switches. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when considering whether to choose the Durock Ice King Tactile switch or the Outemu Dustproof Green switch, it is important to take into account your preference for typing force and tactile feedback. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique tactile experience with a smooth and frictionless feel, the Ice King Tactile switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a clicky typing experience, the Dustproof Green switch might be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing needs and preferences.
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