Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Milk Blue present distinctive options to consider. The Ice King Tactile is celebrated for its ability to elevate tactile typing to an art form, offering a blend of creamy smoothness and a pronounced tactile bump that creates a uniquely satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Blue is a clicky switch that doesn't boast any specific standout features, falling under a more traditional category. If you prefer a smooth, subdued tactile experience, the Ice King Tactile may be the ideal choice for you. In contrast, the Milk Blue offers a classic clicky typing feel that some users find satisfying. 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
N/A
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Milk Blue, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This shared material means that typing on both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either of these switches.
On the other hand, the top housing of the Ice King Tactile is made of nylon, while the Milk Blue features a polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Milk Blue results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Ice King Tactile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that prioritize a sharper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a suitable choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing material for a switch can have a significant impact on the typing experience. While both the bottom housings of the Ice King Tactile and the Milk Blue are made of nylon, the top housings differ, with the Ice King Tactile featuring nylon and the Milk Blue utilizing polycarbonate. This contrast results in distinct sound profiles, with the Ice King Tactile offering a deeper and fuller sound, while the Milk Blue produces a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and aesthetic considerations such as the use of RGB lighting.
Weight
In comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, we see that the Ice King Tactile has a slightly heavier actuation force of 58 grams compared to the Milk Blue's 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Ice King is also heavier at 68 grams, while the Milk Blue's bottom out force is unavailable. This makes the Ice King Tactile a medium-heavy switch in terms of force needed to press keys, while the Milk Blue's force is unknown. The weight of a switch can affect typing experience, with lighter switches allowing for longer typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more substantial feel. In this case, those looking for a slightly heavier typing experience may prefer the Ice King Tactile, while those looking for a lighter option may find the Milk Blue to be a suitable choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue switch, we see that the Ice King Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Milk Blue has a longer travel distance of 4mm. The difference may seem slight, but it can have a noticeable impact on the typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Ice King Tactile can result in quicker response times, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for a faster key press. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Milk Blue switch provides a more pronounced tactile feedback and can be preferred by those who enjoy a more satisfying key press with a deeper travel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Milk Blue 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a subdued typing experience, producing a dampened sound when pressed. This results in a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches, adding a level of sophistication to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue switch's sound qualities are unknown, but it is safe to assume that it may produce a more audible click sound due to its clicky nature.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Tactile switch is praised for its silky and frictionless typing experience, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless keystroke. The switch also offers a stepped feel, with two distinct stages during the keystroke, enhancing tactile feedback. Additionally, the polished finish of the Ice King Tactile switch contributes to a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In comparison, the specific feel characteristics of the Outemu Milk Blue switch are not provided, but being a clicky switch, it may offer a more tactile and responsive typing experience with a pronounced click feedback.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch stands out for its unique blend of smoothness and tactility, creating a satisfying and sophisticated typing experience. While the specific sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Milk Blue switch are unknown, it is important to consider your personal preferences when choosing between the two. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing styles, so it is essential to try them out to determine which one best suits your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Milk Blue switches, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a smooth and satisfying tactile feedback with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Ice King Tactile may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a lighter bottom out force and a more pronounced click sound, the Milk Blue switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the specific features that matter most to you. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so choose wisely based on your preferences.
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