Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a top-tier tactile typing experience, two mechanical keyboard switches stand out: the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Purple. The Ice King Tactile is renowned for its blend of creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, delivering a unique and satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch is known for its tactile feedback but lacks specific standout features. If you're seeking a switch that offers a silky, frictionless, subdued, stepped, and polished typing experience, the Ice King Tactile may be the ideal 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
N/A
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Tactile and Outemu Purple switches both feature nylon bottom housings, which provide a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. However, the Ice King Tactile has a nylon top housing, while the Outemu Purple features a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Purple switch creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Ice King Tactile. The translucency of polycarbonate also allows for better visibility of RGB lighting effects.
Despite both switches having nylon bottom housings, the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing produces a different sound profile than the Outemu Purple's polycarbonate top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a more clear and resonant sound from the Purple switch, compared to the duller and rounder sound produced by the softer nylon top housing of the Ice King Tactile. This difference in material for the top housing can significantly impact the overall sound experience of typing on these switches. Additionally, the clear housing of the Purple switch adds an aesthetic benefit for those looking to showcase RGB lighting effects.
In terms of construction, the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials are split between the Ice King Tactile and Outemu Purple switches. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that despite similarities in the bottom housing material, the contrasting top housing materials of these switches will result in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences for users. Ultimately, the choice between the Ice King Tactile and Outemu Purple switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it's clear that the Ice King Tactile is the heavier of the two. With an actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, the Ice King Tactile offers a more substantial typing experience compared to the Outemu Purple. The Purple, on the other hand, has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel for extended use, the Outemu Purple may be the preferred choice. Conversely, those seeking a more robust and satisfying keystroke may opt for the Durock Ice King Tactile. In either case, understanding the actuation and bottom out forces of the switches is crucial in selecting the right switch for individual preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the Ice King Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Purple has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on the Ice King Tactile switch, the distance it travels from the top to the bottom is shorter than that of the Outemu Purple switch. This can result in a faster response time for the Ice King Tactile switch, making it a preferred choice for gamers who value quick reflexes. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Outemu Purple switch may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences 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 Purple 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 Durock Ice King Tactile switch is known for its subdued sound profile, offering a dampened sound when pressed, which provides a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound profile of the Outemu Purple tactile switch. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycap combination used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Ice King Tactile switch is praised for its silky and frictionless typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless feel when typing. Additionally, it is described as having a stepped feel, providing a mild tactile bump with some pre-travel and post-travel sensations. The switch is also known for its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and enhancing the overall typing experience. Unfortunately, there is no available information about the specific feel of the Outemu Purple tactile switch.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a unique tactile typing experience with its smoothness, pronounced bump, and polished finish that contribute to a satisfying typing feel. While information about the Outemu Purple tactile switch is limited, it is important to consider various factors such as personal preference, typing style, and desired sound and feel when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches may provide a similar experience in terms of sound and feel, but the Ice King Tactile stands out for its distinct tactile characteristics and smooth typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Ice King Tactile or the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a medium-heavy bottom out force and a uniquely satisfying tactile experience with a creamy smoothness and pronounced bump, the Ice King Tactile may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with an unknown bottom out force and are not as concerned about specific features such as sound and feel, the Purple could still be a viable option for you. It is important to consider all aspects of a switch before making a decision, so I encourage you to weigh these factors carefully based on your own typing needs and preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what you value most in your typing experience.
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