Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Red 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 Red offer distinct experiences for users. The Ice King Tactile is celebrated for its smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience that balances both elements with finesse. On the other hand, the Outemu Red is a linear switch that lacks a tactile bump, offering a consistent keystroke without any interruptions. While the Ice King Tactile is praised for its unique blend of smoothness and tactility, the Outemu Red excels in providing a straightforward and consistent typing experience. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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
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 Red switches, we see that the Ice King Tactile features a nylon top housing while the Outemu Red has a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Ice King Tactile contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Red creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic material. The aesthetic difference is also notable, as polycarbonate is transparent and ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, whereas nylon is opaque.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Red switches feature a nylon bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, as nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The similarities in the bottom housing materials of these switches suggest that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. However, the split between the top and bottom housing materials in switches with different materials can lead to a unique combination of qualities: the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Red switches ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding sound profile, feel, and aesthetics. The nylon top housing of the Ice King Tactile offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Red provides a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of sound. Whether one prefers the rounder sound of nylon or the clearer sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Red linear switch. The Ice King Tactile requires 58 grams of force to actuate and 68 grams to bottom out, giving it a medium-heavy feel. In contrast, the Outemu Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Outemu Red switch, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Ice King Tactile switch for a stronger push sensation. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to the varying preferences of keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Red switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ice King Tactile switch. The 0.5 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing experience. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Ice King Tactile switch with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke may opt for the Outemu Red switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer different typing experiences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 Red 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 is known for its subdued sound profile, offering a dampened yet satisfying click when pressed. In comparison, the Outemu Red linear switch does not have specific sound descriptors available, but linear switches like the Red tend to produce a quieter typing experience compared to tactile switches. However, the actual sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch boasts a silky and frictionless typing experience, with a notable tactile bump that enhances the overall smoothness of each key press. Additionally, this switch is described as stepped, providing a unique two-stage typing sensation. On the other hand, details about the feel of the Outemu Red linear switch are not provided. Linear switches like the Red typically offer a straightforward key press without any tactile feedback, making them ideal for fast typists who prefer a consistent and smooth keystroke.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch stands out for its exceptional tactile typing experience, blending smoothness with a pronounced bump for a satisfying touch. Although specific details about the Outemu Red linear switch are not available, it can be expected to provide a quieter and smoother typing experience compared to tactile switches. Depending on personal preferences for typing feel and sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, trying out both switches firsthand will provide the clearest understanding of how each performs in practice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Red switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force, a pronounced tactile bump, and a uniquely satisfying tactile experience, the Ice King Tactile may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a linear typing experience without any tactile feedback, the Red switch could be more suitable for your needs. Consider factors such as sound, with the Ice King Tactile offering a subdued sound, and feel, with the Ice King Tactile providing a silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished typing experience. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and enhances your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
