Durock Ice King Tactile vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the KTT Peach offer different experiences for typing enthusiasts. The Ice King Tactile is praised for its blend of creamy smoothness and a pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Peach boasts a syrupy smooth feel and a deep, thocky sound, characteristic of a linear switch. While the Ice King Tactile offers a nuanced and polished tactile feel, the Peach switch provides a more neutral and mild typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to individual preferences. 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
53g
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
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the KTT Peach, one significant difference is in the top housing material used. The Ice King Tactile features a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a deep and full sound profile. In contrast, the Peach utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This distinction in materials has a direct impact on the sound produced by each switch, with the Ice King Tactile offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the Peach's more clear and resonant sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Ice King Tactile and the KTT Peach make use of nylon material. This similarity in housing material results in a shared quality of providing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, contributing to a duller and rounder sound experience for both switches. Despite the differences in their top housing materials, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that users can expect similar sound characteristics when typing on the Ice King Tactile and the KTT Peach.
In terms of overall typing experience, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in determining the sound profile of a switch. The Ice King Tactile's combination of a nylon top and bottom housing results in a consistent deep and full sound, while the KTT Peach's mix of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing creates a contrasting sharp and clear sound profile. Whether one prefers a duller and rounder sound or a sharper and crisper sound can influence the decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the housing materials are integral in shaping the tactile and acoustical feedback of each switch, offering a unique typing experience based on the user's preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, the Ice King Tactile is heavier with an actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, while the Peach is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. The Ice King Tactile provides a more substantial typing experience due to its medium-heavy forces, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Peach offers a lighter touch, making it a better option for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. Both switches provide different levels of feedback and tactile response, catering to the preferences of users seeking either a heavier or lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired feel during use.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the KTT Peach linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ice King Tactile offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a favorite among gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the Peach switch provides a bit more depth and may feel more substantial to those who prefer a longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference. Whether you opt for the shorter or longer travel distance, you can expect similarly high-quality results from both switches.
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 KTT Peach comes in at $2.91 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 offers a subdued sound, producing a dampened sound when pressed. This results in a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the KTT Peach switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various purposes. Both switches offer unique sound qualities, with the Ice King Tactile being more subdued and the Peach switch providing a deep, thocky sound.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is characterized by its silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished qualities. These descriptors signify an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with a refined finish, offering reduced friction and fluid key travel. Conversely, the KTT Peach switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. Each switch offers distinct tactile sensations, with the Ice King Tactile focusing on smoothness and refined tactility, while the Peach switch offers a more approachable feel.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the KTT Peach switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Ice King Tactile excels in providing a subdued sound with a symphony of touch through its smooth and pronounced tactile bump, while the Peach switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a syrupy smooth typing experience. The Ice King Tactile boasts silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished feel characteristics, while the Peach switch offers a mild and gentle typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer exceptional qualities that cater to different typing preferences and experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the KTT Peach switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference. If you are looking for a medium-heavy tactile switch with a creamy smooth typing experience and a pronounced tactile bump, then the Ice King Tactile would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch with a syrupy smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile, then the KTT Peach switch would be more suited to your taste. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing experiences.
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