Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Phoenix stand out as top choices for users seeking a premium typing experience. The Ice King Tactile offers a blend of smoothness and a pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing sensation with remarkable finesse. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix features a unique under-skirt click mechanism, creating a distinct and crystalline sound profile that sets it apart from other clicky switches. Both switches have their own unique qualities: the Ice King Tactile is categorized as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', and 'Polished', while the Phoenix is categorized as 'Crunchy' and 'Polished'. When choosing between these switches, consider whether you prioritize a creamy smooth tactile experience or a distinctive click sound and feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-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 Phoenix, we can see that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Ice King Tactile features a nylon top housing, which absorbs sound and creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Phoenix uses a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, both switches have bottom housings made of nylon, which results in a similar dull and round sound profile. The different top housing materials offer users distinct typing experiences, with the Ice King Tactile providing a softer, more muffled sound compared to the crisp and clear sound of the Phoenix.
The use of different materials for the top and bottom housings of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Phoenix affects not only the sound profile but also the overall typing feel of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing, while the polycarbonate and nylon top housings create contrasting sound profiles. The Ice King Tactile's softer nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller sound profile, while the Phoenix's polycarbonate top housing produces a clearer and more resonant sound. This difference in sound between the top and bottom housings provides users with a unique typing experience based on the switch they choose.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Phoenix ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of typing sound and feel. While both switches offer a combination of nylon and polycarbonate housing materials, the resulting sound profiles are distinct. The Ice King Tactile provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon top and bottom housings, while the Phoenix offers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate housing. Whether a user prefers a muffled and softer typing experience or a clearer and sharper sound profile, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch have some noticeable differences. The Ice King Tactile has a slightly lighter actuation force of 58 grams compared to the Phoenix's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ice King Tactile requires a heavier 68 grams compared to the Phoenix's 62 grams. The Ice King Tactile provides a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Phoenix offers a medium feel. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback, but the Ice King Tactile will provide a slightly heavier typing experience overall. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Ice King Tactile for extended typing sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Phoenix for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, it comes down to individual preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches have slightly shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm. The Ice King Tactile has a slightly longer travel distance, offering a bit more depth when pressed, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Phoenix clicky switch with its slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for travel distance and tactile 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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 experience, producing a dampened sound when pressed. It provides a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Phoenix clicky switch is described as crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. The Phoenix switch delivers a unique and characteristic sound profile that stands out among clicky switches.
Moving on to the feel, the Ice King Tactile switch offers a silky and frictionless typing experience, enhancing smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, it has a stepped feel, providing a two-stage tactile sensation that distinguishes it from other switches. The Phoenix switch, like the Ice King Tactile, is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches prioritize smoothness and premium tactile feedback for a satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch excels in providing a creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, creating a uniquely satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, offering a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile. While both switches may offer different sound and feel experiences, they both prioritize quality and premium tactile feedback for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between the Ice King Tactile and Phoenix switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when making a decision between the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a uniquely satisfying tactile experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a creamy smoothness, and a pronounced tactile bump, then the Ice King Tactile would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force, a sparkling and crystalline type feel and sound profile, and a crunchy clicky sound, then the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch would be more suitable for you. Remember to consider factors such as sound, feel, and overall typing experience to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Ice King Tactile and the Phoenix will depend on what tactile or clicky typing experience you are seeking.
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