Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Kailh Plum are excellent options to consider. The Ice King Tactile is renowned for its smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, offering a satisfying typing experience that seamlessly blends the best of both worlds. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum stands out for its weightiness without a significant tactile bump, a unique characteristic that sets it apart from other tactile switches. While the Ice King Tactile is described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', and 'Polished', the Plum is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Stepped'. Both switches have their strengths and unique qualities to offer, so choosing between them ultimately depends on your personal 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Overall, the Durock Ice King Tactile and Kailh Plum both utilize nylon as their bottom housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the top housing material of the Ice King Tactile is nylon, while the Plum utilizes polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to nylon. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Kailh Plum allows for a visually appealing clear housing that is perfect for showcasing RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile's all-nylon construction may not offer the same level of visual flair but still provides a classic and durable housing material. When it comes to sound, the differences between the two switch housings become more apparent. The polycarbonate top housing of the Plum produces a crisper and resonant sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Ice King Tactile creates a deeper and fuller sound that is softer and more absorbent.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Ice King Tactile and Kailh Plum housing materials comes down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics. If you prefer a switch with a deeper and more absorbent sound profile, the Ice King Tactile with nylon housing would be the better option. On the other hand, if you want a switch with a sharper and crisper sound, the Plum with polycarbonate housing would be more suitable. Both switches offer reliable and durable housing materials that contribute to their overall performance and feel when typing.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has an actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In comparison, the Kailh Plum tactile switch has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, also falling within the medium-heavy category. While both switches have a similar bottom out force, the Ice King Tactile switch is lighter in terms of actuation force. This means that typing on the Ice King Tactile switch may require less force to start a keystroke compared to the Kailh Plum switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter initial actuation force for longer typing sessions or a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers seeking faster response times may prefer the Ice King Tactile switch with its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Plum switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress 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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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 with a dampened sound that adds a level of elegance to your keystrokes. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile that is pleasing and suitable for a wide range of users. Both switches offer enjoyable sound profiles, but the Ice King Tactile may appeal more to those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Tactile switch is known for its silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished attributes, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump. In comparison, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a milder typing experience with a subtle tactile bump and stepped feel, making it approachable to most users. While both switches offer a smooth typing experience, the Ice King Tactile may appeal more to those who crave a more intense tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch excels in providing a luxurious and tactile typing experience with a subdued sound profile, making it a top choice for users who value finesse and elegance in their mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a unique feel with a neutral sound profile that caters to a wider audience. Ultimately, both switches deliver satisfying typing experiences, ensuring that users can achieve similar results in terms of quality and performance regardless of the particular qualities they prioritize.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a unique and satisfying typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump, the Durock Ice King Tactile would be an excellent choice for you. This switch provides a smooth and frictionless typing feel, elevating your typing to an art form. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that feels hefty but doesn't have a huge tactile bump, the Kailh Plum would be a great option. It offers a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. Ultimately, your decision between the Durock Ice King Tactile and Kailh Plum should be based on whether you prioritize a pronounced tactile bump and silky typing experience or a weighty feel with a more subtle tactile feedback. Consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style.
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