Durock Ice King Tactile vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect tactile mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the SP-Star Polaris Purple are two popular options to consider. The Ice King Tactile is praised for its smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, offering a satisfying typing experience that blends the best of both worlds with finesse. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is known for its exhilarating tactile bump and snappy sound profile. Both switches have their unique qualities, with the Ice King Tactile being described as silky, frictionless, subdued, stepped, and polished, while the Polaris Purple is categorized as neutral, mild, and polished. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that may cater to different preferences and needs. 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
67g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles based on the difference in their material composition. The Ice King Tactile's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, attributed to its relatively stiffer plastic composition that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. These differences in sound quality are further influenced by the translucency of the polycarbonate housing, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting.
Although both switches utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom components, the qualities brought by each material are distinct and contribute to the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Ice King Tactile enhances the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a deeper and fuller typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple delivers a sharper and crisper sound profile, emphasizing clarity and resonance during key presses. The impact of these housing materials on the overall sound and feel highlights the importance of material composition in switch design.
Overall, while the Durock Ice King Tactile and the SP-Star Polaris Purple offer contrasting sound profiles due to their housing materials, both switches excel in providing a unique typing experience. The softer nylon housing of the Ice King Tactile creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate housing of the Polaris Purple produces a sharper and crisper sound. Despite their differences, both switches demonstrate the significance of housing materials in sound quality and typing feel, showcasing the diversity and innovation present in mechanical switch design.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the Ice King Tactile is lighter in actuation force at 58 grams compared to the Polaris Purple, which has an unknown actuation force. Both switches have a similar bottom out force of 67-68 grams, making them fall into the medium-heavy category. The actuation force is crucial for determining the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure needed to press a key all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Ice King Tactile, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Polaris Purple. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, we see a slight difference in the distances traveled. The Ice King Tactile has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Polaris Purple has a travel distance of 4 mm, slightly longer. The shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the Ice King Tactile may appeal to those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Polaris Purple may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and desired key 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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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 sound profile, providing a more dampened and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch is described as having a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. The Polaris Purple switch is said to be snappier in sound compared to the Ice King Tactile.
Moving on to feel, the Ice King Tactile switch is praised for its silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished feel. These qualities contribute to an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with minimized resistance. In contrast, the Polaris Purple switch is described as having a mild and polished feel, offering a more gentle typing experience that is still smooth and refined.
Overall, both the Ice King Tactile and Polaris Purple switches offer exceptional tactile typing experiences with their own unique qualities. While the Ice King Tactile provides a creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, the Polaris Purple offers a big tactile bump and a more approachable typing experience. Depending on personal preference and typing style, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a unique blend of creamy smoothness and a pronounced tactile bump, The Durock Ice King Tactile would be an excellent choice. The Ice King Tactile offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 68 grams and a sound profile that is described as subdued, making it a great option for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, if you seek a switch with a big tactile bump for an exhilarating typing experience, the SP-Star Polaris Purple would be the way to go. With a bottom out force of 67 grams and a neutral sound profile, the Polaris Purple offers a moderate actuation force and sound suitable for various typing purposes. Ultimately, your choice between the Ice King Tactile and the Polaris Purple will depend on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and tactile feedback. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that best fits your needs and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
