Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Red Panda mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that both offer unique features catered to different preferences. The Ice King Tactile is celebrated for its smooth and pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience that seamlessly combines smoothness with tactility. On the other hand, the Red Panda offers a different tactile experience with a light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by distinct bottom-out and top-out sounds. While the Ice King Tactile boasts qualities like being 'Silky', 'Frictionless', and 'Stepped', the Red Panda is known for a 'Thocky' feel and a 'Mild' tactile response. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and typing habits; 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
50g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Panda, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon as their bottom housing material. This means that they will both elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing due to nylon's softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. However, where they differ is in their top housing material. The Ice King Tactile features a nylon top housing, which creates a duller and rounder sound, while the Red Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The choice of top housing material ultimately impacts the overall sound profile of the switch, with nylon offering a deeper sound and polycarbonate offering a clearer, more resonant sound.
Additionally, the difference in top housing materials between the Ice King Tactile and the Red Panda also affects their aesthetic appeal. The Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing may not offer the same level of clarity as the Red Panda's polycarbonate top housing, especially when it comes to showcasing RGB lighting. Polycarbonate's translucency allows for more vibrant and visually appealing lighting effects, making it a popular choice for switches that prioritize aesthetics and customizability. However, nylon's classic switch housing material still holds its own in terms of providing a deeper and fuller sound profile, making it a dependable choice for those who value typing experience over aesthetics.
Overall, while the Ice King Tactile and the Red Panda share similarities in their bottom housing material, their top housing materials set them apart in terms of sound profile and aesthetic considerations. The Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing offers a softer and more rounded sound profile, while the Red Panda's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and more resonant sound. When deciding between these two switches, users should consider their preferences for sound profile, typing experience, and visual aesthetics to determine which housing material best suits their needs and preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch reveals some key differences. The Ice King Tactile has a heavier actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Red Panda has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium switch. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Red Panda, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Ice King Tactile for its heavier force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Ice King Tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Red Panda switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular for improved responsiveness, especially among gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may impact the feel of the keys when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 Outemu Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 more subdued and dampened sound profile, providing a subtle and refined typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda switch produces a thocky and satisfying sound, with a deep thud or soft knock when pressed and released. Both switches can provide an enjoyable auditory experience, but the Ice King Tactile may be more suited for those who prefer a quieter typing environment.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Tactile switch boasts a silky and frictionless typing experience, with a polished finish that enhances smoothness and minimizes resistance. Additionally, it features a stepped feel that provides a more controlled tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch offers a milder tactile experience, providing a gentle typing feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. While both switches offer a tactile typing experience, the Ice King Tactile may appeal more to those seeking a smoother and more refined keypress sensation.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Tactile and Outemu Red Panda switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. If a typist desires a quieter, more refined sound profile and a smoother, polished typing experience, the Ice King Tactile would be the ideal choice. Conversely, if they prefer a more satisfying, thocky sound and a gentler tactile feel, the Outemu Red Panda switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches provide a high-quality tactile typing experience, and users are likely to achieve similar levels of satisfaction with either option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switches, you should consider your preferences in terms of typing experience. If you value a symphony of touch with a pronounced tactile bump and unique smoothness, the Ice King Tactile may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light-medium amount of tactility with a bassier bottom-out sound and clackier top-out sound, the Red Panda could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a more subdued and polished typing experience or a thocky and mild one. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to determine which aligns best with your preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
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