Durock Ice King Tactile vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the KTT Semi Mute offer unique experiences for users. The Ice King Tactile is renowned for its blend of smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience that merges the best of both worlds. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute boasts completely silent operation and advanced dampening technology, making it ideal for those who prioritize a noise-free environment during late-night typing sessions. While the Ice King Tactile is silky, frictionless, and stepped, the Semi Mute is buttery, mild, and muted. These general pointers can help steer your decision-making process; however, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
58g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the KTT Semi Mute, it is clear that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Ice King Tactile boasts a nylon top and bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. On the other hand, the Semi Mute features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, contributing to a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic composition. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, the Ice King Tactile will provide a duller and rounder typing experience, contrasting with the clearer and more resonant sound of the Semi Mute.
Despite the differences in material composition, the Nylon top housing of the Ice King Tactile and the Polycarbonate top housing of the Semi Mute both play crucial roles in shaping the overall typing experience. The Nylon top housing of the Ice King Tactile absorbs more sound than the stiffer Polycarbonate top housing of the Semi Mute, resulting in a deeper sound profile. Conversely, the Polycarbonate top housing of the Semi Mute creates a more clear and resonant typing sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their top housing materials, highlighting the importance of housing material in determining sound quality and feel.
When it comes to the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, the differences between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the KTT Semi Mute become more pronounced. The bottom housing material of each switch influences the bottom-out sound and feel, with the softer Nylon bottom housing of the Ice King Tactile contributing to a duller sound profile compared to the stiffer Polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute, which results in a sharper and crisper sound. While the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when keypress is released, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience of each switch, highlighting the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in determining sound quality and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch differ in terms of weight. 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 Semi Mute features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it more medium-weight. The lighter actuation force of the Semi Mute may appeal to users looking for a smoother typing experience for longer periods, while the heavier forces of the Ice King Tactile may be preferred by those seeking a more substantial push feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of weight that cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is clear that the Ice King Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm while the Semi Mute has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference of 0.5 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience. The Ice King Tactile's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for faster response times, especially gamers who require quick keystrokes. On the other hand, the Semi Mute's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper actuation point. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing 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 KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 is described as producing a subdued sound, offering a more muted and subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch is known for its muted sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience. Both switches aim to minimize noise, with the Ice King Tactile leaning towards a more subdued sound and the Semi Mute focusing on creating a neutral sound suitable for various environments. When considering sound, personal preference and additional factors such as keyboard and keycap choices will also play a significant role in the overall auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Ice King Tactile switch is known for its silky and frictionless typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth feel with minimal resistance during key presses and releases. Additionally, it provides a stepped sensation, allowing for a more nuanced tactile feedback. Conversely, the KTT Semi Mute switch is described as providing a buttery and mild typing experience, emphasizing smooth and uniform keystrokes that are gentle on the fingers. Both switches prioritize comfort and gratification in typing, with the Ice King Tactile focusing on enhanced smoothness and the Semi Mute offering a more approachable feel for a wider range of users. Personal preference for typing feel will ultimately guide the choice between these switches.
Overall, the Ice King Tactile and KTT Semi Mute switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. The Ice King Tactile excels in providing a pronounced tactile bump and creamy smoothness for a satisfying typing experience, while the KTT Semi Mute prioritizes silent operation and comfortable linear actuation. Depending on whether one seeks a more tactile or linear typing experience, as well as a subdued or muted sound profile, either switch can offer a delightful and high-quality typing experience. Users can expect similar levels of satisfaction and quality from both switches, with the choice ultimately coming down to personal preference and the specific typing environment.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a unique blend of smoothness and pronounced feedback, the Ice King Tactile may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a noise-free environment and desire a linear switch with advanced dampening technology, the KTT Semi Mute switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value the distinctive tactile experience of the Ice King Tactile or the silent operation and comfort of the KTT Semi Mute.
Mentioned in this article
