Durock Ice King Tactile vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Tactile and TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) stand out for their unique characteristics. The Ice King Tactile is known for its creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, offering a satisfying tactile experience with a touch of finesse. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White (V2) provides a medium tactile feel with a level of resistance that allows for precise and comfortable typing. Despite their differences in tactile feedback, both switches excel in their own way. The Ice King Tactile is ideal for those who appreciate a more subdued and silky typing experience, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) caters to individuals seeking a quiet and buttery key press. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Overall, the Durock Ice King Tactile and TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) both feature nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. However, the Ice King Tactile uses a nylon bottom housing as well, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. This contrast may result in a slightly different typing experience, with the Ice King Tactile potentially offering a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out compared to the Silent Bluish White (V2).
On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White (V2) stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In addition, the clear nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a visually appealing choice for those looking to customize their keyboard aesthetic. While both switches have their own unique qualities, the material composition of the housing ultimately plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of each keystroke.
In conclusion, while the Ice King Tactile and Silent Bluish White (V2) switches share a nylon top housing for a similar typing experience, the differences in their bottom housing materials may lead to noticeable variations in sound and feel. The choice between nylon and polycarbonate bottom housing can impact the overall typing experience, with the Ice King Tactile potentially offering a rounder sound profile while the Silent Bluish White (V2) delivers a crisper and more resonant typing experience. Ultimately, the housing materials play a crucial role in defining the overall characteristics of these switches and can cater to different preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, it is evident that the Ice King Tactile is heavier in both aspects. The Ice King Tactile has an actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Silent Bluish White (V2) has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, classifying it as a lighter option. The lighter actuation force of the Silent Bluish White (V2) may appeal to users looking for a smoother and more responsive typing experience, ideal for extended periods of use. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Ice King Tactile may suit those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switches both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that pressing down on a key with either of these switches will result in a similar feeling of travel distance. This makes them both suitable options for those looking for a consistent tactile typing experience.
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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, meaning it produces a dampened sound when pressed, creating a more subtle auditory experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch provides a muted sound, offering a softer and quieter typing experience, perfect for environments where noise level is a concern. Both switches aim to minimize sound output, with the Ice King Tactile being slightly more subdued than the Silent Bluish White (V2), but both providing a quiet typing experience overall.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Ice King Tactile switch is praised for its silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished typing experience. These descriptors indicate that the switch offers an exceptionally smooth and effortless keystroke, with a refined finish that reduces friction and enhances overall typing comfort. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch is described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished, providing a smooth and uniform typing sensation with gentle resistance and reduced friction. Both switches prioritize a comfortable typing experience, with the Ice King Tactile offering a slightly smoother feel compared to the Silent Bluish White (V2), but both delivering a satisfying tactile response.
In conclusion, both the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switch excel in providing a tactile typing experience with a focus on smoothness and quiet operation. The Ice King Tactile offers a more subdued sound profile and slightly smoother feel, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) emphasizes muted sound and gentle tactility. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that is sure to please newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Durock Ice King Tactile or the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, you should keep in mind the specific qualities and characteristics that each switch offers. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force, a symphony of touch with a pronounced tactile bump, and a smooth and frictionless typing experience, then the Ice King Tactile would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a precise and comfortable typing experience with a medium level of tactility, and a quieter sound profile designed for office or shared living space use, then the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches would depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and typing environment.
Mentioned in this article
