Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Dareu Sky V3 mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that they each offer distinct characteristics to cater to different typing preferences. The Ice King Tactile stands out for its creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, creating a satisfying tactile experience that merges finesse with the best of both worlds. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 is renowned for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, striking a balance between comfort and precision that appeals to a wide range of typing styles. While the Ice King Tactile offers a silky and stepped typing experience, the Sky V3 provides a more subdued and mild feel. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Dareu Sky V3, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon, known for its softer properties that absorb sound, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. As such, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, enhancing the overall tactile feedback for users. Despite their similarities in bottom housing material, the Ice King Tactile stands out with its nylon top housing, while the Sky V3 features a polycarbonate top housing.
The contrasting feature between the Ice King Tactile and the Sky V3 lies in their top housing material. The Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties, which absorb more sound and create a rounded sound experience. In contrast, the Sky V3's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer nature that allows for a more resonant sound. These differing qualities in the top housing material significantly impact the overall sound experience of each switch, catering to user preferences for either a deeper or crisper sound profile.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Dareu Sky V3 will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing experience. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, their top housing materials provide distinct characteristics. The Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing offers a duller and rounder sound, suitable for those seeking a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V3's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and clearer sound, appealing to users looking for a crisper typing sound. These differences in housing materials showcase the versatility and customization options available in the mechanical keyboard market for users to tailor their typing experience to their liking.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that the Ice King Tactile switch is heavier in terms of actuation force with 58 grams compared to the Sky V3's 40 grams. Additionally, the Ice King Tactile requires a bottom out force of 68 grams, while the bottom out force of the Sky V3 is unknown. The Ice King Tactile provides a medium-heavy typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Sky V3 remains a mystery in terms of bottom out force, making it harder to determine its suitability for different typing preferences. Weight plays a crucial role in switch selection, with lighter options being favored for longer typing sessions and heavier options providing a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, the Ice King Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sky V3 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Ice King Tactile's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Sky V3's longer travel distance might be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Ice King Tactile feeling more abrupt and the Sky V3 providing a deeper press. In the end, the choice between the two 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 Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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 Ice King Tactile switch offers a more subdued typing experience, with a dampened sound that is not completely silent but more subtle compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Sky V3 switch presents a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound level that is suitable for various typing environments. Both switches share a subdued sound quality, providing a quiet typing experience that is ideal for those who prefer a more muted sound while typing.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Tactile switch stands out for its silky smoothness and frictionless typing experience, giving users an exceptionally smooth feel with minimal resistance. Additionally, the switch is described as stepped, offering a mild tactile bump sensation that enhances typing satisfaction. Conversely, the Sky V3 switch is characterized as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. While the specific feel of the Sky V3 switch may differ slightly from the Ice King Tactile, both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience that caters to a wide range of preferences.
Overall, the Ice King Tactile and the Sky V3 switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ice King Tactile provides a more pronounced tactile experience with a subdued sound profile, while the Sky V3 delivers a neutral sound signature and a mild typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience, with both switches offering unique qualities that cater to diverse user needs. Whether you opt for the Ice King Tactile or the Sky V3, you can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Dareu Sky V3 switches, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a unique, satisfying tactile experience with medium-heavy actuation force and a symphony of touch, the Ice King Tactile may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you value a neutral sound signature, medium-light weight, and a switch that balances comfort and precision, the Sky V3 could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels best to you and enhances your typing experience.
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