Durock Ice King Tactile vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Tactile and the TTC Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Ice King Tactile stands out for its smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience that balances tactility and smoothness flawlessly. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is favored for its fast and precise typing capabilities, with a light-medium resistance level and reduced travel distance for quick actuation. While the Ice King Tactile leans towards a more nuanced and tactile typing experience, the Speed Silver emphasizes speed and efficiency. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
The housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the TTC Speed Silver offer contrasting sound profiles due to their different plastic compositions. The Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, while the Speed Silver's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. This means that the Ice King Tactile will provide a deeper and fuller typing experience, while the Speed Silver will deliver a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Speed Silver's top housing is advantageous for RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice for gamers and enthusiasts.
On the other hand, both the Ice King Tactile and the TTC Speed Silver feature a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, contributing to a duller and rounder sound for both switches. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that users will have consistent tactile feedback and sound when typing on either switch. However, it is the top housing material that ultimately differentiates the overall sound characteristics of the switches, with the Ice King Tactile offering a warmer sound compared to the crisper sound of the Speed Silver.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the TTC Speed Silver may differ in their top housing compositions, both switches provide a reliable tactile typing experience with similar bottom housing materials. The choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on the sound profile preference of the user, with the Ice King Tactile offering a deeper and fuller sound and the Speed Silver providing a sharper and crisper sound. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer a classic typing experience with quality housing materials that contribute to their overall performance.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver switch, it is clear that the Ice King Tactile is the heavier option with an actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, while the Speed Silver is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Ice King Tactile provides a more substantial typing experience due to its medium-heavy force, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Speed Silver offers a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Both switches provide a different tactile feel due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for typing feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver switch, it is evident that the Ice King Tactile has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Speed Silver's 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum in terms of travel distance, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. However, the Ice King Tactile offers just a slightly deeper press than the Speed Silver, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more depth in their key presses. Ultimately, both switches provide a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so you can expect comparable results from either option.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a subdued sound when pressed, providing a dampened and more subtle sound profile compared to most switches. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch has a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, suitable for various typing purposes. Ultimately, the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Ice King Tactile switch is appreciated for its silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished typing experience, offering exceptional smoothness, minimal resistance, and a refined finish for a satisfying tactile feel. Conversely, the TTC Speed Silver switch provides a mild and approachable typing experience with a polished finish that enhances smooth key travel. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Ice King Tactile offering a more pronounced tactile bump while the Speed Silver focuses on a fast and precise actuation.
In conclusion, while the Durock Ice King Tactile and TTC Speed Silver switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, both switches prioritize providing a smooth and satisfying typing experience. The Ice King Tactile excels in blending creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, resulting in a unique and enjoyable tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Speed Silver focuses on speed and precision with reduced travel distance for quicker actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the TTC Speed Silver switches, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and creamy smoothness, the Ice King Tactile would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and precision in your typing, the Speed Silver switch with its light-medium resistance and reduced travel distance would suit your needs better. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that aligns with your preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
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