Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, both the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offer unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The Ice King Tactile is celebrated for its exceptional tactile feedback, providing a silky smooth experience paired with a pronounced bump that elevates tactile typing to an art form. Its polished design and frictionless operation merge aesthetics with functionality, making it a top choice for those who relish a rich tactile sensation while typing. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) emphasizes a balanced experience that resonates with enthusiasts who crave that distinctive "thock" sound. With its super smooth keystroke and dustproof stem minimizing wobble, this switch is ideal for users seeking a refined feel without sacrificing performance. Each switch has its own unique charm and purpose, catering to specific desires in the mechanical keyboard realm. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Tactile and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) present an interesting contrast in their top housing materials, each influencing the overall sound profile of the keyboard switches. The Ice King Tactile features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon’s softer nature. This characteristic allows it to absorb more sound, leading to a rounder and less pronounced auditory feedback when a key is released. In comparison, the Sticky Rice (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer properties of polycarbonate enhance the clarity and resonance, making keystrokes sound more defined. Thus, while both switches offer unique auditory experiences, they cater to different preferences—those who favor a warm, mellow sound might lean toward the Ice King Tactile, whereas those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback might prefer the Sticky Rice (V2).
When examining the bottom housings, both switches share the same material—nylon. This consistency means that both switches will provide a deeper and fuller sound profile when bottoming out, as nylon's softer properties effectively dampen sound. The shared use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a bulkier sound experience—regardless of the top housing material. Consequently, when pressed, users will experience similar auditory characteristics with regard to bottoming out, contributing to a unified tactile experience for both the Ice King Tactile and the Sticky Rice (V2). This feature can be particularly appealing for users who enjoy consistent feedback across different switches in their keyboard setups.
Ultimately, the overall sound and tactile experience of typing on these switches will reflect the combination of their housing materials. The differentiated top housings mean that each switch communicates unique qualities—while the Ice King Tactile offers a warmer, more subdued auditory experience with its nylon top, the Sticky Rice (V2) delivers crisp, clear sounds thanks to its polycarbonate top. However, the shared nylon bottom housing provides a grounding element that assures a consistent bottoming out sensation, allowing users to enjoy a nuanced yet cohesive typing experience across both switches. Thus, while their top housings create distinct auditory profiles, the use of nylon in the bottom ensures a familiar tactile feedback, appealing to various preferences and playing styles.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch with the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Ice King Tactile requires an actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) features a significantly lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. This disparity indicates that users who favor a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Everglide option, while those seeking a more substantial push feel with a stronger force may prefer the Durock Ice King. Overall, the Ice King Tactile presents a heavier typing experience compared to the lighter and more effortless feel of the Sticky Rice (V2).
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch both feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This similarity means that users can expect a similar feel and response from both switches when pressing down on a key. Since the travel distance is the same, both switches deliver comparable tactile feedback and key actuation, resulting in a consistent 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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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
The sound characteristics of the Ice King Tactile are best described as subdued, producing a dampened sound that strikes a balance between audibility and discretion. This results in a typing experience that is not entirely silent, yet lacks the pronounced acoustics of more aggressive switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) notably emphasizes a neutral signature, which, when paired with the right board and keycaps, can offer that coveted "thock" sound that enthusiasts strive for. Though one offers a more muted auditory feedback and the other a more pronounced tonal richness, both can provide a satisfying auditory experience based on the typing setup you choose.
When it comes to tactile feel, the Ice King Tactile excels with its silky, frictionless action, offering an effortless typing experience that minimizes any resistance during key presses. The stepped design introduces a nuanced, two-stage tactile feedback, allowing for a more subtle and refined sensation as you travel through the keystroke. This is complemented by a polished finish that enhances the overall smoothness and precision of your typing. The tactile sensations and feedback characteristics of the Sticky Rice (V2) remain unspecified, leaving an unknown juxtaposition when compared to the Ice King switch. However, given its reputation for smooth motion and a pleasant tactile experience, it is expected to provide a refined touch for users who appreciate subtlety in their keystrokes.
In conclusion, both the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches provide distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Ice King Tactile stands out for its silky smoothness, moderate sound profile, and elegant tactile feedback, while the Sticky Rice (V2) promises a neutral sound with smooth keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, but both can deliver pleasurable typing experiences tailored to your individual typing style and keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a more tactile typing experience that offers a pronounced tactile bump with a medium-heavy force of 68 grams, the Ice King Tactile could be your best bet. Its subdued sound profile and silky, frictionless feel make it ideal for those who appreciate a refined tactile sensation that’s less jarring than heavier switches while still providing satisfying feedback. This switch excels for tasks that require a balance of precision and comfort, making it suitable for both typing and gaming scenarios where you want to feel each keystroke distinctly. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter keystroke with a bottom-out force of only 50 grams, the Sticky Rice (V2) may be the switch for you. Known for its smoothness and balanced typing experience, it offers that coveted "thock" sound signature and enhanced performance through its dustproof stem design. This switch is particularly appealing for those who prioritize a fluid typing experience, whether it’s for long typing sessions or high-speed gaming where rapid key presses are essential. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your desire for tactile feedback, sound profile, and the overall typing sensation you seek in your mechanical keyboard.
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