Durock Ice King Tactile vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with distinct options to cater to your typing preferences. The Ice King Tactile boasts a smooth and pronounced tactile bump that delivers a satisfying typing experience, while the HMX Swift offers a silky smooth linear feel with a deeper sound profile. The Ice King Tactile is described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', 'Polished', appealing to those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Swift is labeled as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', 'Creamy', attracting users who prefer a smoother linear switch. 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
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the HMX Swift are both made of nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deep and full sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with this material. This commonality between the two switches means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either the Ice King Tactile or the Swift.
However, while both switches share nylon as their housing material, the Ice King Tactile and the Swift may differ in their design and construction which can impact the overall typing experience. The top housing of a switch plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released, while the bottom housing affects the sound and feel when a key is pressed down. If the top and bottom housings of a switch are different materials, each housing material's qualities will be felt distinctly during use. It is important to consider these design differences when deciding between the Ice King Tactile and the Swift for a specific typing preference.
In conclusion, the choice between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the HMX Swift may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel while typing. Both switches utilize nylon as their housing material, offering a deep and full sound profile that is characteristic of switches made with softer plastics. Understanding how the top and bottom housing materials impact the overall typing experience can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and feel when using mechanical keyboards.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch reveals significant differences. The Ice King Tactile has a higher actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, making it medium-heavy compared to the Swift, which has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Swift makes it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the Ice King Tactile provides a more robust typing experience for those who prefer a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the HMX Swift linear switch with a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this case, the Ice King Tactile switch would provide a slightly faster response time compared to the Swift switch. Gamers may prefer the Ice King Tactile switch for this reason, as shorter travel distances are often favored for gaming to increase speed and efficiency. On the other hand, some may find the longer travel distance of the Swift switch to offer a more satisfying keystroke with deeper tactility. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 typing experience, producing a dampened sound when pressed. This creates a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches, enhancing the overall typing experience with a softer auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This crisp and bright sound adds a percussive element to typing, giving a distinct auditory feedback with each keystroke.
When it comes to feel, the Ice King Tactile switch is described as silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. These qualities enhance the overall smoothness of typing, minimizing resistance and offering fluid key travel. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch is known for being easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy, offering a light and responsive typing feel. The light actuation force and bouncy feedback create a comfortable typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended use.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch excels in providing a uniquely satisfying tactile experience with its smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, while offering a subdued sound profile. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch stands out with its deep sound profile and easy-to-press, feathery feel, providing a different typing experience that focuses on light actuation and responsiveness. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer a premium typing experience with their unique characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Ice King Tactile or the HMX Swift switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a uniquely satisfying tactile experience, then the Ice King Tactile may be the right choice for you. The Ice King Tactile offers a silky, frictionless feel with a pronounced tactile bump that elevates your typing to an art form. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, easy-to-press typing experience with a deeper sound profile, then the HMX Swift switch could be more suited to your needs. The Swift's feathery, bouncy feel combines with a silky smoothness and a brighter sound signature in a way that stands out from the crowd. Ultimately, both switches bring their own unique benefits to the table, so consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
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