Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Ice King Tactile and the Jwick Taro are both tactile switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Ice King Tactile is renowned for its smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying tactile experience with finesse. On the other hand, the Taro switches offer a cozy typing experience with a medium-level of tactility and crisp clacks. While the Ice King Tactile is described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', and 'Polished', the Taro switches are characterized as 'Neutral', 'Buttery', and 'Stepped'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that appeal to different preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Jwick Taro differ significantly in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ice King Tactile features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Taro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for RGB lighting, offering a more aesthetically pleasing option compared to the opaque nylon housing of the Ice King Tactile.
While the top housing materials of the Ice King Tactile and the Jwick Taro are different, both switches share a nylon bottom housing. This commonality results in a similar deep and full sound profile, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs sound to create a duller and rounder sound. This consistency in the bottom housing material may lead to a comparable typing experience in terms of sound, despite the differences in the top housing materials. However, the Taro's use of polycarbonate for the top housing may slightly alter the overall typing experience, adding a sharper and crisper sound when keys are released compared to the Ice King Tactile.
The impact of the housing materials on a switch's sound profile can be differentiated by the top and bottom housings. The characteristics of the bottom housing material are more pronounced when pressing down on a key, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the qualities of the top housing material become more apparent when releasing a key, affecting the sound produced when the key is no longer depressed. By considering the composition of the top and bottom housings, keyboard enthusiasts can fine-tune their typing experience to achieve their desired sound and feel preferences.
Weight
The actuation force of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is 58 grams, while the Jwick Taro switch has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, making them both medium-heavy in terms of pressure needed for a keystroke. The Ice King Tactile switch is slightly lighter in actuation force compared to the Taro switch, but the difference is minimal. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ice King Tactile may be more suitable for longer typing sessions. On the other hand, those looking for a slightly heavier push feel may lean towards the Taro switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide a similar level of resistance, so users can expect comparable results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to most users, as both switches offer a relatively similar typing experience. However, if you prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Jwick Taro switch with its 3.7 mm travel distance might be more appealing compared to the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 offers a subdued sound when pressed, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Taro switch gives off a neutral sound with a moderate profile, suitable for various purposes. Keep in mind that sound can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Ice King Tactile is praised for its silky and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless feel with a slight two-stage sensation. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. Meanwhile, the Taro switch is described as buttery, delivering a smooth and fluid typing experience along with a two-stage sensation similar to the Ice King Tactile.
In conclusion, both the Durock Ice King Tactile and Jwick Taro tactile switches provide a satisfying tactile experience, each with its own unique characteristics. While the Ice King Tactile offers a blend of creamy smoothness and pronounced bump for a symphony of touch, the Taro switch provides a cozy typing experience with medium-level tactility and crisp clacks. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Jwick Taro tactile switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for typing experience. If you're looking for a switch that offers a uniquely satisfying tactile experience with a symphony of touch and a creamy smoothness, then the Ice King Tactile is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a cozy typing experience with a snappy tactility and acute clacks, then the Taro switch is the perfect choice for you. Both switches offer their own distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, so consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your individual typing preferences and usage.
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