Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Tactile, a tactile switch, with the Gateron Type L, a linear switch, it becomes evident that both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Ice King Tactiles excel in providing a luxurious typing experience with a smooth feel and pronounced tactile bump, combining the best of both worlds seamlessly. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" stands out for its light actuation force and deep sound signature, making it a practical choice for those who prefer a softer touch. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron Type L utilize nylon as their housing material, resulting in a similar typing experience for users. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a duller and rounder sound when typing, enhancing the overall typing experience for users who prefer a quieter keyboard.
While the top housing of the Ice King Tactile and the Type L share the same nylon material, the bottom housing also plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, contributing to the overall typing experience. By having both the top and bottom housing made of nylon, both switches are able to deliver a consistent sound profile that enhances the tactile feedback for users who appreciate a softer typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing material in both the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron Type L contributes to a similar typing experience characterized by a deep, full sound profile. The use of nylon in both the top and bottom housing of these switches creates a consistent and enjoyable typing experience for users who prioritize a quieter keyboard. Whether typing on the Ice King Tactile or the Type L, users can expect a tactile feedback that enhances their overall typing experience, making either switch a reliable choice for those seeking a quieter and more satisfying keyboard option.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Type L linear switch. The Ice King Tactile requires 58 grams of force to actuate a keystroke, while the Type L only needs 38 grams. Additionally, the Ice King Tactile has a bottom out force of 68 grams, whereas the Type L has a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Ice King Tactile switch heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Type L switch is lighter in both aspects, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Type L linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ice King Tactile offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it potentially more favorable for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Type L linear switch provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may be preferred by users looking for a more substantial key press feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Ice King Tactile being the shorter option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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 profile, producing a dampened sound when pressed that is more subtle compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch also has a subdued sound, but veers towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference, with the Ice King Tactile providing a smoother and softer sound experience, while the Type L offers a slightly deeper and more resonant sound.
Moving on to the feel, the Ice King Tactile switch is known for its silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance and a refined finish. In comparison, the Gateron Type L switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, offering a very light actuation force and gentle resistance during key presses. While both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by providing smooth and effortless typing, the Ice King Tactile offers a more varied tactile feel with a pronounced bump, while the Type L focuses on a light and low-impact typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Tactile and Gateron Type L switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ice King Tactile excels in providing a satisfying tactile experience with a creamy smoothness and pronounced bump, along with a subdued and refined sound profile. In contrast, the Gateron Type L focuses on being the lightest in the series and offering a feathery feel with a neutral sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences in terms of typing experience, with the Ice King Tactile emphasizing a tactile typing art form and the Type L focusing on light actuation force and easy key presses.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, you should opt for the Ice King Tactile if you value a medium-heavy bottom out force, a creamy smooth typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump, and a switch that offers a subdued sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force, a revitalized classic travel distance with contemporary lubrication, and a switch with a neutral sound profile or a slightly subdued sound, then the Gateron Type L linear switch would be the better choice for you. Consider your typing preferences, whether you prioritize smoothness, tactile feedback, or light actuation force, to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
