Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, choosing the right switch can significantly enhance your typing experience, particularly when comparing two popular tactile options: the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron Weightlessness. The Ice King Tactile switches stand out for their impeccable blend of creamy smoothness and a pronounced tactile bump, delivering a uniquely satisfying experience that feels both luxurious and responsive. Categorized as silky and polished, they are designed to elevate tactile typing to an art form, making them an excellent choice for those who crave finesse and precision in every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness switches offer a more subtle to moderate tactile feel, striking a balance between sound and tactility that caters to users seeking a quieter yet still engaging typing experience. While Ice King Tactiles might appeal to those who enjoy a pronounced feedback, Weightlessness caters to individuals who prefer a more understated response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
58g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Tactile and Gateron Weightlessness both feature switch housings made entirely from nylon, which plays a pivotal role in shaping their sound profiles and overall typing experience. The nylon material used in both switches is renowned for its properties, particularly in how it affects the auditory feedback produced when typing. Given that both switches have nylon for their top and bottom housings, one can expect to achieve a remarkably similar acoustic experience. The inherent softness of nylon results in a deeper and fuller sound that is characteristic of both models, creating a typing experience enriched by sound absorption that is well-balanced and pleasant.
Despite the shared nylon composition, the impact of each housing, top and bottom, on the switch's performance cannot be understated. While both switches will produce a similar auditory effect thanks to their identical material, the tactile feedback and sound characteristics during different phases of key press will be influenced by their housing design nuances. In particular, the bottom housing of each switch contributes significantly to the sound and feel of the bottom-out action, while the top housing is responsible for the sound as the key is released. Therefore, although the materials may be the same, the specific switch design can still yield different overall sensations based on how the qualities of each housing material is utilized.
Ultimately, users of both the Durock Ice King Tactile and Gateron Weightlessness will find that their experiences are similar due to the shared nylon material in their housings. However, slight variations in switch design and mechanisms could introduce unique nuances to the tactile feel and acoustic feedback. If seeking to achieve comparable results in terms of typing sound and depth of response, either switch would be suitable – users might simply find that while the core auditory characteristics align well due to the nylon material, the overall feel of typing and bottoming out may still present subtle differences that cater to individual preferences in keyboard switch sensations.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force. The Ice King Tactile requires an actuation force of 58 grams, while the Weightlessness has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams. This indicates that the Weightlessness might be more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, potentially facilitating longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, those who favor a more substantial feel may find the heavier actuation of the Ice King Tactile more appealing. Concerning bottom out force, the Ice King Tactile has a bottom out force of 68 grams, which further emphasizes its medium-heavy feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness does not specify a bottom out force, leaving it unknown. Therefore, users looking for a more tactile feedback with a defined bottom feel may lean towards the Ice King, while the Weightlessness might attract those who seek a softer typing experience without the solid resistance at the bottom. Ultimately, the Ice King Tactile is the heavier option, while the Weightlessness is the lighter switch in terms of actuation force.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch exhibit slight differences in their travel distances, with the Ice King having a travel distance of 3.5 mm and the Weightlessness at 3.4 mm. This makes the Weightlessness the shorter option, while the Ice King offers a bit more depth. The difference of just 0.1 mm may seem minor, but it can affect the tactile experience and responsiveness of the switches. Gamers who prioritize quick response times might prefer the shorter travel distance of the Weightlessness, while users seeking a more substantial feel might find the added depth of the Ice King preferable. Both switches, however, offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, catering to a modern preference for increased 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 Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch produces a subdued acoustic profile, delivering a dampened sound that strikes a balance between being noticeable and unobtrusive. This makes it ideal for those who enjoy a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the tactile sensation that adds to the overall enjoyment. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switch does not have a defined sound profile available, leaving its acoustic characteristics somewhat of a mystery. Consequently, the sound quality of the Weightlessness may vary widely depending on the configuration of your keyboard, such as the type of board and keycaps you choose. With the Ice King, you can expect a more consistent experience in terms of sound output.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Tactile switch excels with its silky, frictionless action, and polished finish, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. Each keystroke feels fluid and effortless, creating a tactile environment characterized by minimal resistance. This high level of refinement truly elevates the tactile typing experience to new heights. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness switch presents a subtle to moderate tactile sensation, but further details about its specific feel are not provided, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. This means that while the Ice King switch promises a luxury tactile experience, the feel of the Weightlessness remains somewhat unknown, leaving room for exploration.
In conclusion, while the Durock Ice King Tactile switch impresses with its smooth, refined sound and exceptional feel, the Gateron Weightlessness switch offers an ambiguous tactile experience when it comes to both sound and feel. If you seek a reliable choice with a clear tactile signature, the Ice King would be the way to go. The Weightlessness, while still providing a tactile experience, leaves some elements up to chance, making it less predictable. Overall, your preferences in sound and feel will greatly influence your choice, but with the Ice King, you can expect a cohesive, satisfying typing symphony that few can rival.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron Weightlessness switches ultimately boils down to your personal preferences in tactile feedback and sound design during your typing sessions. If you desire a more pronounced tactile experience that elegantly merges smoothness with a noticeable bump, the Ice King Tactile switches are the way to go. Their 68-gram actuation force ensures a satisfying resistance that you can rely on, particularly if you enjoy the mechanical resonance that accompanies the tactile action. Moreover, with their subdued sound profile and silky feel, they cater well to environments where noise management is essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle tactile feedback and a sound profile that is inherently less intrusive, the Gateron Weightlessness switches might be your best bet. While their tactile feel is more understated, the appeal lies in their balanced nature, which can be a better match for both casual typing and extended use without fatigue. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style—go for the Ice King Tactiles if you appreciate pronounced tactile feedback and a richer sound experience, but lean towards the Weightlessness switches if you seek a more understated, smoother typing experience that allows for long-lasting comfort.
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