Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi mechanical keyboard switches, a stark difference in their design and functionality is immediately apparent. The Ice King Tactile switch is praised for its symphony of touch, offering a creamy smoothness coupled with a pronounced tactile bump for a uniquely satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switch boasts innovation meeting visual aesthetics, with ultra-smooth linear switches featuring a light-diffusing column to enhance RGB visuals. While the Ice King Tactile is described as 'Silky' and 'Frictionless', the WS Morandi is hailed for its 'Buttery' and 'Creamy' feel. Each switch offers its own set of desirable characteristics, but diving deeper beyond these generalities is essential to determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
58g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
UPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing and a nylon bottom housing, both of which are known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound that is highly satisfying for typists looking for a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi features a POM top housing and a POM bottom housing, which also create a pleasing and unique sound profile, albeit with a deeper and more muted tone. Both switches offer a similar overall typing experience in terms of sound profile, with the main difference lying in the specific qualities brought by nylon versus POM material.
In terms of construction, the Ice King Tactile and WS Morandi switches both benefit from the sound-absorbing properties of their respective housing materials. The nylon top and bottom housing of the Ice King Tactile work together to create a consistent and enjoyable typing experience, with the softer plastic absorbing more sound and contributing to a rounder sound profile. Similarly, the POM top and bottom housing of the WS Morandi offer a unique and deep sound that is more muted compared to nylon material. Despite the differences in material, both switches are able to deliver a satisfying typing experience with their respective housing materials playing a key role in shaping the sound profile of the switches.
When it comes to the tactile feedback and sound of the switches, the nylon and POM housing materials exhibit distinct characteristics. The Ice King Tactile's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound that is softer and less sharp, resulting in a more rounded typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Morandi's POM housing offers a unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted, creating a different tactile experience for typists. While the specific nuances of each switch's sound profile may vary, both the Ice King Tactile and WS Morandi switches ultimately offer a high-quality typing experience that caters to individual preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch. The Ice King Tactile requires 58 grams to actuate and 68 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the WS Morandi only needs 50 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, classifying it as a medium switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the WS Morandi, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Ice King Tactile. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a significant role in the typing experience, with lighter switches offering longer typing comfort and heavier switches providing a more solid keystroke sensation.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect a similar typing experience with both switches in terms of travel distance. This makes them equal in this aspect, providing consistent feedback to users.
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 Wuque Studio WS Morandi comes in at $3.90 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 Ice King Tactile switch offers a more subdued experience with a dampened sound when pressed, creating a subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switch presents a low-pitched tone that is more bass-heavy and mellow, complemented by a slightly more subdued sound profile. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, with the Ice King Tactile leaning towards a softer sound and the WS Morandi delivering a deeper tone.
When it comes to feel, the Ice King Tactile switch is praised for its silky and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke with minimal resistance. The switch also features a stepped design, providing a nuanced tactile sensation with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages. In comparison, the WS Morandi switch is described as buttery and creamy, emphasizing a fluid and uniform typing sensation that feels like gliding across the keys with ease. With a silky smoothness, the WS Morandi switch offers a distinct tactile experience that is polished and refined.
Taking into account the subjective qualities of sound and feel, both the Ice King Tactile and WS Morandi switches offer unique and appealing characteristics for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Ice King Tactile excels in providing a more subdued sound and a silky smooth typing experience with pronounced tactile feedback, the WS Morandi stands out with its low-pitched sound profile and buttery, creamy feel that enhances the overall typing sensation. Whether you prefer a softer, more tactile typing experience or a smoother, uniform keystroke, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers looking to explore the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches, consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you appreciate a tactile typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump and medium-heavy bottom out force, the Ice King Tactile may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a smooth and visually appealing linear switch with a light diffusing design, a medium bottom out force, and a slightly more muted sound profile, the WS Morandi could be the perfect match for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the type of typing experience you desire and the aesthetics that appeal to you the most.
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