Durock Ice King Tactile vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Tactile and the SP-Star Yanyu mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider their unique characteristics. The Ice King Tactile offers a luxurious tactile typing experience, with a pronounced bump and smooth actuation, making it a top choice for those seeking a satisfying tactile feel. In contrast, the Yanyu switch provides a more delicate and subtle typing experience, perfect for extended typing sessions with its crisp sound profile. While the Ice King Tactile is praised for its silky and stepped feel, the Yanyu is known for its feathery and thocky nature. 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
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Tactile and the SP-Star Yanyu both use nylon in their switch housings, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. However, the Yanyu incorporates a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its housing, offering a unique sound profile that is described as brighter compared to the Ice King Tactile. This difference in material composition may result in a slightly different typing experience for users who prefer a sharper sound profile.
While both switches feature a nylon top housing, the Ice King Tactile and Yanyu differ in their bottom housing materials. The Ice King Tactile utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper sound profile that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Yanyu incorporates a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its bottom housing, creating a slightly brighter sound profile. This difference may affect the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and SP-Star Yanyu contribute to their distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches utilize nylon in their housing materials, the Yanyu's unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE sets it apart from the Ice King Tactile in terms of sound brightness. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile or a brighter and more pleasant sound, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their carefully selected housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch vary significantly in weight. The Ice King Tactile has a medium-heavy actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch has a light bottom out force of 43 grams, with an unknown actuation force, offering a lighter touch. This means that the Ice King Tactile switch would be better suited for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Yanyu switch would be ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a crucial role in determining the user's comfort and typing efficiency.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is clear that the Ice King Tactile has a shorter travel distance at 3.5 mm, while the Yanyu has a longer travel distance at 4 mm. The Ice King Tactile falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which is favored by gamers for quicker response times. On the other hand, the Yanyu offers a deeper travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Both switches offer their own unique benefits, with the Ice King Tactile providing a quicker key press and the Yanyu offering a more deliberate and deep keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience desired.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 provides a subdued typing experience with a dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes, along with a thocky sound characteristic that produces a deep and rich tone. Both switches offer different sound profiles that can cater to individual preferences, with the Ice King Tactile being more subdued and the Yanyu providing a mix of neutral and thocky tones.
When it comes to feel, the Ice King Tactile switch is known for providing a silky and frictionless typing experience, offering smooth key presses with minimal resistance. Additionally, it is described as having a stepped feel, with two stages of tactile feedback. Conversely, the SP-Star Yanyu switch offers a mild and feathery typing experience, requiring little exertion and reducing finger fatigue. Both switches share a polished finish, providing a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. While the Ice King Tactile focuses on offering a smooth and frictionless typing feel, the Yanyu aims for a gentler typing experience that reduces strain on the fingers.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch excels in providing a unique tactile experience with smoothness and a pronounced tactile bump, offering a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch is geared towards those seeking a delicate and comfortable typing experience, with a crisp sound profile and light actuation force. Both switches have their own strengths and cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing the switch that best suits individual typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a medium-heavy bottom out force with a uniquely satisfying tactile experience, then the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force for a more delicate typing experience and a crisp sound profile, then the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is the better choice. Consider your preferences for bottom out force, tactile experience, and sound profile when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, choose the switch that best fits your typing style and sensory preferences for an optimal typing experience.
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