Huano Acacia vs. TTC Ice
An in-depth look at the Huano Acacia and the TTC Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference, and two standout options are the Huano Acacia and the TTC Ice, both of which fall into the linear switch category. The Huano Acacia is celebrated for its medium-light weight and generous factory lubrication, providing an exceptional typing experience right out of the box, complemented by minimal stem wobble for added stability. On the other hand, the TTC Ice switches boast a striking crystal-clear transparent design that not only enhances their aesthetic appeal but also delivers a smooth, responsive feel along with a satisfying bottom-out sound, making them suitable for both gaming and everyday tasks. While the Acacia offers a reliable and comfortable typing experience, the TTC Ice presents a blend of style and performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Huano Acacia and TTC Ice switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a similar acoustic profile characterized by sharper, higher-pitched sounds that are notably crisp and clear. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to this resonant sound quality, making both switches particularly suited for scenarios that require a precise auditory feedback, such as gaming or typing. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate material enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches when used with RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant illumination that can enhance the visual experience of any keyboard setup. Because they share this common material for the top housing, both switches will likely produce comparable sound characteristics, leading to a consistent performance in this regard.
However, a significant distinction between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Acacia employs nylon for its bottom housing, which serves to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer texture, which dampens sound waves and contributes to a rounder, more muted auditory experience. In contrast, the TTC Ice features a polycarbonate bottom housing, mirroring its top housing's properties and further enhancing its crisp sound profile. This combination of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings of the Ice switch creates a cohesively sharper sound, while the nylon bottom of the Acacia enriches its auditory output in a different, more rounded manner.
Ultimately, the performance of each switch is closely tied to the combination of housing materials. While both switches produce sharp sounds due to their polycarbonate tops, the Acacia's nylon bottom enriches its auditory qualities by providing a deeper sound experience. Conversely, the TTC Ice benefits from the stiffer polycarbonate in both housing components, leading to a sound that is consistently bright and clear across the board. Users looking for specific auditory experiences should consider how these material choices play a crucial role in defining the overall sound profiles of each switch. Thus, while superficially similar due to their top housing, the differences in the bottom housing materials yield distinct playing experiences, which could influence a user's preference based on their specific needs.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Acacia linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, the actuation forces are notably similar, with both switches requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke; this similarity means users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of actuation. However, the bottom-out forces differ slightly, with the Acacia switch registering at 55 grams, while the Ice switch has a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 60 grams. This difference indicates that while both switches have a light actuation feel, the TTC Ice offers a bit more resistance when fully pressed down, resulting in a more substantial typing sensation. Consequently, the Acacia is the lighter option overall, appealing more to users who prioritize comfort during extended use, while the heavier bottom-out of the Ice may attract those who enjoy a firmer feedback in their typing experience. Thus, while both switches can provide similar actuation results, the Ice switch ultimately delivers a stronger tactile confirmation when bottoming out.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Huano Acacia linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch are 3.5 mm and 3.6 mm, respectively, with the Ice switch having the longer travel distance. This difference of 0.1 mm means the Ice switch will provide a slightly deeper keypress compared to the Acacia. For gamers or users who favor quicker responses, the Acacia's shorter travel distance can offer a more sensitive feel, reducing the time needed to register each keystroke. In contrast, the longer travel distance of the Ice switch may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced depth when typing, allowing for a more substantial feedback experience. Both switches fall within a range that is shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm but do provide distinct choices based on user preference for responsiveness versus a more hearty keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
The Huano Acacia comes in at $3.39 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
When it comes to sound, the Huano Acacia linear switch is known for its subtlety and mellowness, offering a pleasant typing experience that is neither too loud nor too quiet. Its sound profile is designed to complement a comfortable typing environment, making it suitable for use in shared spaces. On the other hand, the TTC Ice linear switch features a satisfying bottom-out sound that adds a layer of auditory feedback to each keystroke. This combination of crispness and responsiveness in the Ice switches can create a more engaging typing experience, especially for those who appreciate an audible confirmation of their actions.
In terms of feel, the Acacia switch stands out with its medium-light weight, providing an effortless typing experience right from the start. The generous factory lubrication contributes to smooth key presses, while minimal stem wobble enhances stability, making it enjoyable for extended typing sessions. The TTC Ice switch, known for its smooth and responsive feel, also excels in providing a premium typing experience. This responsiveness makes it appealing for both gamers and typists, allowing for quick and accurate input, whether in fast-paced gaming scenarios or while typing lengthy documents.
Overall, both the Huano Acacia and TTC Ice linear switches offer excellent qualities suitable for different users. The Acacia is great for those who prefer a balanced sound and a smooth, stable feel right out of the box. In contrast, the Ice’s satisfying bottom-out sound and responsiveness make it a delightful choice for those who enjoy a bit more auditory feedback in their typing. Ultimately, while both switches cater to varied typing preferences, they can offer similar pleasant experiences, albeit with slight variations in sound and feel that cater to individual tastes.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Acacia and TTC Ice linear switches, the choice largely depends on your personal preferences and use case. If you prefer a lighter keystroke feel and wish to maximize comfort right from the start, the Acacia with its medium-light actuation force of 55 grams is a compelling choice. This switch excels in providing a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, complemented by its factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble. Such qualities make it an excellent option for prolonged typing sessions or for those who prioritize comfort over a more tactile feel. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a slightly heavier action with a sturdy bottom-out sound, the TTC Ice, with its 60 grams of actuation force, may suit your needs better. Its crystal-clear design not only adds a visual appeal but also enhances the tactile feedback, making it an excellent choice for both gaming and daily typing demands. Therefore, consider your typing style, the importance of sound and feel, and the type of tasks you'll be performing when making your decision between these two switches.
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