Gateron Aliaz vs. TTC Ice
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the TTC Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Aliaz and TTC Ice presents two distinct options catering to different user preferences. The Aliaz is a tactile switch designed for quiet environments, making it an ideal choice for office settings or shared spaces. Its medium-heavy weight provides a satisfying keystroke feel, delivering tactile feedback that many typists appreciate. In contrast, the TTC Ice switch is a linear switch celebrated for its smooth operation and premium typing experience, featuring a stunning transparent design that not only looks good but also produces a satisfying, clacky sound at bottom-out. This makes it versatile enough for both gaming and day-to-day typing needs. While both switches have their unique advantages—like the Aliaz's muted operation for a more discreet typing experience and the Ice's smooth responsiveness for quick, agile keystrokes—they ultimately cater to different typists. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and TTC Ice switches share a striking similarity in their housing materials, both utilizing polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate is known for its rigidity and translucency, which contributes to a distinct sound profile characterized by sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper audio when the switches are activated. Since both switches employ the same material, users can expect a comparable acoustic experience; the resulting sound is not only clear but also resonant, enhancing the overall typing experience. This is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enables vibrant backlighting to shine through the switch housings.
While both switches are constructed from polycarbonate, there might be subtle variances in the design or internal mechanisms that could influence their overall performance. For instance, though the material properties remain the same, factors such as the shape, thickness, and fit of the top and bottom housings can affect the bottom-out sound and feel of each switch. The Gateron Aliaz and TTC Ice may present different tactile sensations or auditory profiles due to these potential design differences, leading to individual preferences among typists or gamers. Those who appreciate distinct feedback from their keystrokes might find nuances between the two models that reflect their personal taste.
Ultimately, the shared use of polycarbonate in both the Gateron Aliaz and TTC Ice switches results in a fundamental similarity in sound profile and aesthetic qualities. However, the effects of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound experience cannot be understated. Each switch's bottom housing plays a crucial role in determining the bottom-out noise while the top housing largely impacts the sound upon release. This division of influence means that even with identical materials, users may perceive differences in the overall performance and way each switch feels under their fingers—highlighting the importance of individual experience in the realm of keyboard switches.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the TTC Ice linear switch exhibit significant differences in both actuation and bottom out forces, catering to varied preferences among users. The Aliaz features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the TTC Ice switch offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize comfort during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. While both switches have unique characteristics, the Aliaz is decidedly heavier in both measurements, whereas the Ice is lighter, directly influencing the typing experience and comfort level for users based on their individual preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, the Aliaz stands out with its 4 mm travel distance, while the Ice features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference means that the Aliaz offers a more substantial pressing experience, which can be appealing to those who prefer a deeper feel when typing. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the Ice switch may provide quicker response times, making it a desirable option for gamers who seek fast and efficient keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for either a more pronounced keypress or a snappier feel, with the Gateron Aliaz being the longer option and the TTC Ice the shorter one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
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.
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 Gateron Aliaz switches are designed to provide a muted auditory experience, making them incredibly well-suited for quiet environments such as offices. Their soft and quieter sound profile minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, allowing for focused work without disturbing others. Conversely, the TTC Ice linear switches are characterized by a clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy auditory feedback with each keystroke. The crisp, bright, and percussive nature of the Ice switches can invigorate the typing experience, but may not be ideal for shared spaces where noise is a concern. Ultimately, the choice between muted and clacky comes down to personal preference and the environment in which you plan to use the keyboard.
In terms of feel, Gateron Aliaz switches offer a silky and polished typing experience, allowing for exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal resistance. This provides a substantial and satisfying feedback with a heavier actuation, making it appealing for users who enjoy a pronounced tactile response. On the other hand, the TTC Ice switches present a feathery feel, where the light actuation force requires less effort to press the keys. While the floating sensation can lead to comfort during extended sessions, it may lack the depth and feedback that some typists seek. Here, the Aliaz switches excel in offering a more robust typing feel, while the Ice switches prioritize a lighter and effortless experience.
In summary, both the Gateron Aliaz and TTC Ice switches bring unique qualities to the table. The Aliaz excels in providing a muted sound and a heavier, smoother feel, making them ideal for quieter environments and users who prefer pronounced feedback. Conversely, the Ice switches deliver a clacky sound and a feathery touch, appealing to those who enjoy a lighter typing experience and don’t mind the noise. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing environment and personal comfort preferences, as each switch offers a distinctly different experience despite their inherent mechanical qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the TTC Ice linear switch ultimately depends on your individual preferences and the specific use cases in mind. If you find yourself frequently typing in quiet environments, such as an office or a shared workspace, the Aliaz is a stellar option due to its silent operation and substantial feedback. Its heavier bottom-out force of 75 grams gives each keystroke a pronounced feel, which can enhance typing accuracy for those who appreciate tactile feedback without the accompanying noise. Conversely, if you seek a versatile and smooth typing experience, whether for gaming or casual use, the TTC Ice linear switch is the way to go. With a lighter bottom-out force of 60 grams, it allows for quick and effortless key presses, minimizing finger fatigue during lengthy sessions. Its clacky sound and crystal-clear design further add to a satisfying typing experience that balances enjoyment and performance. Therefore, consider your typing environment and what aspects—like sound, feel, and actuation force—are most important to you before making your choice.
Mentioned in this article
