KTT Ash Gray vs. TTC Ice
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Ice offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Ash Gray switch shines with its thoughtful design that delivers a tactile response marked by a substantial yet unobtrusive feel; it strikes a balance between a light touch and a crisp actuation, making it an excellent choice for typists who appreciate subtle feedback without the overwhelming sensation often found in more pronounced tactile switches. In contrast, the TTC Ice offers a linear experience that emphasizes smoothness and responsiveness, highlighted by its striking crystal-clear design and satisfying bottom-out sound, perfect for gamers and everyday users looking for a seamless typing experience. While the Ash Gray is ideal for those who enjoy tactile reminders with their keystrokes, the Ice appeals to those who prefer a fluid, uninterrupted motion. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and TTC Ice switches, it is essential to note that both the top housings are made from polycarbonate, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This shared material attributes to a more clear and resonant auditory experience due to polycarbonate's rigidity. The translucency of this plastic also adds aesthetic value, particularly for users who enjoy integrating RGB lighting into their setups. As a result, the acoustic properties and visual appeal of both switches are enhanced by the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, allowing users to expect a similar performance in terms of sound clarity and lighting effects.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches diverge significantly, with the KTT Ash Gray featuring a nylon bottom and the TTC Ice utilizing a polycarbonate bottom. Nylon, a classic material in switch design, contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller, rounder auditory experience. Meanwhile, the TTC Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing aligns with the characteristics of its top housing, delivering a clear and resonant sound similar to that of the Ash Gray’s top housing. This contrasting choice of bottom housing material will influence the tactile feel and sound produced when the keys bottom out, with the Ash Gray providing a more subdued sound compared to the sharper tones produced by the Ice.
In summary, while both the KTT Ash Gray and TTC Ice switches share polycarbonate top housings that enhance sound clarity and enable RGB lighting, their differing bottom housing materials lead to distinct auditory experiences. The Ash Gray’s nylon bottom will create a more muted sound profile, enriching the overall typing experience with a rounded quality, while the Ice’s polycarbonate bottom housing will maintain that crispness throughout the entire key press. Ultimately, the combined elements of each switch result in a unique synthesis of sound and feel, affecting user preference based on individual typing sensations and desired acoustic feedback.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge, affecting the overall typing experience. The Ash Gray features an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option that appeals to those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience for extended usage, such as long work sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the TTC Ice has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium category. This added resistance may cater to users who favor a more substantial and deliberate keystroke. Consequently, the Ash Gray is the lighter switch, providing a more forgiving tactile experience, while the Ice is heavier, offering a firmer push that some typists may find more satisfying. Overall, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a lighter touch or the deeper feedback of a sturdier switch.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Ice linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Ash Gray offers a more responsive feel, which can be particularly appealing for gamers seeking quicker key presses. Conversely, the TTC Ice’s 3.6 mm travel distance may be favored by those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes, providing a more traditional typing experience. With both switches being relatively close in terms of travel distance, users can expect somewhat similar responsiveness, though the Ice may feel marginally more pronounced during typing due to its additional millimeter. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to individual preference for depth versus speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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
The sound profile of the KTT Ash Gray switch is characterized as neutral, producing a moderate actuation sound that is neither overly loud nor too quiet. This balanced audio output makes it versatile, appealing to both beginners and seasoned typists alike, whether they're typing at home or in a more professional setting. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the sound of the TTC Ice linear switch, which means that the comparison in this aspect remains inconclusive. However, it's worth noting that sound quality can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps used, meaning that users could achieve a satisfactory auditory experience with either switch.
When it comes to feel, the Ash Gray switch excels with its easy-to-press nature and mild tactile feedback. It strikes a balance where the resistance is gentle enough to minimize finger fatigue over long typing sessions, yet provides a satisfying tactile response that is noticeable without being overwhelming. This creates a comfortable typing experience that many users will find accessible. On the other hand, there is no detailed information provided about the feel of the TTC Ice linear switch. Therefore, it’s challenging to draw direct comparisons regarding this dimension of the typing experience.
In summary, the KTT Ash Gray offers a neutral sound profile and a comfortable, easy-to-press tactile feel, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of users. While the sound quality of the TTC Ice linear switch remains unknown and its tactile experience is not described, it is likely that they would still provide a premium typing experience suitable for everyday use. Overall, users can expect a pleasant typing experience with either switch, though the KTT Ash Gray may provide more clearly defined tactile feedback and sound quality.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Ice linear switch will significantly depend on your typing style and preferences. If you're looking for a switch that provides a satisfying tactile response without being overly pronounced, the Ash Gray is an excellent option. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams combined with its easy-to-press design makes it particularly suitable for those who spend long hours typing, as it minimizes finger fatigue while still delivering a noticeable tactile feedback. This makes it a great choice for typists who appreciate a mix of comfort and a gentle tactile sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a bit more resistance and a pronounced bottom-out sound, the TTC Ice linear switch may be more to your liking. With its heavier 60 grams of actuation force, this switch excels in providing a fluid and responsive feel that benefits both gaming and everyday use. Ultimately, if you favor a straightforward, quiet performance for work or gaming, and enjoy the aesthetics of a transparent switch, the Ice linear switch would be your go-to. As you weigh these options, consider your primary activities—whether you're typing extensively or engaging in fast-paced gaming, as both switches cater to specific needs and preferences in the keyboard experience.
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