TTC Flaming Pink vs. TTC Ice
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the TTC Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flaming Pink and TTC Ice switches, both of which are linear switches, enthusiasts will find compelling features that cater to different preferences. The Flaming Pink switch is celebrated for its smooth, responsive feel and a delightful bottom-out sound that strikes a balance between being pleasantly audible without being overpowering. It's an excellent choice for users seeking a premium typing experience that suits both gaming and day-to-day tasks. On the other hand, the TTC Ice switch stands out with its stunning crystal-clear design, offering a similar smoothness and responsiveness in feel, as well as a satisfying sound profile. This switch brings a unique aesthetic to the keyboard without compromising performance, making it equally suitable for gaming and everyday use. While both switches provide a high-quality experience, their distinctive attributes may appeal to different users based on personal preferences in sound and design. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flaming Pink and the TTC Ice exhibit both similarities and differences that significantly influence their acoustic properties and aesthetic design. Both switches share the same polycarbonate material for the top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This consistency in material results in a clear and resonant sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing makes it particularly advantageous for use with RGB lighting, allowing vibrant colors to shine through effectively. Thus, regardless of other differences, both switches will yield similar sound characteristics when it comes to the top housing, leading to an appealing visual and auditory experience.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches diverge in material choice, significantly impacting their sound profiles. While the Flaming Pink utilizes nylon for its bottom housing—known for its ability to absorb sound and create a deeper, fuller sound profile—the Ice opts for polycarbonate. The inclusion of nylon in the Flaming Pink leads to a rounder, duller sound that can feel more substantial under typing. Meanwhile, the Ice’s polycarbonate bottom housing carries forward the crisp tonal qualities seen in its top housing. The difference in bottom housing materials means that the two switches will have distinct auditory experiences, particularly influencing the sound at bottom-out moments, making the Flaming Pink more muted compared to the brighter resonance of the Ice.
Ultimately, the combination of a polycarbonate top housing with a nylon bottom housing in the Flaming Pink creates a unique sound signature that differs from the all-polycarbonate construction of the Ice. The varying materials will alter how the switches feel and sound during use, especially when a key is released. The Flaming Pink will provide a more subdued overall sound, characterized by a blend of clarity from the polycarbonate top and warmth from the nylon bottom, while the Ice will maintain a consistent brightness due to its use of polycarbonate throughout. Therefore, users who prioritize the auditory experience should consider how these material differences affect sound and feedback when selecting between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch with a 43-gram actuation force and a 50-gram bottom out force to the TTC Ice linear switch, which features a 45-gram actuation force and a 60-gram bottom out force, we observe distinct differences in their feel and usability. The Flaming Pink switch is lighter overall, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a more responsive feel during extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. In contrast, the Ice switch is slightly heavier, with its actuation and bottom out forces measuring at 45 grams and 60 grams, respectively. This added weight provides a more substantial typing experience, which may appeal to users who favor a stronger push feel beneath their fingers. Ultimately, those who prioritize a lighter touch would opt for the Flaming Pink switch, while those who appreciate more resistance might prefer the heaviness of the Ice switch.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Flaming Pink and the TTC Ice linear switches feature the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that users will experience an identical distance when pressing down on the keys. This consistency allows for a similar tactile experience between the two switches, making them potentially interchangeable in applications where key feel is essential. Since both switches have the same travel distance, you can expect similar results in terms of actuation and responsiveness, which can be an important consideration for typists and gamers alike seeking uniformity in their keyboard setup.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Flaming Pink switch is noted for its bright yet not overly loud sound profile, providing a pleasant auditory experience without being intrusive. This makes it suitable for both work and casual gaming environments where you want a satisfying feedback without disturbing others. On the other hand, while the TTC Ice switch also features a satisfying bottom-out sound, it is known for its crystal-clear transparent design that may contribute to a more distinct acoustic experience. However, the exact characteristics of the Ice's sound profile are not specified, leaving it somewhat ambiguous in comparison to the Flaming Pink.
When it comes to feel, both switches are celebrated for their smooth and responsive characteristics, offering a consistent typing experience that can be enjoyed in various settings, whether gaming or typing. The Flaming Pink switch is particularly touted for its premium feel, contributing to a tactile quality that enhances overall user satisfaction. In similar fashion, the Ice switch is also described as feeling smooth and responsive, making them equally suitable for fast-paced gaming sessions and long typing tasks. The core experience of both switches is designed for optimal performance, suggesting that users will find comparable satisfaction in them.
Overall, both the TTC Flaming Pink and Ice linear switches promise a premium typing experience, characterized by smooth actuation and enjoyable bottom-out sounds. The Flaming Pink offers a bright sound profile, while the Ice's sound characteristics remain less defined but are anticipated to be equally satisfying. In terms of feel, both switches deliver a consistent experience that caters well to gamers and typists alike. Whether one opts for the Flaming Pink or Ice, users can expect a high-quality performance with similar tactile sensations, making either choice a strong addition to a mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Flaming Pink and TTC Ice linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter switch that offers a smooth and responsive feel, the Flaming Pink is an excellent option. With its 50-gram bottom-out force, it provides a less strenuous typing experience, which can be particularly appealing for extended gaming sessions or daily typing tasks. Its satisfying sound profile strikes a balance between being pleasant and unobtrusive, making it suitable for a variety of environments, whether you're at home or in a shared workspace. On the other hand, if you find that you enjoy a bit more resistance while typing, the TTC Ice switch, with its 60-gram bottom-out force, may be more to your liking. The Ice offers a similarly smooth and responsive feel but provides a firmer feedback that can aid in precision during intense gaming. Plus, its crystal-clear transparent design can add an aesthetic flair to your setup. In summary, if ease and lightness are what you seek, go for the Flaming Pink; if you want a sturdier feel, the Ice switch is the better choice. Ultimately, either way, you can expect a premium typing experience suited for both gaming and daily use.
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