Gateron Glory Yellow vs. TTC Ice
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the TTC Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Yellow and the TTC Ice both offer unique attributes that cater to different user preferences, making them worth considering in your quest for the perfect typing experience. The Gateron Glory Yellow switches are known for their heavier feel, providing a smooth keystroke with a pleasing travel distance that many typists appreciate for its tactile feedback and satisfying actuation. Ideal for users who enjoy a firmer response while typing or gaming, these switches contribute to an overall enjoyable experience. On the other hand, TTC Ice switches boast a stunning crystal-clear design that not only looks great but also delivers a smooth and responsive feel with a satisfying bottom-out sound. These attributes make the Ice switch a versatile choice, well-suited for both gaming and everyday tasks, enhancing the overall aesthetic and auditory experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Glory Yellow and TTC Ice switches utilize different housing materials for both their top and bottom components, which ultimately contributes to their distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Glory Yellow features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is known for its softer texture and ability to absorb sound effectively. This design results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that engenders a satisfying typing experience characterized by a more muted and rounded audio feedback. In contrast, the TTC Ice switches are constructed with polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate is a stiffer material, known to enhance sound clarity and resonance. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory feedback, yielding a different tactile sensation when typing.
The differences in material properties reflect not only on the sound produced but also on the overall experience of using these switches. With the Glory Yellow's nylon components, users can expect a typing experience that emphasizes plushness and warmth. The softness of nylon allows for greater sound dampening, creating a quieter environment while typing. Conversely, the TTC Ice switches, due to their polycarbonate makeup, provide a vibrant auditory experience that may appeal to users who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke. Its rigidity plays a significant role in creating a more resonant sound when the key is released, offering a stark contrast to the acoustics provided by the Glory Yellow.
This variance in housing materials leads to different outcomes in terms of sound profile and feedback but also hints at potential synergies when used in specific setups. While the Nylon of the Glory Yellow provides warm, low tones, and the polycarbonate of the TTC Ice allows for bright, high notes, these contrasting qualities come together in a way that can be complementary in certain mechanical keyboard configurations. For example, if a user employs both types of switches without altering the layout, they can experience a diverse sound spectrum. Ultimately, while both switches bring unique characteristics from their individual materials, an understanding of how these features interact can lead to personalized typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, we find notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Glory Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Ice is slightly lighter at 45 grams. This discrepancy suggests that typists who prefer lighter switches for prolonged use might find the TTC Ice more comfortable, especially during extended typing or gaming sessions. In terms of bottom out forces, however, the Glory Yellow does not have this measurement available, making it difficult to directly compare it with the Ice's 60 grams, which indicates a firmer feel when fully pressed down. Overall, the TTC Ice offers a lighter actuation and a defined bottom out experience, while the Gateron Glory Yellow's bottom out force remains unknown, leaving its overall typing experience somewhat ambiguous. For those who prefer a heavier switch for a more substantial feel, the TTC Ice may not fulfill that need, especially since it has a relatively medium bottom out force compared to the unknown potential bottom out of the Glory Yellow.
Travel distance
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, the most notable difference lies in their travel distances—4 mm for the Glory Yellow and 3.6 mm for the Ice. The Glory Yellow's longer travel distance may appeal to users who enjoy a deeper keystroke, providing a more tactile experience that can feel more satisfying for typing. On the other hand, the TTC Ice’s shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm is designed for quicker actuation, making it more suitable for gamers who prioritize fast response times. Ultimately, if you prefer a more pronounced depth while typing, the Glory Yellow would be the better choice; however, if you lean toward a quicker and more responsive feel, the Ice is the way to go. Thus, the Gateron Glory Yellow is the longer travel switch, while the TTC Ice is the shorter option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Yellow for $4.19.
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 Gateron Glory Yellow switch tends to be a bit more muted, offering a soft bottom-out sound that some users appreciate for its subtlety. In contrast, the TTC Ice switch is known for its more pronounced bottom-out sound, which adds a satisfying auditory feedback during typing and gaming sessions. It's important to consider, however, that the overall sound experience can significantly vary depending on the keyboard’s construction and the keycap materials used.
When it comes to feel, the Glory Yellow switch is lauded for its smooth keystroke and a comfortable travel distance, contributing to a feeling of fluidity when typing. On the other hand, the TTC Ice switch also provides a smooth and responsive feel, enhancing the typing experience and making it particularly suitable for both gaming and everyday tasks. Both switches aim to deliver a pleasant tactile experience, but the unique characteristics of each can lead users to prefer one over the other based on personal comfort.
In summary, both the Gateron Glory Yellow and TTC Ice linear switches offer distinct auditory and tactile qualities that cater to different preferences. While Glory Yellow provides a more subdued sound profile alongside its smooth feel, the TTC Ice switches elevate the auditory experience with their satisfying bottom-out sound while maintaining a responsive keystroke. Ultimately, both switches can deliver enjoyable experiences, allowing users to find similar satisfaction based on their individual preferences and the specific keyboard setup they choose.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Glory Yellow and TTC Ice linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and intended use. If you're seeking a smoother, lighter keystroke experience and enjoy a travel distance that enhances comfort during extended typing sessions, the Gateron Glory Yellow may be your best option. These switches provide a unique blend of speed and ease, making them particularly suited for gaming scenarios where rapid key presses are essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a firmer bottom-out feel that gives you a bit more feedback with each keystroke, the TTC Ice switch, with its 60-gram actuation, might be the more desirable choice. Their crystal-clear design and satisfying sound profile also make them appealing for both casual typing and immersive gaming experiences. In summary, choose the Glory Yellow for a lighter, smoother experience, and opt for the Ice if you appreciate a bit more resistance and a visually striking aesthetic.
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