TTC Gold Red vs. TTC Ice
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the TTC Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Red and TTC Ice linear switches stand out as appealing options, each with its own unique characteristics. The Gold Red switches are celebrated for their buttery smooth typing experience coupled with a light to medium resistance, making them an excellent choice for users who appreciate a subtle yet responsive feel. Their low-pitched, thocky sound profile adds just the right amount of personality to any keyboard setup, enhancing the overall typing experience without overwhelming the senses. On the other hand, the TTC Ice switches are designed with a strikingly transparent construction that not only looks impressive but also provides a smooth and responsive touch. They deliver a satisfying bottom-out sound, blending style and performance, which makes them ideal for both gamers and general users seeking an elevated typing experience. While both switches offer a linear action suited for a smooth typing flow, their distinct sound profiles and visual aesthetics cater to different preferences. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and TTC Ice switches demonstrate both similarities and distinctions that have a profound impact on their sound profiles and overall user experience. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is celebrated for its ability to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This quality arises from the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which aids in producing a clear and resonant sound that is particularly appealing for users interested in aesthetic lighting effects, notably RGB. The translucency of the polycarbonate in the Gold Red and Ice allows for effective light diffusion, ensuring that both switches deliver striking visual presentations when paired with RGB lighting. This commonality in top housing material promises that users will experience similar sound characteristics, enhancing the auditory clarity regardless of which switch they choose.
However, a striking contrast appears in the bottom housing materials of the two switches. The Gold Red utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Ice opts for polycarbonate, which reinforces the sharper tonal attributes seen in its top housing. Nylon's softer composition absorbs sound waves, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience that counters the high-pitched tones of polycarbonate. In contrast, the Ice’s polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the crisp sound profile established by its top housing, leading to a consistent auditory experience that is bright and resonant. Thus, when comparing the two switches, the impact on sound quality becomes distinctly bifurcated, with the Gold Red offering a more rounded sound due to its nylon bottom and the Ice delivering a cohesive high-pitched sound profile.
When considering the overall sensations during typing, the differences in bottom housing materials mean that the feel and sound during bottoming out will vary significantly. The Gold Red’s nylon bottom will provide a softer landing, contributing to a more cushioned feel, while the Ice, with its polycarbonate bottom, offers a firmer bottoming-out sound and feel that aligns with its sharper sound profile. Furthermore, while pressing down the keys, users will generally experience the characteristics of the bottom housing, and upon release, the clearer attributes of the top housing will prevail. This dynamic interplay ensures that while the top housing might share similarities between the two models, their overall performance and user experience will be inherently different owing to the variation in bottom housing materials. Thus, users’ preferences for auditory and tactile feedback will guide them in choosing between the Gold Red and Ice switches.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch display notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Red features a light actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons, as it requires less effort to engage. In contrast, the Ice switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. While the Ice switch's actuation force is marginally higher, it ultimately provides a firmer response, which some users might find more satisfying. Overall, if you're seeking a lighter switch for prolonged use, the Gold Red is the better choice, whereas if you favor a stronger push feel, the Ice would be more suitable.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Red and TTC Ice linear switches, it is clear that they cater to different preferences. The Gold Red features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the Ice has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, positioning it as the shorter switch. The Gold Red's traditional distance may appeal to those who appreciate a deeper feel and tactile feedback, whereas the Ice's reduced travel distance aligns with the preferences of gamers seeking quicker response times. Individuals seeking responsiveness may find the Ice switch more appealing, while those who favor a substantial key press may lean toward the Gold Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference for travel distance and tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 TTC Gold Red switches is characterized by a thocky, low-pitched tone that produces a satisfying, bass-heavy thud when keys are pressed, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate a deeper auditory feedback when typing. The neutral sound quality of the Gold Red also contributes to its versatility, allowing it to blend well in various environments whether at home or in the office. In contrast, the sound qualities of the TTC Ice switches remain unspecified, leaving potential users curious about their auditory experience. However, it's important to note that the overall sound will be influenced by the choice of keyboard case and keycaps, impacting how these switches may ultimately sound.
Regarding feel, the TTC Gold Red switches provide a mild and silky typing experience. They are designed to offer a gentle resistance, making them accessible for both new and experienced users. The polished finish reduces friction and enhances the smoothness of each keystroke, creating a comfortable feel during long typing sessions. As for the TTC Ice switches, there is no detailed description of their tactile characteristics, which raises questions about the level of smoothness and feedback they might provide compared to the Gold Red.
In conclusion, while the TTC Gold Red switches deliver a gratifying sound profile and a silky smooth typing experience, the TTC Ice switches' qualities remain uncertain, particularly regarding their sound and feel. Users can expect a consistent experience with the Gold Red due to its well-documented characteristics, catering to a broad audience. For those considering both switches, it is advisable to explore further to gauge whether the Ice offers a comparable or unique experience, especially since auditory and tactile feedback can vary significantly based on external factors like switches, board types, and keycap choices.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, it ultimately depends on what kind of typing or gaming experience you desire. If you prefer a lighter keystroke that provides a silky, smooth feel with minimal resistance, the Gold Red is an excellent choice. Its 50-gram bottom-out force and relatively thocky, low-pitched sound profile make it a versatile option for both casual typing and immersive gaming sessions. It's an ideal switch if you're looking for something approachable that won't disturb those around you, making it suitable for both home and office environments. On the other hand, if you appreciate a slightly firmer feel with a medium level of resistance and a satisfying bottom-out sound, the Ice switch might be more up your alley. Though less detailed in its acoustic profile, the Ice is designed for a premium typing experience and offers versatility for both gaming and everyday use. The crystal-clear design adds a touch of aesthetic flair to your setup, making it a compelling choice for those who want both performance and style. In essence, choose the Gold Red for smoothness and a quieter sound for shared spaces, while the Ice is your go-to for a more tactile experience and a standout appearance.
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