Bsun Hutt vs. TTC Ice
An in-depth look at the Bsun Hutt and the TTC Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and intended use. The Bsun Hutt switch, with its medium-heavy spring and prominent tactile bump, delivers a snappy and invigorating typing experience. Its balanced sound profile enhances the feedback, making it a great option for those who enjoy a tactile sensation while typing, providing a sense of reassurance with each keystroke. In contrast, the TTC Ice switch caters to users seeking a linear experience, boasting a crystal-clear transparent design along with a smooth, responsive feel. Its satisfying bottom-out sound makes it versatile for both gaming and everyday tasks, appealing to those who prioritize fluidity and quiet operation over tactile feedback. Each switch has its unique characteristics that can elevate typing and gaming experiences; 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
49g
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
POK
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
20.5mm single-staged spring
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Hutt and the TTC Ice utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which significantly impacts their sound profiles. The polycarbonate material's inherent stiffness contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, enhancing the auditory experience for users. This consistency in top housing material means that both switches will likely perform similarly when it comes to sound clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly appealing for setups with RGB lighting, as it allows for effective light diffusion and aesthetic appeal in both switches.
However, a notable contrast emerges when considering the bottom housing materials of the two switches. The Bsun Hutt features a nylon bottom housing, a classic choice celebrated for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. In comparison, the TTC Ice opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing. While polycarbonate in the bottom housing also lends a crisp sound profile, the nylon found in the Hutt introduces a different auditory characteristic. This difference suggests that users may experience a more cushioned and rounded typing experience with the Hutt, while the Ice could deliver a more uniform and crisp response due to the consistent polycarbonate composition.
In summary, when both switches are pressed, the combination of housing materials results in distinct sound profiles and experiences. The Bsun Hutt's nylon bottom housing enhances the softer response of the key presses, while its polycarbonate top allows for clear sound feedback when releasing a key. Conversely, the TTC Ice, with both housings made of the same material, may present a sharper overall auditory signature, making it an option for users who prefer consistent high-pitched sounds. Ultimately, while both switches share similarities in top housing, their differing bottom housings create unique tactile and auditory experiences that cater to varied preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Hutt tactile switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Hutt switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 49 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience over extended periods. In contrast, the Ice switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which caters to users who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. While both switches offer a tactile response, the difference in their forces suggests that the Hutt is better suited for users seeking comfort during long sessions, whereas the Ice appeals to those who prefer a firmer feedback. With the Hutt being lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, it’s clear that it provides an easier keystroke, making it ideal for longer typing or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Hutt tactile switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, the Hutt features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Ice has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Ice switch requires a bit more travel effort to engage fully compared to the Hutt switch. For gamers or users who prioritize speed and responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Hutt may be more appealing, providing quicker actuation for rapid key presses. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial depth might find the Ice switch's longer travel distance more to their liking, offering a more pronounced tactile experience. In summary, the Hutt switch is the shorter option at 3.5 mm, while the Ice switch is the longer one at 3.6 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
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 Bsun Hutt tactile switch offers a resonant auditory experience characterized by a clean, sharp pitch that enhances the typing experience. This heightened sound profile provides an immersive quality, allowing users to enjoy the distinctive feedback as they type. In contrast, the TTC Ice linear switch is known for producing a satisfying bottom-out sound, which contributes to its premium typing experience. While the Ice switch's sound profile is more subdued compared to the Hutt's resonant nature, it still offers a pleasant auditory feedback suitable for both gaming and everyday use. Keep in mind that the acoustic characteristics can vary significantly based on the keyboard's build and keycap choice, making personal preference a key factor.
In terms of feel, the Hutt switch excels with several qualities that contribute to an engaging typing experience. It is described as "snappy," providing immediate responsiveness due to its medium-heavy spring. The pronounced tactile bump creates an invigorating sensation with each keystroke, making the act of typing feel more alive. Additionally, the Hutt is recognized for its sharp tactile feel, offering high feedback intensity that is distinctly noticeable upon actuation. Its accentuated nature strikes a balance by delivering a prominent tactile response without becoming overwhelming. On the other hand, the tactile feel of the TTC Ice linear switch remains unknown, but its smooth and responsive nature suggests a more gentle experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a more effortless keystroke.
In conclusion, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch provides an exhilarating combination of sound and feel, highlighted by its resonant auditory feedback and engaging tactile qualities. Its distinctive characteristics make it an ideal choice for users seeking an interactive typing experience. Meanwhile, the TTC Ice linear switch offers a premium yet different typing sensation, focusing on smoothness and a satisfying bottom-out sound. While both switches cater to different preferences, they highlight the diverse options available in the mechanical keyboard market, allowing users to select based on their individual needs and typing styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Hutt tactile switch and the TTC Ice linear switch should largely hinge on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and intended usage. If you enjoy a tactile feedback that’s both pronounced and invigorating, the Hutt switch would likely be the better fit for you. Its lighter actuation force, combined with a resonant sound profile and snappy response, makes it ideal for those who appreciate a more engaging and immersive typing experience, especially for typists who spend long hours at the keyboard or favor a more traditional and tactile feel. On the other hand, if you're a gamer or someone who seeks a smooth and responsive typing experience without the added tactile bump, the TTC Ice switch may be your best bet. With its medium weight and transparent design, it delivers a satisfying sound and smoothness that's well-suited for fast-paced gaming and daily tasks alike. Ultimately, pick the Hutt if you’re leaning towards tactile feedback and nuanced sound or choose the Ice for a sleek, linear response that's clear and seamless in your keystrokes.
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