TTC Ice vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink

Overview

When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Ice and Gateron Ink Box Pink offer intriguing options for enthusiasts seeking a tailored typing experience. The TTC Ice switches are celebrated for their crystal-clear transparent design, providing a smooth and responsive tactile feel that ensures satisfying bottom-out feedback—making them an excellent choice for both gaming and daily tasks. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches deliver a lighter typing experience, characterized by their high-pitched clack and silky-smooth actuation. These aesthetically pleasing switches stand out for their polished finish, appealing to those who appreciate both performance and visual elegance. Ultimately, while one may prefer the TTC Ice for its robust feel and premium sound, others might gravitate towards the Ink Box Pink for its airy touch and distinctive acoustic signature. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your specific needs.

By the numbers

TTC Ice Linear

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Ice switches and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches, both employ plastics designed to enhance sound clarity and provide an engaging typing experience. The TTC Ice switches use polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This creates a sharper, crisper sound profile that resonates well, making it ideal for users who appreciate the aesthetic benefits of RGB lighting, as the clear housing allows for vibrant illumination effects. The aesthetic advantage of polycarbonate contributes to both the visual appeal and the audio characteristics, making the Ice switch a popular choice among enthusiasts seeking luminosity alongside auditory satisfaction.

Conversely, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches feature a proprietary INK blend material for both the top and bottom housings. While it differs from polycarbonate in composition, it similarly prioritizes producing a high-pitched and pointed sound profile. The clacky sound associated with the Ink Box Pink switches mirrors the crispness provided by polycarbonate but strikes a balance that ensures it is not overly sharp. Thus, while both switches aim for a clear and engaging auditory experience, the specific qualities brought by the INK blend manifest in a distinct yet satisfying sound signature, catering to slightly different preferences in tactile feedback.

Despite the differences in material, the impact of sound profile and key feel can exhibit similarities due to the high-pitched characteristics of both housing options. In each case, the performance of the bottom housing is important for the bottom-out sound, while the top housing contributes significantly to the auditory experience during the release of a key. Users might find that both switches provide a bright, engaging typing experience, albeit through different materials—polycarbonate in the case of the TTC Ice and the proprietary INK blend for the Ink Box Pink. Whether one prefers the sharper clarity of polycarbonate or the clack produced by the INK blend, each switch demonstrates how specific material choices can shape a shared goal of satisfying auditory feedback during use.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, notable differences can be observed in their actuation forces. The Ice switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, which makes it lighter and potentially more suitable for users who prefer longer typing sessions or gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Ink Box Pink requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some typists may appreciate. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating that once pressed down fully, the resistance felt is consistent between them. Therefore, those seeking a lighter typing experience might gravitate towards the Ice switch, while individuals desiring a firmer push while typing or gaming might opt for the Ink Box Pink. Ultimately, choosing between them will depend on personal preferences regarding weight and actuation response.

Travel distance

Both the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means that when pressed, both switches will provide a consistent feel and response throughout their actuation. This similarity ensures that users will experience comparable keypress feedback and performance, making either switch a suitable choice for those who prefer a linear feel. With equal travel distances, both switches are designed to deliver a uniform typing experience, allowing for similar results in terms of keystroke depth and actuation behavior.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TTC Ice linear switch delivers a satisfying bottom-out sound that is characterized as smooth and responsive, providing an overall premium auditory experience. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is known for producing a higher-pitched, clacky sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. The more pronounced auditory feedback of the Ink Box Pink can add a layer of enjoyment for those who appreciate a sharper, snappier sound profile, especially in a gaming context. It's worth noting that the specific acoustics can also be influenced by the keyboard construction and keycap material.

When it comes to feel, the TTC Ice switch boasts a smooth, responsive action that contributes to its reputation for providing a satisfying typing experience. Meanwhile, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is celebrated for its silky and polished feel, which enhances smoothness and minimizes resistance during key presses. The combination of these qualities results in a refined typing experience that makes these switches appealing for both casual typing and gaming, although the Ink Box Pink may offer a slightly lighter touch compared to the Ice.

In conclusion, both the TTC Ice and Gateron Ink Box Pink switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Ice provides a smooth and satisfying bottom-out sound, while the Ink Box Pink excels with its crisper, high-pitched clack. On the feel front, the Ice is responsive and smooth, whereas the Ink Box Pink stands out for its silky, polished typing experience. For users who prioritize auditory feedback, the Ink Box Pink offers a more pronounced sound, while both switches ensure a pleasant tactile experience. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prefer more responsiveness and a satisfying sound or a lighter touch and a sharper auditory profile.

Conclusion

To conclude, the decision between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. If you favor a smooth and responsive typing experience with a satisfying bottom-out sound, the TTC Ice switch would be an excellent choice, particularly if you appreciate a more understated acoustic profile. Its crystal-clear, transparent design not only enhances aesthetics but also provides a delightful tactile sensation that works well for both gaming and everyday tasks. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more auditory typing experience with a higher-pitched clacky sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink may be the switch for you. These switches deliver a silky and polished typing feel that can make your keystrokes enjoyable, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch and appreciate the crispness of sound. Ultimately, whether you choose the Ice or the Ink Box Pink, you can find satisfaction in either switch depending on whether you're seeking a premium, smooth typing experience or a bright, percussive auditory feedback.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Ice Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more