TTC Ice vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Ice and Gateron Ink Yellow both offer unique features tailored to different preferences despite both being linear switches. The TTC Ice is renowned for its stunning crystal-clear design and delivers a smooth, responsive typing experience complemented by a satisfying bottom-out sound. This makes it not only visually appealing but also ideal for gamers and typists alike who prioritize a premium feel in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch stands out with its shorter travel distance, providing a typing sensation that sits comfortably between a laptop and a traditional mechanical keyboard. Known for its pleasant smoothness and mild clackiness, it caters to users who appreciate a balanced typing experience. Whether you are inclined towards the elegant aesthetics and sound of the Ice or the refined feel and versatility of the Ink Yellow, your choice will depend on your typing style and usage needs. 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
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The TTC Ice and Gateron Ink Yellow switches utilize different housing materials, which leads to distinct sound profiles and user experiences. The Ice switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, known for its clarity and resonance, contributing to a higher-pitched and crisper sound. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, allowing for sharper acoustics and a more pronounced sound when a key is released. This quality makes it particularly effective for those who favor RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the illumination effects. In contrast, the Ink Yellow employs Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its top housing. This material provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky yet not overly sharp, marking a difference in character between the two switches.
Both the Ice and Ink Yellow switches use their respective housing materials to achieve a satisfying sound profile, though the differences in material properties affect the overall acoustics. The bottom housing of the Ice also utilizes polycarbonate, reinforcing the higher-pitched and crisper sound profile throughout the switch. This consistency contributes to a unified performance when bottoming out or releasing keys, as the polycarbonate's characteristics permeate both housings. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow's bottom housing is made from the proprietary INK blend, which maintains a high-pitched sound but with a more pronounced clackiness. The separation of materials allows for a variation in how they feel and sound during use, particularly concerning the bottom-out experience versus the release sound.
When comparing both switches, it's important to note that while they employ different materials, the overall auditory results can remain similar in terms of high-pitched sound profiles. The Ice's polycarbonate housing tends to produce a clearer and sharper sound, while the Ink Yellow's INK blend offers a satisfying clack that appeals to many. If users appreciate the high pitch and resonant characteristics found in the Ice, they may likely enjoy the Ink Yellow as well, albeit with some tonal differences. Therefore, individuals looking for a specific type of sound may find that switching between these two models could yield comparable satisfaction despite the contrasting materials used in their construction.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation force and bottom out force. The TTC Ice has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option, which can be advantageous for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Yellow requires a stronger actuation force of 60 grams, providing a heavier typing experience that some users may prefer for a more substantial feel. Additionally, while the TTC Ice's bottom out force is 60 grams, indicating a moderate resistance upon bottoming out, the Ink Yellow has a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, reinforcing its medium-heavy classification. Therefore, if a user seeks a lighter switch for comfort and reduced fatigue, the TTC Ice would be the preferred choice, whereas those who enjoy a firmer resistance and deeper feedback might lean towards the Gateron Ink Yellow.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, the Ice switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ink Yellow switch measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. The TTC Ice switch features a more substantial travel depth, which might appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced keystroke, offering a feeling of assurance with each key press. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Yellow's shorter travel distance could cater more to gamers or those seeking quicker response times, allowing for potentially faster actuation during gameplay. While both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances, the Ice switch ultimately provides a marginally deeper experience for those who appreciate a hearty keystroke, whereas the Ink Yellow may feel more abrupt and immediate for users focused on speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, both offer distinctly different auditory experiences. The Ice switch produces a notably clacky sound, characterized by its sharp and snappy quality, which adds a lively element to typing and gaming sessions. This sound can be accentuated by the keyboard and keycap choices, giving it a bright and percussive edge. In contrast, while the Ink Yellow is also described as clacky, it possesses a neutral sound profile alongside its clacky nature, making it versatile for use in various environments. Its moderate sound makes it suitable for both casual and professional settings, ensuring that it won’t be too intrusive whether at home or in an office.
In terms of feel, the Ice linear switch offers a feathery touch, making it exceptionally light to press. This quality minimizes finger fatigue, allowing users to enjoy extended typing or gaming sessions without discomfort. The gentle actuation force creates a responsively smooth typing experience tailored for those who value ease during long periods of use. The Ink Yellow, on the other hand, provides a mild feel with a polished finish. This milder touch is more approachable, maintaining comfort while giving users a refined and sleek experience. The combination of its features ensures a smooth key travel, making it a good choice for those who are transitioning from laptop keyboards or want a balance between different typing experiences.
In conclusion, both the TTC Ice and Gateron Ink Yellow switches cater to different preferences while sharing some similarities. The Ice excels in providing a light, responsive touch with a bright clackiness, perfect for those who enjoy a more dynamic typing experience. Meanwhile, the Ink Yellow strikes a balance between a milder feel and an adaptable sound profile, making it suitable for a broader range of uses. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will rest on personal preference, particularly regarding sound dynamics and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, consider your specific typing needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a smooth and feathery typing experience that’s particularly gentle on your fingers, the Ice switch might be the better choice. Its 60-gram bottom-out force provides a balanced feel that is well-suited for extended use, whether it's for gaming or everyday work. The clacky sound profile also adds a fun auditory element that many typists enjoy. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch that offers a bit more feedback with a 67-gram bottom-out force, the Ink Yellow is a great option. This switch not only features a shorter travel distance for quicker key presses but also combines a polished feel with a clacky sound that strikes a nice balance between clarity and warmth. Ultimately, if you prioritize a lightweight, effortless experience, go for the TTC Ice, but if you desire a more robust typing experience that still maintains smoothness, the Gateron Ink Yellow will likely serve you best.
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