TTC Ice vs. Bsun Jade Rosales
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Bsun Jade Rosales switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Ice and Bsun Jade Rosales are two impressive linear options that offer distinct advantages for users. The TTC Ice stands out not only for its sleek crystal-clear design but also for its smooth and responsive feel, along with a satisfying bottom-out sound that enhances the overall typing experience — making it an excellent choice for both gamers and everyday typists. On the other hand, the Bsun Jade Rosales switches, born from a year of meticulous refinement by XY Studio, boast custom housings, stems, and advanced lubrication techniques that culminate in an exceptionally smooth typing experience. While the Ice switches may appeal to those who appreciate a visually striking aesthetic coupled with a satisfying auditory feedback, the Jade Rosales caters to enthusiasts seeking an ultra-smooth and finely tuned keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3X
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Custom Milky Material
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
20.5mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Ice switch and the Bsun Jade Rosales switch, it's evident that both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. The choice of polycarbonate in this context reflects a commitment to enhancing the auditory experience, as this material is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, it contributes to clarity and resonance, which can be particularly noticeable during key release, where the top housing’s influence prevails. Moreover, the clear nature of polycarbonate allows for effective diffusion of RGB lighting, making both switches aesthetically appealing for users who appreciate illuminated keyboards.
However, the similarity in top housing materials diverges when it comes to the bottom housing of the two switches. The TTC Ice employs a polycarbonate bottom housing that shares the same tonal characteristics as its top counterpart, further reinforcing the crisp sound profile associated with the switch. In contrast, the Bsun Jade Rosales features a proprietary blend termed Custom Milky Material for its bottom housing. While specific details of this custom blend remain unclear, the difference in material indicates potential distinctions in feel and sound profile. The properties of the bottom housing significantly affect the bottom-out sound and overall tactile experience when the switch is actuated, emphasizing how the unique composition of the Jade Rosales could differentiate it from the Ice.
Despite the deviations in bottom housing materials, users can still achieve similar sound profiles when pressing the keys of either switch. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches ensures a consistent auditory sharpness and resonance that is designed to enhance the overall typing or gaming experience. For users prioritizing an engaging auditory experience with RGB lighting compatibility, both switches will likely meet expectations through their polycarbonate top housings. The bottom housing differences may offer a unique tactile feel, but the shared polycarbonate top allows for a convergence of sound profile characteristics within this comparison.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch, both switches exhibit the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that users will experience a similar effort required to trigger a keystroke on both switches. However, their bottom out forces diverge, with the Ice switch reaching 60 grams compared to the Jade Rosales’s lighter 53 grams. This difference means that while both switches allow for easy actuation, users will feel a more substantial push with the Ice switch when it is bottomed out, offering a firmer typing experience. Consequently, the TTC Ice is regarded as the heavier switch, providing a more pronounced resistance at full travel, whereas the Jade Rosales is the lighter option, favoring those who may prefer a softer bottoming out experience for extended typing sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch, we see that the Ice has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jade Rosales measures at 3.5 mm. This indicates that the Ice switch offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jade Rosales. For users who appreciate a more pronounced depth when pressing down on keys, the TTC Ice may be the preferable choice, as its 3.6 mm travel provides a more substantial feel. In contrast, those who favor quicker response times—often preferred by gamers—might opt for the Jade Rosales, given its shorter 3.5 mm distance, which can facilitate faster actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will hinge on personal preference for either a more hearty feel or a quicker response.
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 Bsun Jade Rosales has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jade Rosales for $5.39.
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 TTC Ice linear switch produces a bottom-out sound that is regarded as satisfying, contributing to the overall premium typing experience. While specific sound characteristics for the Jade Rosales switch are not detailed, it’s important to note that the sound profile of any switch can vary significantly based on the keyboard it’s mounted on and the type of keycaps used, which means both switches could potentially deliver a similar auditory experience under the right conditions.
When considering the feel, the Ice switch is noted for its smooth and responsive action, making it suitable for both gaming and typing. In contrast, the Jade Rosales switch stands out for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, a result of meticulous refinement involving custom housings, stems, and lubrication. While both switches prioritize a smooth feel, the Jade Rosales may offer an elevated level of smoothness due to the extensive development process it underwent.
In summary, while the TTC Ice switch impresses with its satisfying sound and smooth feel, the Jade Rosales emphasizes an exceptionally refined typing experience through careful design and materials. Both options stand out in their own right, catering to users who prioritize smooth action and sound in their mechanical keyboards. Depending on your specific preferences and the setup you choose, both switches can provide a comparable level of satisfaction, making either a solid choice for newcomers diving into the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch, your preferences for feel, sound, and actuation force will guide your choice. If you prefer a slightly firmer typing experience, the TTC Ice switch, with its bottom-out force of 60 grams, offers a satisfying resistance that many gamers and typists find responsive and tailored for both intensive sessions and casual usage. The shimmering transparent design adds an aesthetic flair to your keyboard, making it a visually pleasing choice alongside its smooth actuation and appealing bottom-out sound. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch and seek an exceptionally smooth typing experience, the Bsun Jade Rosales, with its 53 grams of bottom-out force, is designed for you. These switches have been meticulously refined to minimize friction and produce a silky feeling with a pleasant sound profile, ideally suited for long typing sessions and those who prioritize comfort and ease of use. Ultimately, both switches deliver high-quality performance, so your selection should reflect your personal preferences for switch resistance, typing sound, and tactile feedback.
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