TTC Ice vs. Neo Lavender HE
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Neo Lavender HE switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Ice and the Neo Lavender HE present two appealing yet distinct options for enthusiasts seeking the perfect typing experience. The TTC Ice, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth and responsive actuation coupled with a gratifying bottom-out sound, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike who appreciate a premium feel during use. Its crystal-clear transparent design adds an aesthetic touch that enhances any keyboard. On the other hand, the Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, offers a unique magnetic actuation mechanism that results in a clean, low sound profile while seamlessly integrating with Wooting keyboards. This innovative design not only contributes to a distinctive typing experience but also caters to users prioritizing performance and versatility. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, be it the satisfying tactile sensation of the Ice or the advanced functionality of the Lavender HE; 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Ice and the Neo Lavender HE, the primary distinction lies in their choice of materials: polycarbonate versus nylon. The TTC Ice utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. This choice promotes a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which is characteristic of polycarbonate due to its relatively stiff composition. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances its utility for RGB lighting, allowing for more brilliant and vivid illumination, thereby combining functionality with aesthetic appeal. As such, the Ice switch will often produce clearer and more resonant sounds, making it a favorable option for those looking for a bright auditory feedback.
In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE employs nylon for its top and bottom housings. Nylon is traditionally recognized for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is attributable to its softer plastic nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder auditory experience compared to the sharper notes produced by polycarbonate. Consequently, typing on the Lavender HE will evoke a more muted response, which may appeal to users seeking a softer touch and a less jarring auditory feedback as compared to the clicky notes of the Ice.
Despite the differences in materials, both switches can yield enjoyable results for keyboard enthusiasts, albeit in contrasting ways. The TTC Ice will deliver a crisp and clear sound profile, particularly favoring users who appreciate the bright resonance typically associated with polycarbonate, while the Neo Lavender HE will cater to those who prefer a more subdued and rounded auditory experience courtesy of nylon. Ultimately, the distinction in sound and feel will be most pronounced during bottom-out and key release scenarios. Users looking for a balanced combination of these properties could experiment with hybrid configurations, as the qualities of the top and bottom housing will influence the overall switch performance and user experience.
Weight
When examining the TTC Ice linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The TTC Ice features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium force switch, which provides a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer for a tactile feel. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who favor a quicker, less strenuous keystroke, especially during extended typing or gaming sessions. Overall, while both switches perform well, the TTC Ice is the heavier option, making it suitable for users who enjoy a firmer push, whereas the Neo Lavender HE is the lighter choice, appealing to those who prioritize comfort and reduced fatigue over longer usage periods.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, the TTC Ice features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Neo Lavender HE has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Ice switch offers a shorter travel distance, which can enhance responsiveness, making it particularly appealing to gamers who prefer quick key presses for faster response times. On the other hand, the Lavender HE's 3.8 mm travel distance may provide a more substantial feel when typing, appealing to those who appreciate a more traditional, hearty depth in their switches. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter, more responsive feel or a longer, more defined travel experience.
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 Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50 per 10 switches.
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 is known for its satisfying bottom-out sound, providing a premium auditory experience that is both crisp and refined. This makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic feedback when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch produces a cleaner and lower sound, which can offer a more subdued auditory experience. This characteristic can be particularly appealing for users who prefer a quieter typing environment, making both switches versatile but catering to slightly different sound preferences. Ultimately, both sound profiles can be further influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, which can enhance or mute these inherent qualities.
When it comes to feel, the Ice switch is celebrated for its smooth and responsive action, providing a seamless typing experience that encourages fast and accurate keystrokes. Users can expect a consistent linear motion without any tactile bumps, making it ideal for rapid gaming and fluid typing tasks. On the other hand, the Lavender HE switch is still somewhat of an unknown in terms of feel. However, hall effect switches are generally noted for their consistent actuation and durability, potentially offering a very satisfying typing experience as well. While one can anticipate a different sensation from each, the Ice clearly stands out for its proven smoothness.
In summary, the TTC Ice linear switch offers a crisp sound and smooth feel, making it a top contender for those seeking a dynamic typing and gaming experience. The Neo Lavender HE, with its low sound profile, presents a quieter alternative that could fit well in more serene environments, though its tactile feedback remains to be fully understood. Both switches bring unique qualities to the table, and users might choose between them based on their preferred sound environment and the overall typing experience they desire.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, consider your primary typing or gaming needs and preferences. If you prefer a more medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, the TTC Ice switch may be the ideal choice for you, especially if you enjoy a smooth, responsive feel paired with a satisfying sound that enhances the overall typing experience. The crystal-clear design and premium finish make it visually appealing as well, which can elevate your keyboard setup. Conversely, if you lean towards a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 50 grams, the Neo Lavender HE switch could be the better option. Its clean, low sound profile offers a quieter environment, which can be particularly beneficial if you’re in a shared or open space. Moreover, the Lavender HE is designed to work seamlessly with Wooting keyboards, making it an excellent choice if you're looking to utilize advanced features such as analog input. Ultimately, your choice should reflect both your tactile preferences and the environments in which you'll be using your keyboard.
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