TTC Ice vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and specific use cases. The TTC Ice switch stands out with its crystal-clear transparent design, delivering a visually appealing aesthetic alongside a smooth and responsive feel. This linear switch provides a satisfying bottom-out sound, making it an excellent option for gamers and typists alike who appreciate consistent feedback and a premium typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Lupine switch elevates the typing experience with its innovative two-stage long springs that offer a unique feel—balancing consistent weight distribution with a powerful rebound for an engaging typing dynamic. Known for its classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine is an enticing choice for those who enjoy a bit more auditory feedback while tapping away at their keyboards. Both switches cater to different elements of the typing and gaming experience; 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The TTC Ice and Durock Lupine switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, creating a distinct similarity in the acoustic profile of these two mechanical switches. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when the key is pressed. This material’s translucency also enhances visual effects, making it especially desirable for RGB lighting setups. Since both switches employ polycarbonate in the top housing, users can expect similar sound clarity and brightness, making either switch an excellent choice for those looking to amplify the aesthetic and auditory dimensions of their keyboard.
Contrastingly, the bottom housings of the TTC Ice and Durock Lupine switches diverge significantly. The Ice features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which maintains the same clear, resonant sound profile established by its top housing. This consistency in material across the switch leads to a unified auditory experience, ensuring a balanced acoustic feedback throughout. Conversely, the Lupine’s bottom housing is made of nylon, a material known for its softer characteristics. As a result, while typing on the Lupine, users will experience a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon’s ability to absorb sound. This contributes to a rounder auditory experience that stands in contrast to the crisper sound of the Ice.
The differing bottom housing materials result in a nuanced typing experience between the two switches. For the TTC Ice, the solidly crisp characteristics of both the top and bottom housing create a consistent feel and sound, especially evident when bottoming out. In contrast, the Durock Lupine's nylon bottom housing softens the feedback on the stroke, imparting a dulled yet pleasant experience that diverges from the Ice's sharp sound. This variation is crucial for users who prefer stylistic differences in switch feedback. Ultimately, both switches have the potential to deliver satisfying results depending on personal preference, with the Ice skewing towards a sharper clarity and the Lupine offering a mellower, fuller sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, notable differences emerge. The TTC Ice switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium force switch suitable for both typing and gaming. In contrast, the Durock Lupine switch has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 62 grams, also placing it in the medium force range. Despite the Lacune's unlisted actuation force, if it were similar to the Ice's, users could expect comparable results in terms of general feel and performance. In terms of weight, the TTC Ice is the lighter option with a lower actuation force compared to the Durock Lupine, which, while not definitively heavier, suggests a preference for a firmer typing experience for those who favor more substantial feedback in their keystrokes. Consequently, the TTC Ice may be more suitable for users who prioritize comfort over long typing sessions, while the Durock Lupine might appeal to those looking for a more robust tactile experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, the Ice switch has a distance of 3.6 mm while the Lupine switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the TTC Ice the shorter option and the Durock Lupine the longer one, although both are relatively close in feel. For users looking for a balanced switch, the Ice may provide a more responsive experience due to its shorter travel distance, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking quick actuation. On the other hand, the Lupine's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press, offering a tactile feedback that some find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding key response and depth.
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 Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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 optimally crafted bottom-out sound, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. This contrast with the Durock Lupine linear switch, which features a unique clacky sound profile, can cater to different preferences. The Ice switch's sound tends to lean toward a cleaner, more refined tone, making it suitable for both quiet environments and energetic gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Lupine’s sound profile comprises a mix of neutrality along with some high-pitched characteristics that can delight users who prefer a sharper acoustic response. While both switches can deliver satisfactory sound experiences, the choice ultimately boils down to personal preference and the typist's environment.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the TTC Ice offers a smooth, responsive experience well-liked in the community. However, the Durock Lupine provides a distinct tactile experience with its two-stage long springs, ensuring consistent weight distribution and a pronounced rebound sensation. This means the Lupine is recognized for a dual-quality feel: the gentle initial press and a more energetic rebound, allowing users to type comfortably yet dynamically. In contrast, the Ice is portrayed as smooth overall, making it appealing for those who favor a seamless typing action without an emphasis on varied resistance throughout the press.
In summary, both the TTC Ice and Durock Lupine linear switches cater to different aspects of the typing experience, offering unique sound profiles and tactile sensations. While the Ice switch focuses on a sleek, polished feel alongside a satisfying sound, the Lupine combines a clackier audio feedback with an engaging dual-spring feel. Ultimately, selecting between these two options will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired auditory experience, as both switches are designed to provide enjoyable and effective performance in various use cases.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a visually appealing switch with a smooth feel and a satisfying sound, then the TTC Ice may be your ideal choice. Its clear design adds an aesthetic touch to your setup, and its medium bottom-out force makes it versatile for both gaming and everyday typing tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that delivers a unique typing experience with consistent weight distribution during keystrokes and a bit more bounce on the rebound, the Durock Lupine would be the better option. Its classic clacky sound profile and polished finish make it engaging for long typing sessions, while the mild characteristics ensure that it remains accessible for users at any skill level. Ultimately, both switches offer a delightful experience, but your decision should hinge on whether you lean more towards visual appeal and smoothness or a richer auditory feedback and response.
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