TTC Ice vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, selecting the right one can significantly impact your typing and gaming experience. The TTC Ice switch stands out with its crystal-clear transparent design, providing a smooth and responsive feel along with a satisfying bottom-out sound. This linear switch is ideal for users who value a premium experience for both gaming and everyday use, making it a versatile choice. On the other hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch introduces a unique hall effect mechanism, characterized by its bright and clacky sound, which makes it an excellent upgrade for those using Wooting keyboards. This switch caters to enthusiasts looking for superior acoustics and a distinct typing experience. While the TTC Ice emphasizes smoothness and versatility, the Magnetic Jade prioritizes auditory feedback and an innovative design. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Ice and the Gateron Magnetic Jade, it's clear that both switches use polycarbonate for their top housings. This commonality results in a similar auditory experience characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's inherent stiffness contributes to this distinct sound quality, ensuring each keystroke resonates clearly. Moreover, the translucence of polycarbonate makes it advantageous for switches designed to accommodate RGB lighting, allowing the illumination to shine through effectively. Therefore, users of both switches can expect a bright and vibrant aesthetic alongside consistent sound characteristics from the top housing.
However, the bottom housing materials diverge significantly between the two switches. The TTC Ice utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, further enhancing the crispness of the sound produced during typing. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. Nylon’s ability to absorb sound leads to a more muted response, leading to a distinctly different tactile experience when typing. Users of the Magnetic Jade will notice a rounder audio quality during key presses, which can create a more cushioned feel compared to the sharper sound produced by the combination of polycarbonate in the Ice.
Consequently, the differences between the bottom housings of the TTC Ice and the Gateron Magnetic Jade present a nuanced contrast in user experience. While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the impact of the bottom housing is paramount in defining the overall sound and feel. The Ice's polycarbonate bottom contributes to its sharper auditory response, while the Magnetic Jade's nylon housing enhances the experience with a softer and fuller sound. Thus, even though both switches utilize polycarbonate at the top, the differentiating factors in the bottom housing create a diverse range of auditory and tactile experiences for users. Anyone looking for a balance of sharpness and depth may need to choose based on their personal preferences for these contrasting sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ice switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium weight option. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade switch features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a slightly lower bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This means that the Ice switch requires a stronger push to actuate, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience, while the Magnetic Jade switch allows for easier keystrokes, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming without as much fatigue. Overall, the TTC Ice is the heavier switch, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade is the lighter alternative.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences in typing feel and responsiveness. The TTC Ice switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Magnetic Jade is the faster option, providing a quicker response time, which may be appealing for gamers seeking immediate feedback. On the other hand, the Ice switch with its longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying depth for those who appreciate a more substantial tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether one prioritizes responsiveness or a more pronounced key press sensation.
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 Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Ice linear switch delivers a satisfying bottom-out sound that enhances the premium typing experience it offers. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches provide a bright and clacky sound, which can be quite appealing, especially for users who enjoy a more dynamic audio feedback while typing. It's important to note that the sound profile can be influenced by various factors, including the keyboard itself and the selection of keycaps, but generally, the TTC Ice tends to offer a smoother acoustic presence compared to the livelier auditory feedback of the Magnetic Jade.
In terms of feel, the TTC Ice switches are celebrated for their smooth and responsive action, making them ideal for both gaming and everyday tasks. They provide a fluid typing experience without any noticeable bumps. On the other hand, the Magnetic Jade switches, being hall effect switches, are designed to enhance the tactile experience, offering a unique feedback due to their magnetic mechanism. This may result in a distinct sensation when pressed, appealing to users looking for more engagement with each keystroke. While both switches cater to users seeking quality, they each bring their own unique character to the typing experience.
Overall, both the TTC Ice and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches present compelling options for different user preferences. The Ice offers a smooth feel and a satisfying sound suitable for a wide array of tasks, while the Magnetic Jade stands out with its lively auditory feedback and engaging tactile sensation. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users might gravitate towards one or the other, but both are likely to provide an elevated typing experience worthy of consideration.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a smooth, responsive feel with a premium typing experience, especially for a mix of gaming and everyday tasks, the Ice switch with its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams and satisfying sound will likely be your best bet. It's ideal for those who appreciate a clear aesthetic since it features a striking transparent design. On the other hand, if you're looking for a slightly lighter action with a more pronounced acoustic feedback, the Magnetic Jade is your go-to, particularly if you’re upgrading a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. With a bottom-out force of 55 grams and a bright, clacky sound profile, it excels in providing an engaging typing experience that caters to both performance and auditory enjoyment. Ultimately, whether you choose the Ice for its premium feel or the Magnetic Jade for its lively acoustics, both switches offer remarkable qualities tailored to different typing styles and preferences.
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