TTC Ice vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Ice and Gateron Mars offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The TTC Ice switch is well-regarded for its striking crystal-clear transparent design, providing not only a smooth and responsive typing experience but also an appealing aesthetic. Its satisfying bottom-out sound makes it suitable for both gaming and everyday tasks, appealing to typists who enjoy a premium feel. On the other hand, Gateron Mars switches bring innovation to the table with their unique POK stem combined with a durable housing crafted from a blend of Nylon and POM. This combination enhances stability and longevity while offering a consistently smooth keystroke, making it an attractive choice for those who prioritize durability and performance. Both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, yet they present different advantages that might sway your choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Ice and Gateron Mars switches exhibit notable differences that contribute to their distinct auditory experiences. The TTC Ice features a polycarbonate top housing, which, due to its stiffer plastic composition, produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic makes the Ice particularly appealing for users seeking an energetic and clear acoustic feedback when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Mars utilizes a nylon top housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory experience. Consequently, while the Ice aims for clarity and brightness, the Mars offers a more subdued and textured typing sound.
When we turn our attention to the bottom housings of these switches, we observe a similar pattern of contrast. The Ice's bottom housing is also made of polycarbonate, reinforcing the sharp and resonant sound profile established by its top housing. This consistency in material across both housings amplifies the overall effect, creating a cohesive auditory experience that resonates well with users who appreciate a bright typing sound. Conversely, the Mars employs a POM (polyoxymethylene) bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper, more muted sound profile, providing a unique auditory quality distinct from the Ice switches. Thus, the combination of these materials not only defines the switches' individual sound characteristics but also underscores the profound impact that the choice of material has on the typing experience.
In summary, the differences in housing materials between the TTC Ice and Gateron Mars directly shape their sound profiles and the overall typing experience. While the Ice seeks to create a brighter and clearer auditory landscape through its uniform polycarbonate housing, the Mars presents a more rounded and fuller sound with its nylon top and POM bottom housings. If both switches were to utilize the same materials across their housings, as with the Ice’s polycarbonate in both top and bottom, users would notice a more consistent sound profile that enhances the overall clarity and resonance of the switch. Ultimately, the choice of housing materials plays a pivotal role in defining both the auditory and tactile sensations that each switch offers to its users, showcasing how material decisions can greatly influence the keyboard experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, both switches feature an identical actuation force of 45 grams. This means that users will experience the same level of resistance when pressing down to register a keystroke, making both switches suitable for extended typing sessions. However, the TTC Ice switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a slightly firmer feel when fully depressed, whereas the Gateron Mars switch does not have its bottom out force disclosed. Consequently, while the actuation forces align, the TTC Ice provides a medium bottoming out experience, contributing to a more substantial typing sensation. Therefore, those who prefer a lighter touch may find similar performance between the two at the actuation level, but the TTC Ice offers a heavier bottom out, which could appeal more to users who appreciate a tactile feedback upon completion of a keystroke. Without a known bottom out force for the Mars, it remains uncertain how it compares in that regard.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that both switches will yield similar keystroke experiences in terms of the distance traveled from the top to the bottom when pressed. This equal travel distance contributes to a comparable tactile response, making either switch a suitable choice for those who prefer linear feel without any tactile bump or audible click. Since both switches share this same measurement, users can expect consistent performance in their typing or gaming activities, with no one switch offering a shorter or longer travel distance than the other.
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 Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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, which contributes to an enjoyable auditory experience when typing or gaming. This switch’s crystal-clear transparent design not only appeals visually but enhances sound projection, making each keystroke feel more pronounced. In contrast, while the sound characteristics of the Gateron Mars switch are not explicitly detailed, its innovative design suggests a potentially unique auditory quality influenced by the materials used in its construction. However, it’s important to remember that the overall sound profile of any switch can be significantly affected by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the TTC Ice switch is praised for its smooth and responsive action, providing a premium typing experience that is ideal for both gamers and typists who value quick, uninterrupted keystrokes. Conversely, the tactile qualities of the Gateron Mars switch are not well-documented. Nonetheless, the combination of its POK stem and a housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM may offer distinctive characteristics, potentially leading to a unique tactile experience that avid users will appreciate.
Taking all of this information into account, both the TTC Ice and Gateron Mars linear switches present intriguing options for those looking to enhance their typing experience. The Ice is likely to be preferred for its known satisfying sound and smooth feel, making it versatile for various uses. Meanwhile, the Mars switch, despite lacking detailed sound and feel descriptions, may still appeal to users seeking a new sensory experience, especially with its innovative materials. Ultimately, selecting between these two will depend on personal preferences and which qualities resonate most with the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, both the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch have their unique merits that cater to different preferences. If you appreciate a smooth, responsive typing experience paired with a satisfying bottom-out sound, the TTC Ice switch is likely the better option for you. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams strikes a nice balance, making it suitable for both gaming marathons and day-to-day typing tasks, especially if you enjoy tactile feedback and a noise that can be satisfying in a shared workspace or during late-night gaming sessions. Conversely, if you seek a switch that offers innovative design elements and an unmatched premium feel, then the Gateron Mars may be the ideal choice. With its unique POK stem and a nylon-POM housing, the Mars provides a distinctive performance, excelling in environments where nuance and subtlety in keystrokes matter. While sound characteristics aren't specified for the Mars, if you find yourself preferring a potentially quieter operation with a more refined feel, that could add to your gaming or typing experience. Ultimately, your decision will depend on whether you're looking for a versatile switch with a classic appeal like the Ice or an innovative design that prioritizes a unique feel and construction such as the Mars.
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