TTC Ice vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Ice and Gateron Melodic offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The TTC Ice, renowned for its linear design, features a crystal-clear transparent casing that not only enhances aesthetics but also provides a smooth, responsive typing experience. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike seeking a premium feel with minimal resistance and a satisfying bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic reinvigorates the clicky switch genre with modern advancements like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, delivering a nostalgic yet refined experience characterized by its buttery and resonant click. This makes the Melodic appealing to those who appreciate the tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction of traditional clicky switches. While both switches cater to unique styles—smoothness and responsiveness versus satisfying clicks and engagement—they each present compelling arguments for different typing preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
The TTC Ice and the Gateron Melodic both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a similar auditory experience characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when a key is pressed. This commonality allows both switches to exhibit a vibrant tonal quality that is particularly beneficial for users who value a pronounced auditory feedback in their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting diffusion, making both switches aesthetically appealing, especially in setups that emphasize illumination.
However, the bottom housing materials diverge significantly between the two switches, while still influencing the overall sound profile in distinct ways. The Ice features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which reinforces the top's characteristics by providing a similar sharpness in sound. This can lead to a cohesive auditory experience, as the alignment of materials ensures consistency. In contrast, the Melodic employs nylon for its bottom housing, introducing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively than the hard polycarbonate, resulting in a rounder bottom-out sound that contrasts with the higher-pitched notes from its polycarbonate top.
As a result of this combination of materials, the Ice and Melodic offer a unique interplay between sound profiles based on their housing configurations. While both switches will deliver a clear response when the key is initially pressed due to the polycarbonate tops, the experience of bottoming out will differ notably. The Ice will maintain that crispness throughout, while the Melodic's nylon bottom will provide a more muted and fuller sound. Typists may choose one over the other based on personal preferences for sound—those who enjoy an accentuated click may favor the Ice, while those seeking a softer auditory feedback might lean towards the Melodic. Thus, even though they share similar top housing characteristics, the difference in the bottom housing material leads to distinct typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, notable differences and similarities emerge. The Ice switch features an actuation force of 45 grams, allowing for a moderately light feel, while the Melodic switch has an unspecified actuation force but shares the same bottom out force of 60 grams. Since the Melodic's actuation force is unknown, we can't definitively compare it to the Ice's 45 grams. However, both switches reach a similar bottom out force, indicating that regardless of the actuation force, they will feel the same upon fully depressing the key. In terms of weight, the Ice switch is likely the lighter option, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming, while the Melodic's actuation feel depends on its unknown force—potentially providing a heavier experience if it exceeds 45 grams. Ultimately, users seeking a lighter touch may prefer the TTC Ice, while those who favor a stronger push might need to investigate the Melodic further.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch reveals a clear difference in design and user experience. The TTC Ice switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it a shorter option that appeals to those who prioritize quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic switch boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, aligning more closely with the traditional depth that some users prefer for a richer typing experience. Thus, for those who enjoy a more robust feedback and depth when pressing keys, the Melodic switch would be the better choice. In contrast, if responsiveness is key, the Ice switch's shorter travel distance would provide an advantage. Overall, while both switches cater to different preferences, the TTC Ice's travel distance is shorter, and the Gateron Melodic offers a longer travel distance for those seeking a more profound tactile 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 Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 sound produced by the TTC Ice linear switch is known for its smooth and clean auditory feedback when typing, offering a satisfying bottom-out sound that contributes to an enjoyable experience. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch delivers an engaging auditory signature characterized by its resonant and crunchy tones. The resonant sound profile is higher-pitched, providing an immersive experience, while the crunchy element evokes the sensation of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. Together, these qualities create a vibrant and distinct soundscape that significantly differs from the subtler tones of the Ice switch.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Ice switch is lauded for its smooth and responsive keystrokes, ensuring a premium typing experience, whether for gaming or everyday use. The Gateron Melodic, on the other hand, boasts a combination of buttery smoothness and invigorating feedback. Its buttery feel creates a seamless keystroke experience, while the invigorating feedback presents pronounced resistance and snappiness that enhances engagement with each press. Although these two switches differ in their tactile sensations, both provide unique experiences that cater to different typists' preferences.
Considering all the information, the TTC Ice switch is ideal for those who prefer a smooth, linear feel with a subtle sound profile, making it well-suited for users who seek a quieter typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron Melodic switch appeals to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience with its distinct clicky feedback and engaging sound. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a linear smoothness or seek the invigorating essence of a clicky switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and how you plan to use your mechanical keyboard. If you prioritize a smooth, responsive typing experience and enjoy the aesthetics of a crystal-clear switch, the TTC Ice might be the perfect fit for you. It shines in both gaming and everyday scenarios, offering a premium feel without the distractions of audible clicks. On the other hand, if you revel in tactile feedback and distinctive sound when typing, the Gateron Melodic could be the better choice. With its resonant and crunchy sound profile, along with buttery and invigorating feel, it immerses you in each keystroke, making it ideal for those who appreciate the nostalgic charm of clicky switches. Ultimately, consider your typing style, sound preferences, and the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard to make the best choice for your needs.
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