TTC Ice vs. KTT MoonRosa
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the KTT MoonRosa switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Ice and the KTT MoonRosa, both linear switches that cater to different preferences. The TTC Ice switch is celebrated for its stunning crystal-clear design, offering a smooth and responsive feel accompanied by a satisfying clacky bottom-out sound, making it a strong contender for gamers and typists alike who appreciate an auditory feedback. In contrast, the KTT MoonRosa boasts an all-POM construction, delivering a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound that promotes a more subdued atmosphere, ideal for those who prefer a quieter workspace. While both switches excel in providing a delightful typing sensation, their differing sound profiles and materials offer unique experiences suited for varying user preferences. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
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 spring
Housing materials
The TTC Ice and the KTT MoonRosa utilize different housing materials, which significantly influence their respective sound profiles and aesthetic characteristics. The Ice features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, a material known for its stiffness and translucency. This results in a sound that is sharp, higher-pitched, and quite crisp. Polycarbonate's clear nature also allows for RGB lighting to shine through effectively, enhancing both the visual appeal and the sound clarity of the switch. In contrast, the MoonRosa employs POM (Polyoxymethylene) for its top and bottom housings, which generates a deeper, more muted sound profile. While POM also produces a unique auditory experience, it diverges significantly from the bright tone of polycarbonate, leading to a more rounded, less resonant feel.
Additionally, the way these materials interact within the keyboard switches creates distinct tactile differences. In the Ice switch, the polycarbonate housing's characteristics combine to deliver a consistent and resonant sound, which is particularly pronounced when releasing a key. This high-pitched sound is complemented by the equally stiff and clear bottom housing, maintaining the overall sharpness of the auditory experience. Conversely, the MoonRosa’s POM housing design focuses on delivering a unique and pleasing sound that’s more subdued. The deeper sound characteristic brought by POM in both the top and bottom housings results in a more muted response that enhances a softer keystroke feel, thus favoring users looking for a more mellow experience.
However, both switches can achieve effective performances in distinct contexts, depending on user preference. For users who appreciate the vibrant RGB lighting effects, the Ice’s polycarbonate will likely prove more suitable due to its light-transmissive capabilities. Conversely, users who prioritize auditory experiences may find the KTT MoonRosa more aligned with their preferences due to its deeper sound profile. Despite the differences in material, both designs provide distinct features, ensuring a unique tactile journey through their individual approaches to switch design. Ultimately, while the TTC Ice offers a bright and crisp experience, the KTT MoonRosa embraces a more muted depth, capturing the distinct qualities that various housing materials can bring to mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The TTC Ice features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch, which may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the KTT MoonRosa has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a preferred choice for those who type for longer periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions, as its lighter feel reduces finger fatigue. Consequently, the MoonRosa is the lighter switch, while the Ice is heavier. Given these differences, users will experience distinct tactile sensations; the TTC Ice will provide a firmer push, whereas the KTT MoonRosa offers a softer touch, aligning more with those who enjoy a less demanding keystroke.
Travel distance
The TTC Ice linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT MoonRosa linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Ice the longer option by just 0.1 mm, providing a marginally deeper feel when pressed compared to the MoonRosa. Gamers seeking quicker response times might lean towards the shorter MoonRosa switch, as the 3.5 mm distance allows for faster actuation. However, for users who prefer a more pronounced tactile experience and don’t mind a fraction of a millimeter, the TTC Ice could be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences regarding travel distance, with the Ice offering a bit more depth while the MoonRosa emphasizes speed.
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 KTT MoonRosa comes in at $4.88 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 comparing the sound of the TTC Ice linear switch to the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, there are notable differences. The Ice switch exhibits a clacky sound profile, characterized by its sharp, crisp, and percussive tones that create an engaging auditory experience during use. This makes it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a lively typing environment. In contrast, the MoonRosa delivers a low-pitched sound signature, leaning towards a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. This provides a quieter, more subdued auditory experience that could be preferable in environments where noise reduction is desired. Keep in mind that the ultimate sound produced will also depend on the keyboard's construction, as well as the choice of keycaps.
In terms of feel, both switches prioritize a light and effortless typing experience. The Ice switch is described as feathery, meaning it requires very little force to actuate, significantly reducing finger fatigue during extended use. This characteristic makes it an excellent choice for users who may spend long hours typing or gaming. Similarly, the MoonRosa switch is labeled as easy-to-press, which also reflects a gentle resistance that allows for minimal effort in activation. Both switches cater to users seeking low-impact and comfortable typing sessions, making them suitable for various applications, from gaming to daily typing tasks.
In conclusion, the TTC Ice and KTT MoonRosa linear switches each bring unique qualities to the table. The Ice switch stands out with its clacky sound and feathery feel, providing an expressive auditory experience that pairs well with its light actuation force. Meanwhile, the MoonRosa appeals to users looking for a quieter typing experience with its low-pitched sound and easy-to-press design. Ultimately, both switches offer an enjoyable typing feel, and although their sound profiles differ, users can expect a comfortable experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the TTC Ice linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch should hinge on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and the type of tasks you commonly engage in. If you favor a more robust, satisfying sound and a slightly firmer keypress for a blend of gaming and everyday typing, the TTC Ice, with its 60-gram bottom-out force and crisp, clacky sound, would be ideal. The feathery feel enhances comfort for longer sessions while providing a lively typing experience, making it suitable for those who enjoy a tactile response alongside a clear auditory feedback. Conversely, if you prioritize a softer, quieter typing experience, particularly for prolonged periods of use where finger fatigue is a concern, the KTT MoonRosa is clearly the better option. With its light bottom-out force of 45 grams, buttery smooth feel, and a low-pitched sound signature, it delivers an effortless typing experience that’s perfect for both work and casual use without being disruptive. Ultimately, consider what type of atmosphere you want to create and how you plan to use your keyboard, as these factors will guide you toward the switch that best meets your needs.