TTC Ice vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the TTC Ice and the Cherry MX Purple RGB can significantly influence your typing and gaming experience. The TTC Ice switches are celebrated for their clacky and feathery feel, featuring a unique crystal-clear transparent design that not only looks stunning but also delivers a smooth, responsive typing experience with a satisfying sound upon bottoming out. Ideal for gamers and everyday typists alike, these linear switches prioritize smoothness and speed, making them perfect for fast-paced gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches offer a more tactile experience with a distinct medium-strength bump, designed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses to provide a refined feedback that many typists appreciate. While the Ice switches favor a fluid keystroke, the Purple RGB is perfect for those who prefer a pronounced tactile sensation when typing. Both switches have their unique strengths and cater to different preferences, but 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB switches, a significant distinction emerges between the two. The TTC Ice is constructed with polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, a material renowned for its rigidity and transparency. This construction results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, enhancing the overall acoustic experience for users who prioritize feedback and clarity in their typing. The clear nature of polycarbonate allows for the effective diffusion of RGB lighting, making the Ice aesthetic and functional for users looking to incorporate customizable lighting effects into their setups.
In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings. Nylon, being a softer material, produces a deeper, fuller sound that contrasts markedly with the Ice's more resonant profile. The softer characteristics of nylon enable it to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience compared to the sharper tones offered by the polycarbonate used in the TTC Ice. This fundamental difference means that users can expect a distinct typing sensation and sound when using the Cherry MX Purple, appealing to those who may prefer a more muted feedback while typing.
Despite these differences, both switches can yield satisfactory results depending on user preference. The Ice, with its polycarbonate build, will deliver a more vibrant and clear sound that synergizes well with RGB lighting, making it ideal for aesthetics as well as performance. Conversely, users of the Cherry MX Purple RGB will appreciate the softer, more subdued feedback, making it a good choice for extended typing sessions where comfort and less distraction are key. Ultimately, even with different materials, both switches offer unique advantages tailored to diverse gaming and typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, both switches feature the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive to typing pressure. This similarity means that users can expect similar activation experiences, which is advantageous for prolonged typing sessions, appealing to those who favor a lighter touch for comfort. However, the TTC Ice is defined more precisely with a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a firmer feel when the key is fully pressed down. In contrast, the bottom out force of the MX Purple RGB is unknown, leaving its overall resistance upon full depression uncertain. Therefore, while both switches share a light actuation force at 45 grams, the TTC Ice offers a heavier bottoming out experience, providing a more substantial tactile response for those who prefer a stronger push feel. This contrast between the switches can help users decide based on their preference for typing comfort versus tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, the Ice switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the MX Purple RGB features a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the TTC Ice switch offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple switch, with its longer travel distance, provides a more traditional feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile and satisfying keypress experience. Ultimately, those who prioritize responsiveness may opt for the TTC Ice switch, whereas users who enjoy a deeper, more pronounced key travel might lean towards the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 produces a distinctly clacky sound, characterized as sharp and snappy, giving it a crisp and bright auditory signature when typing. This percussive quality can enhance the typing experience, especially for those who appreciate audible feedback during key presses. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch does not have a specified sound profile in the provided information, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, it is important to note that the overall sound of both switches can vary significantly depending on the keyboard construction, such as the choice of board and keycaps.
When it comes to the feel, the Ice switches are noted for their feathery touch, which makes them exceptionally light to press, resulting in minimal finger fatigue. This characteristic allows for comfortable extended typing sessions, whether for gaming, work, or general use. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch offers a refined tactile experience with a medium-strength bump. While the subjective feel of the Cherry MX may be more pronounced due to the tactile feedback, this can also lead to a different typing experience altogether compared to the smoother action of the Ice switches.
In conclusion, both the TTC Ice linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch yield unique experiences suited to different preferences. While the Ice provides a clacky sound and a light, feathery feel ideal for those who favor smoothness and minimal resistance, the Cherry MX Purple RGB's tactile bump may appeal to users looking for a more defined key press. Despite their differences, users can achieve satisfying results with both switches depending on preferred typing styles, as well as the specific keyboard configuration.
Conclusion
In summary, the decision between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately hinges on your specific preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a smooth, responsive typing experience with a bit of auditory feedback, the TTC Ice switch is an excellent choice. Its clacky sound profile and medium bottom-out force of 60 grams make it well-suited for gamers and typists who appreciate a satisfying keystroke without excessive strain on their fingers. The feathery feel of the Ice switch can provide comfort during long sessions, whether you are gaming or working. Conversely, if you prefer tactile feedback to help guide your typing and enhance your overall experience, the Cherry MX Purple RGB would be more fitting. Its refined tactile bump, developed with input from keyboard enthusiasts, offers a unique feel ideal for users who enjoy feeling that satisfying resistance while they type. If sound is a concern, you might also consider how the MX Purple RGB's noise profile, while not explicitly detailed, typically tends to be warmer and more subdued compared to the Ice's clackiness. Ultimately, assess how each switch aligns with your typing style and sound preference to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
