TTC Ice vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Ice and Cherry MX Red both stand out as prominent linear options, each offering unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The TTC Ice switches are celebrated for their crystal-clear transparent design, delivering a smooth and responsive typing feel along with a satisfying bottom-out sound, making them an appealing choice for users who value visual aesthetics and a premium experience in both gaming and everyday tasks. On the other hand, Cherry MX Red switches provide a slightly heftier feel, paired with a deeper sound profile, which many enthusiasts describe as 'thocky' and 'low-pitched'—traits that contribute to a robust typing experience perfect for both gaming prowess and comfortable prolonged use. While the Ice switches excel in their visual appeal and smooth performance, the MX Reds are revered for their textural depth and traditional reliability. 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
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 switches and the Cherry MX Red switches, it's evident that they employ distinctly different materials that greatly influence their sound profiles and tactile feedback. The TTC Ice utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which lends a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound that resonates well with users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory experience while typing. Polycarbonate’s stiffness promotes clearer sound production, making it especially suitable for enhancements such as RGB lighting, as its translucency allows light to pass through effectively. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switches utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon means it absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder auditory experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a more subdued and dampened sound while typing.
The differing materials also impact how users perceive the typing experience. The TTC Ice’s polycarbonate construction results in a more resonant feedback profile, which can make typing feel more dynamic and engaging. This is particularly noticeable during the release phase of a keystroke, as the polycarbonate top housing enhances the sound quality. Conversely, the Cherry MX Red's nylon housing dampens the sound produced, especially at the bottom-out phase, providing a softer and more cushioned feel. As nylon absorbs vibrations more effectively than polycarbonate, this leads to a typing experience that is quieter, which some users may find preferable for focused work environments.
Ultimately, both switches showcase the effects of their respective materials on performance and auditory feedback. While the TTC Ice switches offer a lively and bright typing sound, the Cherry MX Red switches provide a more muted and plush experience. If one were to mix these housings, the combination of materials would create a unique sound profile where the crispness of the polycarbonate contrasts with the warmth of the nylon. Each switch's design allows for diverse user preferences based on the desired auditory and tactile feedback, emphasizing the importance of material choice in mechanical switch engineering.
Weight
The TTC Ice linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch exhibit similar actuation forces, with both requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. This means that users can expect a comparable typing experience when it comes to initiating key presses, which can be advantageous for those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for these switches differs, as the TTC Ice has a measurable bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Cherry MX Red's bottom out force is unspecified. This implies that the TTC Ice provides a more substantial feeling when fully pressed down, appealing to users who appreciate a firmer tactile feedback. In contrast, the lack of a defined bottom out force for the MX Red makes it difficult to ascertain its exact pressure at the bottom of a keystroke, suggesting it might feel lighter overall when bottoming out. Consequently, those seeking a more pronounced press will likely prefer the TTC Ice due to its heavier bottom out force, while the MX Red may cater to those who enjoy a lighter switch overall.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, the TTC Ice measures 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Red has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Ice switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the more traditional MX Red. The 0.4 mm difference may seem minor, but it can significantly impact the responsiveness of the switch. Gamers, who often prefer quicker response times, might gravitate towards the TTC Ice due to its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster activation. Conversely, those who enjoy a more robust typing experience may find the Cherry MX Red to be more appealing with its greater depth, providing a more tactile feel. Thus, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Ice offers a more immediate response, whereas the MX Red delivers a more substantial typing 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 Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Ice switches offer a satisfying bottom-out that enhances the typing experience, although specific descriptors of the sound profile are not provided. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switches are well-known for their thocky sound, producing a deep and rich auditory response. This low-pitched quality creates a bass-heavy tone that resonates well during typing, giving a robust feel that many users find appealing. Ultimately, while both switches have their unique auditory experiences, the Ice switches provide a smoother sound profile compared to the deeper, thocky resonance of the MX Reds.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Ice switches are recognized for their smooth and responsive action, making them enjoyable for both gaming and everyday use. On the other hand, Cherry MX Red switches are described as having a textured feel, which introduces noticeable friction during key presses. This tactile feedback may appeal to users who prefer a slight resistance while typing, although it might detract from the experience for those looking for a completely friction-free typing surface. Thus, the Ice switches deliver a more fluid experience, while the MX Reds provide a distinct textured sensation.
In summary, both the TTC Ice and Cherry MX Red switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Ice switches boast a smooth, satisfying auditory experience without a specified sound profile, while the MX Reds are known for their deeper, thocky sound and textured feel. If you are after a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Ice might be your pick. Conversely, if you enjoy a richer auditory depth with some texture in your key presses, the MX Reds would likely suit you well.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, your decision should hinge on your personal preferences for tactile feel, sound, and weight. If you are looking for a medium-bottom-out switch that provides a smooth and responsive typing experience, along with a visually appealing crystal-clear design, the TTC Ice switch would be an excellent choice. Its satisfying bottom-out sound enhances everyday typing and gaming alike, making it suitable for both casual and competitive scenarios. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier feel with a deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Red could be more appealing. Known for its thocky and low-pitched auditory feedback, it offers a robust typing experience with a distinct texture that some users find enjoyable. Ultimately, if you value a premium aesthetic and a crisp, clear response, go with the Ice; however, if you lean towards a heavier, more textured feel with a deeper acoustics, the MX Red may serve you better. Consider what aspects are most important to you, whether it be the visual appeal, sound quality, or typing sensation, to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.
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