TTC Ice vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options stand out: the TTC Ice and the Outemu Dustproof Brown. The TTC Ice, a linear switch, is celebrated for its crystal-clear transparent design and smooth, responsive feel, providing a satisfying typing experience that caters to both gaming and everyday tasks. Its lack of tactile feedback allows for uninterrupted keystrokes, making it ideal for those who prefer a swift and fluid typing style. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch offers a tactile bump that enhances typing accuracy and feedback, appealing to users who enjoy a more traditional typing experience with a noticeable response at the actuation point. Both switches cater to distinct preferences, with the Ice supplying a sleek, uninterrupted operation and the Dustproof Brown delivering tactile reassurance. 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
65g
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
Partial box
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 Outemu Dustproof Brown switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to some similarities in sound profile and light transmission qualities. Polycarbonate's inherent stiffness results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. This is beneficial for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback from their switches. Additionally, the clear nature of polycarbonate enhances RGB lighting, making it an aesthetically pleasing choice for those who invest in customizable keyboards with vibrant backlighting. Both switches will therefore exhibit a consistent sound quality meant to appeal to users seeking a bright acoustic response.
In stark contrast, the bottom housing materials of these two switches diverge significantly. The TTC Ice employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, continuing the trend initiated with the top housing by producing a similar sharp and resonant sound. This results in a well-balanced auditory experience where both the actuation and bottoming out offer a comparable sound profile. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Brown opts for nylon in its bottom housing, which is well-known for its softer texture. This choice fosters a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more acoustics and producing a rounder tone. As a result, users may notice a distinct tonal difference when bottoming out the switch, affecting the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the combination of the TTC Ice's polycarbonate top and bottom housings delivers a bright and cohesive sound profile, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown creates a more diverse auditory experience due to its use of nylon in the bottom housing. If both switches were equipped with polycarbonate bottoms, they would yield a unified sound signature. However, with their current configurations, users can expect contrasting auditory feedback that showcases the qualities of each material. Thus, when selecting between these options, one should consider their personal preferences for sound profile and material characteristics, as they significantly influence the typing experience and acoustic environment of the keyboard.
Weight
The TTC Ice linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch exhibit some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally expedient for triggering keystrokes, ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch during typing or gaming sessions. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the TTC Ice switch has a force of 60 grams, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown requires a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This indicates that while both switches are similar in the initial actuation, the Dustproof Brown offers a more substantial resistance when pressing down completely, catering to those who enjoy a heftier feel. As a result, the TTC Ice is the lighter option, offering a more effortless typing experience, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown leans toward a heavier, more tactile feedback, suited for users seeking a more pronounced push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The TTC Ice features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm. This indicates that the Ice switch is the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times and increased responsiveness. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown, with its 4 mm travel distance, offers a more traditional feel that some users might prefer for its depth and feedback during typing. Therefore, if you favor a more abrupt actuation, the TTC Ice would be the switch to choose; but if you prefer a hearty depth in your keystrokes, the Outemu Dustproof Brown would be the better option.
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 Outemu Dustproof Brown comes in at $3.10 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
The TTC Ice linear switch is characterized by a pleasant, satisfying bottom-out sound, providing a smooth auditory experience without the pronounced clicking often associated with tactile switches. Users often appreciate the subtlety of the sound profile, which allows for a more focused typing environment. In contrast, while the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is not specified, it is generally understood that tactile switches tend to produce a more muted sound compared to linear switches. This means that while the Ice may offer a more pronounced auditory feedback, the Dustproof Brown may provide a quieter typing experience, making it suitable for environments where noise is a concern.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Ice linear switch excels with its smooth and responsive actuation, allowing for effortless keystrokes ideal for fast-paced gaming and typing. The linear nature means there are no tactile bumps or bumps to navigate, which many users appreciate for a consistently fluid experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch, being a tactile switch, provides a noticeable bump at the actuation point, offering users tactile feedback that can help improve typing accuracy and rhythm. This tactile cue is particularly beneficial for typists who prefer a bit of texture to their keystrokes, allowing them to discern when their keystroke has registered.
In summary, the TTC Ice linear switch offers a smooth feel and a satisfying bottom-out sound, making it versatile for both gaming and everyday use. The Outemu Dustproof Brown, while lacking detailed information on sound, provides a tactile response that can enhance typing precision. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying experiences but cater to different preferences—those who enjoy a smooth, linear action versus those who appreciate tactile feedback. Thus, your choice between them will hinge on whether you prioritize the smoothness of linear switches or the feedback provided by tactile switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you value a smooth and responsive typing experience that caters well to both gaming and everyday tasks, the TTC Ice switch may be your best bet, especially considering its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams that provides a satisfying feel without being too taxing on your fingers. Its crystal-clear transparent design adds a touch of aesthetic flair, enhancing your overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a tactile bump to enhance your typing feedback, the Outemu Dustproof Brown, which has a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams, might be more appropriate for you. The tactile response can make a significant difference, especially for typing, as it provides a tangible indication of the actuation point. Moreover, if sound dampening is a concern for you, the Dustproof Brown's characteristics may suit quieter environments better, as it usually produces a softer sound compared to some linear options. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style, the primary activities you engage in, and your desired sensory feedback—be it the smoothness of the Ice or the tactile response of the Dustproof Brown.
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