TTC Ice vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean

Overview

When choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Ice and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean present two compelling options, each catering to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The TTC Ice switch stands out with its crystal-clear transparent design, providing a visually appealing aesthetic while delivering a smooth and responsive feel along with a satisfying bottom-out sound—qualities that enhance both gaming performance and general typing pleasures. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, while lacking specific standout features, offers a more subdued auditory experience, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize noise reduction during their typing sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, with the Ice switch leaning toward tactile satisfaction and aesthetic appeal and the Silent Ocean focusing on quietness and dust resilience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Ice Linear

Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When examining the housing materials of the TTC Ice and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches, both models feature polycarbonate top housings. This shared material results in a similar sound profile that is characterized as sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper. Polycarbonate's stiffness allows for clear resonance, which enhances the auditory experience when typing or gaming. Additionally, both switches cater to RGB lighting enthusiasts thanks to the translucency of polycarbonate, making it visually appealing when illuminated. Thus, regarding the top housings, users can expect a comparable performance in terms of sound clarity and aesthetic integration with RGB lighting.

However, the two switches diverge significantly when it comes to their bottom housings. The TTC Ice utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which maintains the same crisp sound profile as the top. This choice allows the switch to deliver a more consistent auditory experience across both the top and bottom of the switch. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean opts for a nylon bottom housing, which is known for its ability to create a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound and results in a rounder audio experience, which contrasts with the sharper qualities imparted by the polycarbonate construction. Therefore, the differing materials greatly influence how each switch feels and sounds upon bottoming out.

In essence, the performance characteristics of each switch are shaped significantly by the interaction between their respective top and bottom housings. The TTC Ice’s homogenous use of polycarbonate allows for a balanced and coherent sound profile that is both resonant and clear, enhancing the overall typing experience from start to finish. Meanwhile, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean, with its nylon bottom housing, creates a pronounced disparity in sound quality, promoting a thicker sound upon actuation while still benefiting from the crispness provided by the polycarbonate top. Ultimately, users will experience distinct auditory effects from each switch due to their material differences, even though both share the same polycarbonate top housing benefits.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, we find that both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive at the point of key activation. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the Ice switch having a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Silent Ocean switch requires a heavier 65 grams to fully depress. This distinction suggests that while both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of actuation, those who prefer a more substantial feel when bottoming out might gravitate toward the Outemu option due to its heavier force. Consequently, the TTC Ice switch is the lighter choice overall, which can appeal to users looking for a more comfortable typing experience during extended sessions, while the Silent Ocean switch offers a firmer feedback for those who favor more resistance in their key presses.

Travel distance

The TTC Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This difference means that the Ice switch may provide a more pronounced tactile experience due to its longer travel distance, which some users might prefer for its deeper engagement. In contrast, the shorter 3.3 mm travel of the Dustproof Silent Ocean is likely to cater to gamers seeking quicker actuation for faster response times, although some users might find this abruptness less satisfying. Ultimately, while both switches offer qualities suitable for specific preferences, the Ice switch allows for a deeper feel compared to the Ocean switch, making it the ideal choice for those who appreciate a more pronounced key press experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Ice linear switch is known for its satisfying bottom-out sound, which adds a pleasurable auditory component to typing and gaming experiences. The transparency of the Ice switch design may also enhance the resonance, providing a crisp, clear tone with every keystroke. In contrast, no specific sound characteristics are provided for the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. It's worth noting that sound can heavily depend on additional factors such as the keyboard's construction and the chosen keycaps, which may profoundly influence how these switches sound in practice.

In terms of feel, the Ice switch is heralded for its smooth and responsive operation, allowing for a seamless typing experience that caters well to both gaming and day-to-day usage. The linear profile contributes to this smoothness, as there is no tactile bump or click to disrupt the flow of typing. The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch lacks detailed descriptions regarding its feel, so we cannot make a precise comparison. However, if it shares characteristics typical of linear switches, a similar smooth and consistent travel may be expected.

In summary, the TTC Ice linear switch stands out with its transparent design and satisfying sound, combined with a smooth typing experience, making it an appealing choice for many enthusiasts. The lack of specific details about the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean limits our ability to compare its sound and feel directly; however, it appears to cater to a similar audience looking for a quiet, smooth experience, especially considering its designation as "dustproof" and "silent." Depending on individual preferences and priorities, these qualities will guide newcomers in making an informed choice between these two switch options.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, your specific needs and preferences will play a pivotal role. If you value a smooth and responsive typing experience with a satisfying bottom-out sound, the TTC Ice switch, with its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, would likely be the better choice for you. Its transparent design not only looks stunning but also provides a premium feel, making it suitable for both gaming and general typing tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch that offers a more muted typing sound due to its dustproof features, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean with a bottom-out force of 65 grams may be ideal. This switch prioritizes silence, making it an excellent option for quiet environments or shared spaces. Ultimately, your choice should align with what you prioritize—visual appeal and a satisfying sound with the Ice switch, or a heavier, quieter experience with the Dustproof Silent Ocean.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Ice Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more