TTC Ice vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the TTC Ice and the Outemu Gold switches, each offering unique characteristics tailored to different user preferences. The TTC Ice switch is celebrated for its linear design, providing a smooth and responsive typing experience that minimizes tactile feedback, making it ideal for gamers seeking quick key presses and a satisfying bottom-out sound. In contrast, the Outemu Gold switch, classified as a clicky switch, delivers an audible click and tactile feedback, appealing to typists who relish the sound and feel of each keystroke, which can enhance typing speed and accuracy. While the Ice is primarily favored for its transparency and overall fluidity, the Gold’s clicky response is perfect for those who cherish the satisfying auditory feedback during their typing sessions. 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Ice and Outemu Gold switches both feature polycarbonate as the material for their top housings. This commonality leads to similar auditory experiences, as polycarbonate's inherent properties yield a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of the polycarbonate contributes to a resonant quality that accentuates the auditory presence of each keystroke, making it particularly effective for users who enjoy the aesthetic effect of RGB lighting. Both switches benefit from this translucency, allowing light to pass through and create a more vibrant display when integrated into keyboards designed for such visual effects. Consequently, users can expect a similar brightness and clarity when utilizing backlit configurations in both switches.
Contrasting the bottom housings reveals a significant divergence between the TTC Ice and Outemu Gold switches—while the Ice employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, the Gold opts for nylon. The difference in materials results in distinct sonic characteristics, particularly in terms of sound profile. The polycarbonate bottom of the Ice maintains a consistent crispness similar to its top housing, thus reinforcing the sharper auditory experience. In contrast, the Gold's nylon bottom housing absorbs sound, producing a deeper and fuller resonance. Therefore, the Ice provides a more uniform sound signature when both top and bottom are considered, while the Gold's sound profile is more rounded due to the influence of its softer nylon base.
Regarding user experience, the differing bottom housings of each switch will contribute uniquely to the tactile sensations felt during typing. The TTC Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing retains the clear and resonant qualities throughout the keystroke, ensuring that both the keystroke and the release produce an incisive auditory feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Gold will present a richer, more subdued sound at bottom-out, thanks to the nylon's ability to absorb sound, thus creating a softer impact noise. Ultimately, while the TTC Ice focuses on clarity and sharpness throughout, the Outemu Gold embraces warmth and depth, giving users distinct yet complementary options based on their sound and feel preferences.
Weight
Both the TTC Ice linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch have an identical actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that they require the same amount of force to register a keystroke. Additionally, both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating that they feel the same when fully pressed down. This similarity suggests that users will experience comparable typing dynamics regarding actuation and bottoming out, making either switch a suitable choice for individuals who prefer a medium-weight feel. Given that both switches have the same weight specifications, users can expect similar results in terms of fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions. Whether a user prefers a linear switch or a clicky switch will depend more on their personal preference for actuation feedback rather than the exertion required to press the keys.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, the differences are quite distinct. The TTC Ice has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Outemu Gold features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional and therefore the longer of the two. For users who prioritize a more responsive feel, the TTC Ice may be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, catering to the preferences of gamers seeking quicker key actuations. Conversely, those who enjoy a more pronounced and hearty keypress might lean towards the Outemu Gold, as its longer travel distance can offer a more satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding key travel and responsiveness.
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 Gold 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Ice linear switch offers a smooth bottom-out sound that many users find satisfying, although it's generally quieter compared to clicky switches. The transparent design of the Ice switch also contributes to its aesthetically pleasing appearance, but it does not significantly alter the sound profile. In contrast, the Outemu Gold clicky switch is likely to produce a pronounced click sound upon actuation, providing the auditory feedback that many typists and gamers appreciate. This sound can enhance the overall tactile experience for those who prefer a more attention-grabbing auditory cue while typing.
Regarding the feel, the TTC Ice linear switch is known for its smooth and responsive action, making it ideal for both gaming and everyday typing. Users typically enjoy the lack of tactile bumps, which can lead to a more seamless keystroke experience. The Outemu Gold clicky switch, however, delivers a tactile bump as well as the aforementioned click sound, which can add a level of satisfaction for users who enjoy a tactile feedback moment. Each switch appeals to different preferences: those looking for a quieter and smoother experience may prefer the Ice, while those drawn to tactile sensation and sound might favor the Gold.
In conclusion, the TTC Ice linear switch and Outemu Gold clicky switch cater to different user preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Ice provides a smoother typing experience with a satisfying auditory element suitable for various tasks, while the Gold emphasizes auditory feedback with its distinct click sound and tactile bump. Ultimately, individuals should choose based on their typing style and the immersive experience they seek, as each switch offers a unique characteristic that contributes to a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between TTC Ice linear switches and Outemu Gold clicky switches ultimately depends on your personal preference and intended use. If you value a smooth, responsive feel with a satisfying bottom-out sound, the TTC Ice linear switches are an excellent option. Their transparent design not only looks great but also provides a premium typing experience, making them suitable for both gaming and everyday typing tasks. On the other hand, if you enjoy the tactile feedback and pronounced auditory response of clicky switches, the Outemu Gold switch might be the better choice for you. With an equally medium actuation force of 60 grams, the Gold switch delivers a distinctive "click" that can enhance your typing experience, especially if you appreciate a more mechanical and retro feel. In short, choose the TTC Ice linear for a smooth, clean experience, and opt for the Outemu Gold if you prefer a fun, clicky typing adventure.
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