TTC Ice vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Ice and Outemu Tom present two distinct options catering to different user preferences. The TTC Ice switch, a linear switch, boasts a crystal-clear transparent design that not only enhances aesthetics but also delivers a smooth and responsive typing experience. Its satisfying bottom-out sound makes it ideal for gamers and typists alike, providing a premium experience in both gaming and everyday tasks. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom switch is classified as a tactile switch, known for its noticeable bump that provides tactile feedback during keystrokes. This sensory feedback allows for more deliberate typing and can enhance accuracy, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy typing and need a bit more assurance in each keystroke. When deciding between these two options, consider whether you prioritize the smooth and uninterrupted action of a linear switch like the Ice or the tactile feedback of the Tom. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Ice and Outemu Tom switches both incorporate polycarbonate in their top housing, leading to some notable similarities in their sound profiles. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This characteristic ensures a clear and resonant auditory experience when typing. Additionally, both switches benefit aesthetically from polycarbonate's translucency, making them excellent choices for setups featuring RGB lighting, as the glow from the LED lights can shine through the housing, enhancing the visual appeal. Users can expect a bright and defined sound signature from both switches, rooted in the properties of their top housings.
However, when examining the materials used in the bottom housing, distinct differences emerge between the TTC Ice and Outemu Tom switches. The Ice employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, reinforcing the overall crisp sound profile established by its top housing. The homogeneity of materials in both the top and bottom housings means that the typing experience is consistent and balanced, with the sound characteristics that polycarbonate brings being prominent throughout. In contrast, the Outemu Tom features a nylon bottom housing, introducing a markedly different audio quality. Nylon is a softer material that absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, which can provide a rounder feeling while typing. This difference means that although the top part of the Outemu Tom produces a similar sharp sound to the Ice, the bottom housing softens and deepens the auditory experience, creating a mixed sound profile that stands apart from the uniformity of the Ice.
With different materials for their bottom housings, the overall typing experience of the TTC Ice and Outemu Tom switches illustrates how sound and feel can be influenced by the combination of materials used. The Ice, with its polycarbonate construction throughout, offers a consistent and clear sound that shines with RGB lighting. Conversely, the Outemu Tom provides a contrast with its nylon bottom, which alters the loudness and tonal quality of the switch, creating a richer acoustic experience when bottoming out. Ultimately, users drawn to either switch will encounter distinct auditory profiles shaped by the materials, reflecting the different experiences that can be achieved through thoughtful design choices in mechanical switch construction.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Ice switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter and more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it requires less effort to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Tom switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. This increased resistance may lead to a more tactile response and could be ideal for users who favor a firmer feedback. As for the bottom out force, the Ice switch has a measurable bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Tom switch lacks this specification, making it difficult to compare in this regard. Overall, those seeking a lighter typing experience may gravitate toward the TTC Ice, whereas users looking for a heavier touch might prefer the Outemu Tom.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, the TTC Ice features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Tom has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This distinction illustrates that the Ice switch offers a more substantial depth, which can be beneficial for users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback during key presses. Conversely, the Tom's shorter travel distance might appeal to gamers who prioritize quicker response times and enhanced speed in their actions. Although both distances fall within the range of modern preferences, the Ice switch caters to those who enjoy a hearty feel, while the Tom switch aligns with a more rapid, responsive style that some users might find appealing. Thus, if you’re looking for a deeper experience, the TTC Ice is the better choice, whereas the Outemu Tom will provide a swifter action favored by many gamers.
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 Tom 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 provides a satisfying bottom-out sound that contributes to a premium typing experience. Its smooth operation tends to produce a subtle yet pleasing acoustic profile, making it suitable for both gamers and typists who appreciate a quieter workspace. In contrast, the Outemu Tom tactile switch does not have a specified sound profile described, which leaves some ambiguity regarding its auditory characteristics. However, it's worth noting that the sound of any switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycap material, meaning users may experience different sound signatures regardless of the switch type.
In terms of feel, the TTC Ice switch is known for its smooth and responsive action, providing a satisfying experience for both gaming and typing. This linear switch is devoid of any tactile bump, which allows for quick and uninterrupted keystrokes, making it ideal for fast-paced scenarios. The feel of the Outemu Tom tactile switch is not noted in the available information, leaving us without a definitive comparison. However, tactile switches generally provide a noticeable bump during actuation, which can enhance typing accuracy and feedback. Depending on one's personal preferences, tactile feedback could either complement the speed of a linear switch or serve a different purpose entirely.
In conclusion, both the TTC Ice linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch offer unique qualities that can cater to different user preferences. While the Ice excels in providing a smooth feel and clear sound that enhances the typing experience, the Tom's characteristics remain unspecified, leaving room for uncertainty. Ultimately, those seeking a linear experience might favor the Ice for its well-defined qualities, while users who prefer tactile feedback need to consider how the Tom's unmentioned attributes align with their typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a smooth and responsive typing experience, the TTC Ice switch is an excellent choice. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams provides a balanced tactile feedback that many users find comfortable for both gaming and everyday writing tasks. The crystal-clear design adds an aesthetic appeal, while the satisfying bottom-out sound enhances its premium feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback in your typing experience, you might want to consider the Outemu Tom switch, which is designed to provide pronounced tactile bumps that can improve your typing accuracy by offering clear feedback with each keystroke. If you enjoy a clicking sound when typing and want to affirmatively identify each key press, the Tom could be more to your liking. Ultimately, choosing between the Ice and the Tom boils down to whether you want the smoothness and visual appeal of the Ice, or the tactile experience and potential auditory feedback of the Tom. Assess your typing style and preferences carefully to find the switch that suits you best.
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