TTC Ice vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the options can often be overwhelming, especially when comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch. The TTC Ice is celebrated for its smooth and responsive feel, paired with a visually striking crystal-clear transparent design. This makes it an excellent choice for both gaming and everyday use, providing a premium typing experience with a satisfying bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple stands out with its pronounced tactile bump, delivering an exhilarating typing experience that many find enjoyable for both typing and gaming. Its snappy sound profile adds an extra layer of auditory feedback that enhances the engagement with each keystroke. While both switches have their unique advantages, such as the Ice's smoothness and the Polaris Purple's tactile feedback, the final decision often comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Ice Linear

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The TTC Ice and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches share an identical construction in their housings, as both feature polycarbonate for their top and bottom components. This common choice of polycarbonate contributes to a "sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper" sound profile, which is a hallmark of both switches. The rigidity of polycarbonate allows for clear resonance, ensuring that the acoustics are suitable for both gaming and typing experiences alike. The translucency of these polycarbonate housings also enhances their aesthetic appeal, particularly when RGB lighting is employed, giving users a visually striking addition to their setups.

Despite their shared material properties, the acoustic experiences offered by the TTC Ice and Polaris Purple can still differ based on design nuances such as thickness, shape, or internal structure. While both switches will inherently produce a clear and resonant sound due to their polycarbonate housings, the overall auditory character might vary slightly due to these factors, affecting how users perceive the sound signature. Moreover, both switches are optimized for both bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound produced upon release, meaning that any differences in their acoustic profile will be marginal and largely influenced by the nuances of their design rather than the materials themselves.

In terms of overall user experience, both the TTC Ice and SP-Star Polaris Purple will create a similar feeling when pressed, as the qualities associated with polycarbonate haptics and auditory feedback are preserved across both models. Users will notice that the bottom housing of each switch has a significant impact on the tactile feel and sound upon bottoming out, while the top housing will play a more prominent role in the sound produced on release. As a result, anyone choosing between these switches can anticipate a comparable performance in terms of sound quality and tactile response, owing to the commonality in housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, notable differences emerge. The TTC Ice switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as medium in weight. Conversely, the Polaris Purple switch lacks a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category. This suggests that pressing the Polaris Purple down to its fullest extension requires more effort, making it the heavier option overall. For typists or gamers who appreciate a lighter touch for extended use, the TTC Ice switch would be the preferable choice thanks to its lower actuation force. In contrast, those who seek a more substantial tactile experience would lean towards the Polaris Purple for its heavier bottom out force, offering a firmer keystroke feel. Since the actuation force for the Polaris Purple is unknown, it complicates a direct force comparison in that regard, yet it is clear that the TTC Ice provides a lighter typing experience overall.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, the TTC Ice measures 3.6 mm, while the Polaris Purple has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the TTC Ice the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times due to its reduced distance, enhancing overall responsiveness. Conversely, the Polaris Purple, with its 4 mm travel distance, could be more suitable for users who prefer a deeper, more deliberate keypress, providing a tactile feedback that some may find more satisfying. Ultimately, those who prioritize quick actions in their gameplay may lean towards the shorter TTC Ice, while others who enjoy a more pronounced depth in their typing experience would likely prefer the Polaris Purple.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Ice linear switch offers a satisfying bottom-out sound that enhances the overall typing experience, making it ideal for both gaming and daily activities. The clarity of the crystal-clear transparent design contributes to the auditory output, providing a sound that many users find premium. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch presents a neutral sound profile that caters to a wider audience due to its moderate actuation force requirement. While it has a snappy characteristic, you can expect it to maintain a balanced auditory experience suitable for various environments, whether at home or work.

In terms of feel, the TTC Ice switch is known for its smooth and responsive nature, which is perfect for users who appreciate an uninterrupted typing experience. The polished aspect of the Polaris Purple switch enhances its overall tactile feedback by ensuring a refined touch. The Polaris Purple's significant tactile bump creates an exhilarating typing sensation, while its mild properties make it accessible to a wider range of users who may prefer a gentler experience. Both switches exhibit smooth key travel, but the Ice leans towards a linear feel with an easier actuation, while the Polaris Purple offers a defined feedback that adds to its character.

Overall, both the TTC Ice linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch serve unique purposes, catering to different preferences in sound and feel. If you value a smooth, linear response and a crisp bottom-out sound, the Ice is a fantastic choice. On the other hand, if you lean towards a tactile experience with a balanced sound profile and pronounced feedback, the Polaris Purple provides that engaging action without being overwhelming. Ultimately, your decision will depend on whether you prioritize the smoothness of linear mechanics or the delightful feedback of tactile switches.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the TTC Ice linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch should be dictated by your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a smooth and responsive feel with a lighter actuation force of 60 grams, the Ice switch would be ideal for you—especially if you enjoy a premium typing experience suitable for both gaming and daily tasks. Its crystal-clear design also enhances the aesthetic of your keyboard while providing a satisfying bottom-out sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback with the hefty 67 grams of actuation force, the Polaris Purple is your go-to option. Its pronounced tactile bump delivers an exciting typing experience that many typists and gamers love, while the neutral sound profile makes it a versatile choice for various environments, be it at work or at home. Ultimately, your decision should factor in how you engage with your keyboard—whether you seek that smooth linear progression or an exhilarating tactile sensation.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Ice Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more