TTC Ice vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can significantly affect your typing experience, and two noteworthy options are the TTC Ice and Gateron Quinn switches. The TTC Ice is a linear switch known for its smooth, responsive feel and a satisfying sound that makes it an excellent choice for both gaming and daily typing tasks. Its crystal-clear design not only looks stunning but also enhances the overall aesthetic of your keyboard. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn offers a tactile experience characterized by a crisp, light bump and a deep, resonant sound profile that engages users with a rich auditory feedback on each keystroke. Its specially designed nylon housing contributes to an immersive typing experience, full of character. Whether you prefer the smooth gliding sensation of the Ice for swift gameplay or the gratifying tactile feedback of the Quinn for a more pronounced typing experience, each switch has its unique advantages. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The TTC Ice and Gateron Quinn switches represent two distinct approaches to switch design through their choice of housing materials. The Ice utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's inherent rigidity allows it to resonate more effectively, creating a clearer auditory experience that many typists and gamers find appealing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual effect of RGB lighting, making these switches particularly popular among users who prioritize aesthetics alongside performance.
In contrast, the Gateron Quinn features nylon for both its top and bottom housings. Known for its softer composition, nylon tends to absorb sound rather than amplify it, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This material contributes to a duller yet rounder auditory experience, which contrasts sharply with the crispness offered by polycarbonate. As both types of nylon housing effectively dampen the vibrations, they provide a quieter typing experience, catering to users who may prefer less noise, such as those working in quiet environments or shared spaces.
When comparing the two switch designs, the impact of their housing materials becomes particularly evident. For the TTC Ice, the combined properties of polycarbonate lead to a sound experience that is coherent and articulate, both when pressing down and releasing the key. Meanwhile, the Gateron Quinn's nylon materials impact the overall typing experience by creating a fuller sound when bottoming out, while also softening the auditory feedback upon release. The juxtaposition of the Ice’s clear and bright characteristics versus the Quinn’s soft and muted qualities highlights the balance between user preference for auditory feedback and the aesthetic appeal offered by different materials. Despite their differences, users seeking a specific sound profile can adjust their expectations and techniques to either achieve clarity with the Ice or a more subdued experience with the Quinn.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Ice switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, particularly during long working hours or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Quinn switch has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, appealing to individuals who enjoy a more substantial and tactile feedback during typing. As a result, the Ice switch is ideal for those who prioritize ease of use and comfort, while the Quinn switch is better suited for users seeking a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference, with the Ice being the lighter option and the Quinn representing the heavier alternative.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is clear that they differ, with the Ice switch having a travel distance of 3.6 mm and the Quinn switch at 3.4 mm. This minor difference indicates that the Quinn is the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker key presses for faster response times. Conversely, the Ice switch provides a slightly longer travel distance, potentially offering a more substantial feel during typing, which some users might prefer for a richer typing experience. Therefore, if you favor a more responsive feel, the Gateron Quinn is the better choice, while those who enjoy a deeper key press should lean towards the TTC Ice.
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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Ice linear switch offers a smooth and satisfying bottom-out sound which enhances the typing experience without being too overpowering or distracting. This characteristic makes it suitable for a variety of applications, from casual typing to intense gaming. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch boasts a deep, resonant sound profile that creates a rich and immersive auditory experience. Users can expect a combination of clacky and bassy tones, providing a sharp yet warm sound when typing. This sound is further enriched by the nylon housing, which contributes to its unique acoustics, making the Quinn ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Ice switch is prized for its smooth and responsive action, designed to provide a fluid typing experience. Although the specific tactile feedback of the Ice is not detailed, the seamless keystrokes typically associated with linear switches suggest a straightforward, undistracted sense of movement. The Gateron Quinn, on the other hand, excels in delivering an accented tactile bump along with a range of feelings, including snappy, polished, and bouncy feedback. This creates a lively typing experience that combines elements of both tactile enjoyment and smooth operation, effectively catering to users who favor enhanced tactile sensations during their typing sessions.
Overall, while both switches provide excellent experiences tailored to different preferences, they cater to distinct typing styles. The TTC Ice switch is ideal for those who seek a clean and linear feel with a moderate acoustic profile, making it versatile for various tasks. Conversely, the Gateron Quinn switch is perfect for users who appreciate tactile feedback with a richer and more resonant sound, adding a layer of engagement to their typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual priorities regarding sound and feel, but both promise a high-quality typing experience that many keyboard enthusiasts will appreciate.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a smooth and responsive typing experience that excels in both gaming and general use, the Ice switch, with its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, delivers that seamless feel and satisfying sound profile. This makes it an ideal choice if you prefer a straightforward linear switch that allows for fast key presses and minimal tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile experience with a distinctive bump and a rich sound that lends character to your typing, the Quinn switch is your best bet. With a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams, it provides snappy responsiveness and a unique auditory experience through its bassy and resonant sound profile. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate the mix of tactile feedback and deep sound resonation while typing or gaming. Ultimately, assess which attributes are most important to you—smoothness versus tactility, sound preferences, and overall typing feel—to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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