TTC Ice vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Ice and the KTT Rose both offer distinct experiences despite both being linear switches. The TTC Ice is celebrated for its striking crystal-clear design, delivering a smooth and responsive typing experience with a satisfying bottom-out sound, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike who appreciate both aesthetics and performance. In contrast, the KTT Rose, while not as visually bold, compensates with its progressive springs that provide a uniquely substantial feel without being overly heavy, creating a typing experience reminiscent of gentle, bassy raindrops. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Ice for those who prioritize sound feedback and visual appeal, and the Rose for users who seek a refined yet robust typing experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the TTC Ice and KTT Rose switches are pivotal in shaping their overall acoustic profiles. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is noteworthy for its contribution to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material's stiffness allows for greater resonance, resulting in transparent and crisp audio quality. Furthermore, due to its translucency, polycarbonate is an ideal choice for those wishing to utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. As a result, users of both the Ice and Rose will likely find that the top housing enhances their switch's responsiveness and vibrant sound characteristics, making them more effective in creating an engaging typing experience.
However, a significant difference between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The TTC Ice employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which mirrors the sonic properties of the top housing, ensuring a coherent sound signature throughout the switch. In contrast, the KTT Rose utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. While nylon is a classic choice, it generates a distinctively deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs sound more efficiently than the stiffer polycarbonate. This means that while the Ice retains a sharper overall auditory experience with both housings working harmoniously, the Rose offers a more rounded and muted sound primarily dictated by the characteristics of its nylon bottom.
Ultimately, the interaction between the top and bottom housing materials results in varied user experiences. In the case of the TTC Ice, both housings contribute uniformly to a vibrant sound, while in the KTT Rose, the combination of a resonant polycarbonate top with a sound-absorbing nylon bottom allows for a rich tonal contrast. This distinction means that when the Rose is actuated, the softer nylon bottom significantly influences the bottoming-out feel and sound, contributing a rounded quality, while the polycarbonate top maintains its crispness when releasing the keys. Therefore, while both switches share a similar sound profile imparted by the polycarbonate top, the overall auditory experience diverges due to the contrasting bottom materials, catering to different user preferences in typing feel and sound.
Weight
The TTC Ice linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch present distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ice switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which categorizes it as a medium switch. In contrast, the Rose switch has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy. This suggests that while the Ice switch requires less force to actuate, potentially providing a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Rose switch demands more force to press down fully, appealing to those who prefer a sturdier typing experience. In summary, the TTC Ice is the lighter option with a lower actuation force, making it more suitable for users favoring comfort over duration, while the KTT Rose, with its heavier bottom out force, caters to individuals seeking a more tactile feel in their typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Ice linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, the Ice switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Rose switch has a distance of 4 mm. This makes the TTC Ice the shorter of the two options, appealing to those who favor quicker response times typical in gaming environments. In contrast, the KTT Rose, with its slightly longer travel distance, may cater to users who enjoy a more substantial keypress, providing a deeper and more tactile experience. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Ice switch would be the better choice due to its shorter distance. However, if you appreciate a traditional feel with a more pronounced depth, the Rose would be preferable.
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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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
The sound profile of the TTC Ice linear switch is characterized by a satisfying bottom-out sound that resonates well during typing, offering a premium auditory experience that strikes a balance between being pleasant and unobtrusive. In contrast, the KTT Rose linear switch produces low-pitched sounds resembling bassy raindrops when typing, providing a mellow and neutral tone. This makes the Rose less jarring compared to some higher-pitched switches and suitable for both casual and professional environments. While both switches deliver satisfying auditory feedback, the Ice leans toward a more pronounced bottom-out sound, whereas the Rose offers a softer, more nuanced auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Ice switch is recognized for its smooth and responsive typing experience, ensuring minimal resistance during key presses. This creates a fluid sensation that many users appreciate for both gaming and routine typing tasks. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch features a mild and polished feel, which is approachable and gentle. The progressive springs in the Rose add an interesting dimension to the typing experience, making the actuation feel more substantial without being overly heavy. Overall, the Ice offers a straightforwardly smooth experience, while the Rose combines that smoothness with a touch of refinement that enhances comfort and reduces fatigue during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Ice and KTT Rose linear switches deliver enjoyable sound and feel, they cater to slightly different preferences. The Ice is ideal for users who appreciate a satisfying and pronounced typing sound coupled with a smooth actuation, while the Rose suits those who prefer a gentle and polished experience with a mellow auditory profile. Regardless of choice, both switches can provide a fulfilling typing experience, ensuring that newcomers can find a satisfying option that meets their needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Ice and KTT Rose linear switches should ultimately depend on your personal preferences and how you intend to use your keyboard. If you're looking for a smooth, responsive feel with a satisfying bottom-out sound that enhances both gaming and everyday typing experiences, the TTC Ice might be the better option for you. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams offers a balanced typing experience that caters well to a diverse range of users. However, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch that provides a unique, substantial feel without being overly taxing on your fingers, the KTT Rose could be ideal. With its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams and the use of progressive springs, it offers a more pronounced tactile experience that many find satisfying. Additionally, if you enjoy low-pitched, bassy sounds while typing, the KTT Rose's mellow tone will likely appeal to you, giving you a keyboard experience that feels refined and polished. Ultimately, both switches have their merits; it comes down to whether you prioritize a lightweight, smooth action or a weighted, bassy experience.
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