TTC Ice vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Ice and Huano Sakura both present compelling options for typists and gamers alike, yet they cater to different preferences and styles. The TTC Ice switch stands out with its striking crystal-clear design, delivering a smooth and responsive typing experience complemented by a satisfying bottom-out sound. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a clacky and feathery feel, making it a great choice for both gaming and everyday use. In contrast, the Huano Sakura switch offers a feather-light touch that is perfect for long typing sessions, boasting medium acoustics that strike a balance between sound and tactility. While the Ice may appeal to users seeking a more audible and dynamic experience, the Sakura caters to those who prioritize comfort over longer periods of use without sacrificing performance. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Ice and the Huano Sakura, we can observe notable differences in their construction and how they affect the overall sound profile. The Ice utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which is known for its stiffness and ability to produce a crisper sound profile. This results in a sharper and more resonant typing experience, particularly suited for users who appreciate a pronounced auditory feedback. The transparency of the polycarbonate also allows for effective RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch. In contrast, the Huano Sakura employs a combination of POK for its top housing and nylon for its bottom housing. POK, or polyketone, provides a smooth and clacky typing experience, while nylon contributes a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb sound.
The distinct characteristics of these materials lead to varied auditory results. The Ice's consistent use of polycarbonate creates uniform sound qualities across both the top and bottom housings, offering a well-defined auditory experience. In comparison, the Huano Sakura's combination of POK and nylon creates a dynamic interplay between the sounds generated by the top and bottom housings. The POK material enhances the top-end frequencies, while the nylon dampens the sound produced at the bottom, resulting in a more complex layering of sounds. Therefore, while both switch types can achieve high levels of auditory pleasure, they do so through different material interactions that cater to diverse preferences among typists.
Moreover, durability and tactile feedback differ significantly between the two switches owing to their material choices. The polycarbonate used in the Ice's construction provides a robust and resilient feel, ensuring longevity without compromising sound clarity. However, the Huano Sakura benefits from nylon's inherent flexibility, which contributes a more subdued yet rich sound experience. On the durability front, POK's impressive wear and shock resistance make it a strong contender, offering a level of reliability that, while different from polycarbonate, can still hold its own under regular use. In essence, both switches can be tailored to provide satisfying typing experiences; however, the varying materials provide unique tactile responses and sound profiles that ultimately appeal to different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Ice switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classifying it as a medium-force switch. In contrast, the Sakura switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer typing experience. This lighter design of the Sakura allows for extended typing sessions without fatigue, ideal for both office work and prolonged gaming. Meanwhile, the Ice switch, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial feedback during typing, providing a more tactile experience. Therefore, users can expect a more pronounced push feel from the Ice, while the Sakura offers a smoother and lighter touch.
Travel distance
The TTC Ice linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that they provide identical key travel from the top to the bottom when pressed. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users can expect a comparable tactile experience and response when engaging either switch. As a result, for those seeking a consistent feel during typing or gaming, the TTC Ice and Huano Sakura switches would yield similar performance outcomes due to their equal travel distances.
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 Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
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 switches produce a distinctively clacky sound profile that is sharp and snappy upon actuation. This crisp and bright auditory feedback adds an engaging percussive quality to the typing experience, appealing particularly to users who appreciate a more lively sound while typing or gaming. In contrast, specific details about the sound characteristics of the Huano Sakura switches are not provided, leaving an ambiguity in their acoustic qualities. However, it’s important to note that the acoustic experience of any switch can also be influenced by the keyboard design, construction, and keycap material used.
Focusing on the feel, the TTC Ice switches are recognized for their feathery touch, requiring minimal effort to press. This lightweight actuation force reduces finger fatigue effectively, which is especially beneficial during prolonged usage, whether for gaming or typing tasks. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available regarding the tactile feedback or actuation force of the Huano Sakura switches, which leaves room for interpretation about how they may compare in terms of comfort and performance during long typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the TTC Ice and Huano Sakura switches exhibit distinct characteristics suited to different user preferences. The Ice switches are tailored towards users who enjoy a pronounced acoustics and a light, comfortable feel, making them a solid option for gaming and extensive typing. While the Sakura's specifics remain unknown regarding sound and feel, it's likely they provide a different yet potentially satisfying experience, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing environment with a lightweight touch. Ultimately, both switches can yield positive results depending on individual typing styles and preferences, allowing newcomers to choose based on what features resonate most with their needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch largely hinges on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you favor a medium bottom-out force and enjoy a clacky, satisfying sound with a smooth and responsive feel, the TTC Ice switch would be an excellent fit for you, especially if you engage in both gaming and regular typing. Its crystal-clear design and enhanced auditory feedback can elevate your typing experience, making each keystroke rewarding. On the other hand, if you prioritize a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 45 grams, the Huano Sakura switch is ideal for extended typing sessions, as it minimizes finger fatigue. Its medium acoustics provide a more subdued sound profile, which might be preferable in quieter environments. Ultimately, consider how you want your keyboard to feel and sound during use; choosing the Ice for a more tactile and auditory experience or opting for the Sakura for a lighter touch that supports prolonged typing tasks will guide you toward the switch that best suits your needs.
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