TTC Ice vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, two popular linear options, the TTC Ice and the Bsun Taichi, stand out for their unique characteristics. The TTC Ice switches are celebrated for their stunning crystal-clear transparent design, offering a smooth, responsive typing experience complemented by a satisfying bottom-out sound. This makes them an excellent choice for both gaming enthusiasts looking for performance and users seeking a premium typing feel for everyday tasks. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi switches aim to impress with their high-pitched bottom-out sound, thanks to their long-pole stems, extended springs, and walled stems, which provide an extraordinary level of smoothness and stability. This switch is ideal for typists who appreciate auditory feedback and a consistent keystroke experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The TTC Ice and the Bsun Taichi keyboards both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a similar tonal profile characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to the clarity and resonance of the sound, making it desirable for users who prioritize auditory feedback from their switches. Moreover, the translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal when RGB lighting is applied, allowing light to diffuse beautifully through the housing. This matching top housing material ensures that both keyboards provide a consistent experience for users who favor bright, crisp sounds when typing or gaming.
In contrast, while both keyboards share similar top housing materials, they diverge significantly in their bottom housing compositions. The Ice employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, forecasting a cohesive auditory experience throughout the switch. This choice reinforces the sharp acoustic profile established by the top housing. On the other hand, the Taichi features nylon in its bottom housing, known for creating a fuller, more profound sound due to its softer composition, which absorbs sound waves more than harder plastics. This combination introduces a contrast in the overall sound experience of each keyboard, with the Ice favoring a more high-pitched resonance, while the Taichi provides a deeper auditory experience.
The differing bottom housing materials imply that the tactile and auditory feedback between the two keyboards will be nuanced. For the TTC Ice, users will experience a more homogenous acoustic performance as both the top and bottom housings resonate with a similar clarity. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi's distinct bottom housing will produce a rounder sound profile that is more muted than that of the Ice. Consequently, while both keyboards excel in providing sharp sounds through their polycarbonate tops, the Ice delivers a consistent, piercing audio signature, whereas the Taichi offers a captivating blend of high and low tones, thanks to the interplay between its materials.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, we notice distinct differences in their actuation forces. The Ice switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, compared to the lighter 40 grams of the Taichi switch. This means that users who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions might feel more at ease with the Taichi switch. However, the bottom out force of the Taichi switch remains unknown, making it difficult to fully assess its overall force dynamics in comparison to the Ice switch, which has a bottom out force of 60 grams. The heavier bottom out force of the Ice switch contributes to a more substantial typing experience, favored by those who appreciate a stronger push feel. Thus, while the Taichi offers a lighter actuation, the Ice provides a more defined tactile finish when bottoming out.
Travel distance
The TTC Ice linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that when pressed, they travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance suggests that users can expect a comparable feel and response when activating either switch. Consequently, for those prioritizing consistent key feedback and responsiveness in their typing experience, both switches will deliver similar results in this regard.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 provides a satisfying bottom-out sound that complements its smooth operation, making it enjoyable for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi linear switch boasts an enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, attributed to its long-pole stem and extended springs, which can be perceived as unique and distinctive. While both switches offer an appealing auditory experience, individual preferences for pitch and tone may sway users toward one switch over the other; it’s also important to remember that sound will vary based on the keyboard build and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the Ice switch is noted for its smooth and responsive characteristics, providing a delightful typing experience. The design of the Taichi switch, with its long-pole stem and walled stems, aims to enhance smoothness and stability, contributing to an overall sensation of firmness and reliability during use. Although both switches deliver a premium feel, the Taichi’s engineering focuses on stability, which may cater to users who prioritize consistent tactile feedback throughout their typing sessions.
In conclusion, the TTC Ice and Bsun Taichi linear switches each offer unique auditory and tactile characteristics suited to different user preferences. While the Ice aims for a satisfying bottom-out sound and responsive feel, the Taichi highlights its enchanting sound profile and an emphasis on smoothness and stability. Ultimately, both switches can provide an enjoyable typing and gaming experience, and the choice between them will largely depend on personal preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience and the specific use you have in mind. If you seek a switch that strikes a balance between medium force and smooth keypresses, the Ice switch may be the best choice for you. Its crystal-clear design not only enhances aesthetics but also provides a satisfying sound and tactile feedback, making it an excellent option for both gaming and everyday tasks. On the other hand, if you are after an enchanting auditory experience and unmatched smoothness during keystrokes, the Taichi switch with its unique long-pole stem and extended springs would be more suitable for your needs. This switch's high-pitched bottom-out sound is perfect for those who enjoy a distinct acoustical feedback while typing. Consider what aspects matter most—be it the look, feel, or sound of the switches—and choose accordingly to optimize your mechanical keyboard experience.
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