TTC Ice vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the TTC Ice and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), both of which are linear switches designed to enhance your typing and gaming experience. The TTC Ice switch is celebrated for its striking crystal-clear transparent design, offering a smooth and responsive feel along with a gratifying bottom-out sound that elevates its premium tactile experience, making it an excellent choice for users looking for both aesthetics and performance. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch is renowned for its super smooth typing experience, thanks to its Ly stems, which contribute to a resonant sound profile that many typists may find appealing. While the Ice switches lean towards a clacky and feathery feel, the Tomcat (Heavy) promises a more solid and substantial auditory feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference—whether you prioritize visual flair and responsive feedback or a robust and smooth typing experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
Extended spring
Housing materials
The TTC Ice and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) both incorporate polycarbonate material in their top housings, which results in a notably sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This commonality stems from the inherent qualities of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that allows for clearer resonance. Aesthetically, the clear nature of polycarbonate also enhances the RGB lighting experience, offering a vibrant and illuminated effect when this lighting is employed. In both switches, the use of polycarbonate for the top housing underscores the intention to deliver a tactile and auditory experience that caters to enthusiasts who prioritize clarity in sound and visual appeal.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches are made from different materials, which contributes distinctively to their overall sound profile. While the Ice opts for polycarbonate, mirroring the top housing and thereby maintaining a consistent tone with a sharper character, the Tomcat (Heavy) utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound and typically produces a deeper and fuller acoustic experience. Thus, the Ice offers continuity in sound characteristics from top to bottom, while the Tomcat benefits from the contrasting qualities that nylon brings to the switch, leading to a richer and rounder sound on bottom-out actions.
This divergence in housing materials means that the TTC Ice is likely to deliver a more cohesive sound experience, with its polycarbonate components working in harmony to maintain clarity in both the press and release of the keys. Conversely, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offers a more layered auditory profile, characterized by a crisp sound upon release from the polycarbonate top, combined with the rounder, deeper tones of the nylon bottom during actuation. Ultimately, users who appreciate the interplay between sound and feel might find that both switches offer unique yet compelling tactile experiences, showcasing their individual strengths while highlighting the fundamental role that housing materials play in defining the characteristics of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, there are noticeable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force, which can significantly influence user preference. The TTC Ice has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as medium in terms of sensitivity and feel. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, making it medium-heavy. This means that users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may find the TTC Ice more comfortable, as it requires less force to actuate the switch. Meanwhile, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push should gravitate towards the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy). Overall, the TTC Ice is the lighter option, while the Tomcat is notably heavier, catering to different ergonomic preferences.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Ice linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning they provide an identical tactile experience when pressing down on the key. This uniformity in travel distance ensures that users can expect a similar feel and responsiveness from both switches, resulting in a consistent typing experience. Ultimately, whether choosing the Ice or the Tomcat (Heavy), users will enjoy the same level of travel distance, allowing for straightforward comparisons based on other characteristics such as sound, actuation force, or build quality.
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 Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99 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 clacky quality, producing a sharp and snappy sound upon actuation. This crisp, bright, and percussive sound can enhance the overall typing experience, making it particularly appealing for users who enjoy an audibly satisfying feedback while typing or gaming. In contrast, the sound profile of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch remains unknown, leaving some uncertainty in terms of what auditory feedback it will provide during use. It's important to note that the ultimate sound produced by either switch can be significantly influenced by additional factors such as the construction of the keyboard itself and the choice of keycaps employed.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Ice switch offers a feathery sensation that is exceptionally light on actuation, requiring minimal effort from the fingers. This ergonomic characteristic reduces finger fatigue and makes it an excellent choice for long typing sessions and gaming marathons, allowing the user to type comfortably for extended periods without discomfort. The tactile feel of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch, however, is currently not specified, which may leave users wanting more information to decide on its suitability for their preferred typing style.
In conclusion, the TTC Ice linear switch stands out for its clacky sound and feathery feel, making it a superb choice for those who prioritize an engaging auditory experience and comfort during extended use. The Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch remains a bit of a mystery in terms of sound and feel, but if you seek switches with similar qualities to the Ice, you might find that the Ice could meet your needs effectively. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback, ensuring that users can find a switch that best fits their typing style and requirements.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, your preferences and typing habits will play a significant role. If you value a smooth, responsive experience with a slightly lighter actuation force, the Ice switch may be the ideal choice for you. Its clear design not only adds a touch of visual appeal but also delivers a clacky sound that enhances your typing experience, making it suitable for both gaming and everyday tasks. Alternatively, if you prefer a more pronounced feedback and a bit of extra resistance, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch, with its 64 grams of bottom-out force and superbly smooth feel thanks to the Ly stems, might be better suited for you. The resonant sound profile of the Tomcat adds character to your keystrokes, making it a fantastic option for those who appreciate a solid, satisfying feel during intense typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, your choice should align with your specific needs for comfort, sound, and overall typing experience.
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