TTC Ice vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, both the TTC Ice and Everglide Tourmaline Blue present compelling options for typists and gamers alike, yet they cater to slightly different preferences. The TTC Ice switches are celebrated for their crystal-clear design and smooth tactile response, delivering a premium typing experience. Their satisfying bottom-out sound makes them an excellent choice for those who appreciate clarity and precision in their keystrokes, whether in gaming or everyday tasks. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches are known for their deep, thocky sound profile, enhancing each keystroke with a bouncy feel thanks to their lengthened single-stage spring. This combination of a standard spring weight and immersion in sound makes the Tourmaline Blue appealing to a broad audience, offering a more playful, enjoyable typing experience. Although both switches have their unique advantages, it’s essential to consider your personal typing style and sound preferences. 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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Ice and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches are both made from polycarbonate, which creates a distinct sound profile that is shared between the two models. The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound that is pleasing to many users. This consistency in materials results in a clearer and more resonant audio experience, making both switches ideal for those desiring an enhanced acoustic performance. The polycarbonate's rigidity helps to amplify certain sound characteristics, allowing both switches to produce similar auditory results when actuated.
Aesthetically, both the Ice and Tourmaline Blue switches feature clear housings that highlight the translucent nature of the polycarbonate. This translucency not only showcases the internal components of the switch but also enhances the visual appeal when RGB lighting is utilized. Since both switches employ the same housing material, users can expect a parallel effect in terms of lighting ambiance and color diffusion. This shared property positions both models as viable alternatives for users who prioritize vibrant RGB effects alongside sound quality, without sacrificing aesthetic cohesion.
While the housing materials are identical, which leads to the similarities in sound and aesthetics, it is noteworthy that the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback will be influenced by other components within each switch. Therefore, even with the polycarbonate housing, the overall experience may vary slightly based on internal mechanics, such as the springs or sliders used within each model. However, if a user is seeking a particular sound profile and a distinct visual presentation with RGB compatibility, both the TTC Ice and Everglide Tourmaline Blue are equally equipped to deliver comparable results due to their use of polycarbonate in every functional aspect of their design.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The TTC Ice features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the 59 grams required by the Tourmaline Blue, making it more suitable for users who prefer a gentler touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Likewise, the bottom out force of the Ice is 60 grams, which is also lighter than the 67 grams of the Tourmaline Blue. This makes the Ice switch a better option for those who favor a softer, less fatiguing feel, whereas the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Tourmaline Blue cater to users seeking a more substantial and firm typing experience. Overall, if users opt for the TTC Ice for its lighter touch, they can expect a smoother, less strenuous use compared to the more pronounced feel of the Everglide Tourmaline Blue.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, the two clearly differ. The TTC Ice features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Everglide Tourmaline Blue extends to 4 mm. This makes the Ice switch the shorter option, appealing to those who favor quick responsiveness, such as gamers seeking rapid key presses. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue with its longer travel distance might provide a more substantial depth, which some users find preferable for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value speed or depth in your key switches.
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 Everglide Tourmaline Blue has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tourmaline Blue for $3.89.
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 comparing the sound of the TTC Ice linear switch to the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, the Ice is notable for producing a satisfying bottom-out sound that enhances the typing experience, although specific details about its sound are not thoroughly described. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue is characterized by a deep and thocky sound profile, which can be very satisfying for those who appreciate auditory feedback in their typing. This makes the Tourmaline Blue particularly appealing for users seeking a more immersive sound during use. Both switches depend on various factors, such as keyboard construction and keycap selection, but if you prefer a more pronounced auditory experience, the Tourmaline Blue may be the better option.
In terms of feel, the Ice switch boasts a smooth and responsive typing experience, allowing for efficient input suitable for both gaming and everyday use. However, further specific descriptors of its tactile quality are not provided. Conversely, the Tourmaline Blue switches offer a buttery feel with a bouncy actuation, providing effortless key presses that require minimal force to activate. This light actuation minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of users. With their mild characteristics, the Tourmaline Blue strikes an excellent balance between comfort and performance, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, both the TTC Ice and Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switches cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a smooth action with a satisfying bottom-out sound, the Ice switch could serve you well. However, if you prioritize a deep sound profile with a buttery, low-impact feel, the Tourmaline Blue might be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, your decision may come down to your personal preferences, as both options promise rewarding experiences tailored to various typing and gaming needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, it’s essential to consider your particular preferences and typing environment. If you desire a smooth and responsive typing experience coupled with a premium feel, the TTC Ice is an excellent choice, particularly for those who engage in both gaming and efficient typing tasks. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams provides a satisfying balance, making it ideal for users who prefer a little more agility in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you favor a deeper, thocky sound that immerses you in a pleasant acoustic environment, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue might be your best bet. With its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams and buttery smooth feel, this switch offers a more substantial response and a bouncier typing experience, which can be particularly enjoyable for prolonged typing sessions. Moreover, if you tend to type in quieter settings or appreciate an accessible switch that caters to a wide range of users, the versatile characteristics of the Tourmaline Blue can enhance your overall satisfaction. Ultimately, both options are fantastic, but your choice should reflect your personal typing style, sound preference, and ergonomic needs.
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