TTC Ice vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, choosing the right switch can significantly impact your typing and gaming experience. The TTC Ice switch stands out with its crystal-clear design, offering a smooth, responsive feel coupled with a clacky and feathery sound, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A switch, part of Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash" / SLAY series, provides a balanced medium-weight feel with a deeper sound signature, perfect for users who appreciate a more subdued auditory experience. Each switch has its unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, whether you favor the vibrant, lively typing experience of the Ice or the muted, comfortable feedback of the Type A. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Ice and Gateron Type A switches, a stark contrast emerges due to the differing properties of polycarbonate and nylon. The TTC Ice features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing which provides a sound profile characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper acoustic experience. This is largely attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances resonance and clarity. In addition to its auditory characteristics, the translucency of polycarbonate allows it to effectively showcase RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for users looking to enhance the aesthetics of their mechanical keyboards. Conversely, the Gateron Type A utilizes nylon for its top and bottom housings, resulting in a sound that can be described as deeper and fuller. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively than its polycarbonate counterpart, leading to a more muted and rounded auditory experience.
Furthermore, while both switches utilize different materials, the impact each housing type has on the overall typing experience varies. The TTC Ice, with its polycarbonate shell, delivers a sound profile that resonates more when keys are released. This characteristic might appeal to users looking for a pronounced auditory feedback upon key release, enhancing their typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Type A's nylon housing contributes to a more subdued soundscape, particularly noticeable on bottoming out. Users might prefer this softer feedback if they favor a quieter keyboard or a more cushioned feel during typing sessions.
Despite the differences in sound and feel due to the materials used, both the TTC Ice and Gateron Type A can produce similar typing results through the interplay of their respective housing qualities. If you were to mix the two types of housings, the keypress performance would be shaped by both the stiffer polycarbonate and the softer nylon, allowing for varying levels of auditory feedback and tactile response. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as each material brings its own unique attributes that cater to different typing styles and environments.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ice switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Type A features a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams but a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Ice switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, making it potentially more suitable for long typing sessions or gaming as it requires less effort to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Type A provides a marginally stronger push feel at actuation but a softer landing when bottoming out. For users seeking a more substantial tactile experience, the TTC Ice's heavier bottom out might be preferred. Overall, while both switches offer medium to medium-light forces, the TTC Ice is the lighter of the two, allowing users to enjoy extended use more comfortably.
Travel distance
The TTC Ice linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Type A linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. In this comparison, the Ice switch offers a shorter travel distance than the Type A, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times for their keystrokes. Since shorter travel distances can lead to a more immediate tactile feedback, the Ice could be preferable for those who prioritize speed. Conversely, the Gateron Type A, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial depth feeling when pressed, making it suitable for users who appreciate a more traditional typing experience or find shorter distances to be too abrupt. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your preference for responsiveness versus depth.
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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Ice linear switches produce a clacky audio profile that gives a sharp, bright, and percussive feedback with each keystroke. This clackiness enhances the overall typing experience, making it enjoyable for those who appreciate auditory satisfaction while using their keyboard. In contrast, the Gateron Type A switches feature a more neutral sound signature that is moderate and well-balanced. Although these switches can be categorized as subdued, they are not silent; they provide a more subtle sound experience, which might appeal to users who prefer a quieter environment without completely sacrificing auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the TTC Ice switches offer a feathery touch, requiring minimal effort to actuate. This lighter actuation force can lead to reduced finger fatigue during extended use, making these switches especially comfortable for gaming, typing, or prolonged work sessions. The Gateron Type A's tactile characteristics are not defined in the given context, though they are marketed as a medium-weight switch, suggesting they strike a balance that may offer a more moderate feel. Thus, while users of both switches may find their experiences enjoyable, the Ice switches clearly cater to those who prioritize a lighter touch.
Overall, both the TTC Ice and Gateron Type A linear switches provide unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The Ice stands out with its clacky sound and feathery feel, ideal for users who enjoy responsive feedback and a lightweight touch. On the other hand, the Type A offers a more neutral auditory experience while maintaining a compromise in actuation force, making it suitable for various environments. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize auditory glee or a balanced feel in your typing endeavors.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, you'll want to consider your specific needs and preferences. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a bottom-out force of 60 grams, enjoy a clacky sound profile, and want a luxurious, smooth feel while typing, the TTC Ice switch might be the right choice for you. Its stunning design and satisfying auditory feedback make it an excellent option for both gaming and everyday tasks, particularly if you enjoy a responsive and premium typing experience. On the other hand, if you're looking for something lighter and more subdued, the Gateron Type A switch could be ideal. With its medium-light actuation force of 55 grams, it offers a neutral sound profile that's perfect for various environments—be it at home or in a professional setting—making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users alike. Ultimately, your choice should hinge on whether you prioritize a slightly heavier feel and a more vibrant sound, or if you prefer a subtle, quieter typing experience that balances performance and comfort.
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