TTC Ice vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing and gaming experience. The TTC Ice switch, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth and responsive action, along with a satisfying bottom-out sound that makes every keystroke feel premium. Its crystal-clear transparent design not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also delivers consistent performance, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike seeking fluidity and speed. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch is a tactile switch that stands out with its gentle tactile feedback and smooth actuation, providing a pleasing "pop" that enhances the typing experience. With a neutral sound signature, the Violets cater to users looking for a well-rounded option that balances both feel and sound. While the Ice switch is ideal for those who prefer a quick and uninterrupted typing experience, the Violet switch appeals to those who enjoy the satisfying feedback of tactile responses. 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
45g
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
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Ice and the Jerrzi Violet switches share a commonality in their top housing, both utilizing polycarbonate materials. This similarity ensures that they will produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when compared to switches made from softer plastics. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to the clarity and resonance of the sound, making it an excellent choice for a top housing, particularly for users who enjoy RGB lighting; the translucency of polycarbonate allows light to pass through effectively, enhancing the visual aspect of the switch. Consequently, both switches benefit from a sound signature that appeals to enthusiasts seeking an articulate auditory experience.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the TTC Ice and Jerrzi Violet switches exhibit significant differences, with the Ice featuring a polycarbonate material and the Violet utilizing nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Ice continues the trend of delivering a clear, resonant sound profile that is consistent with its top housing. In comparison, the nylon bottom housing of the Jerrzi Violet produces a deeper, fuller sound due to its softer properties, which absorb sound more effectively. This divergence in materials leads to varying auditory experiences when typing; the Ice emphasizes a more pronounced sound when bottoming out, while the Violet provides a thuddier and more rounded sound that some users might find more pleasant and muffled.
Ultimately, the contrasting materials in the bottom housing between the TTC Ice and the Jerrzi Violet result in switches that offer distinctive sound profiles based on their respective designs. The Ice, with polycarbonate in both housings, maintains a consistent sharpness in sound across the typing experience, whereas the Violet implements a blend of clear highs and softer lows, creating a more textured sound. For those interested in the synthesis of the different character traits, the Ice provides a clean, bright response, while the Violet invites a more subdued and warm impression to the typing experience, appealing to a variety of user preferences based on their unique sound expectations.
Weight
The TTC Ice linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch present interesting similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches share an identical actuation force of 45 grams, which delivers a consistent typing experience for users who favor lighter switches, allowing for extended periods of use during typing or gaming sessions. However, the TTC Ice has a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a firmer feel upon fully depressing the key. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Jerrzi Violet is unavailable, meaning we cannot make a direct comparison in this regard. As a result, while both switches provide a light actuation force, the TTC Ice is the heavier option due to its defined bottom out force, catering to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, we find that the Ice switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Violet switch measures slightly longer at 3.7 mm. This makes the Ice switch the shorter option by just 0.1 mm. In terms of performance, gamers might prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ice for its quicker response times, which can be advantageous in fast-paced situations. However, some users may find the additional depth of the Violet switch more satisfying, as it offers a more pronounced feel when pressed. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding key travel responsiveness and the tactile experience.
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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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 TTC Ice linear switch is known for producing a satisfying bottom-out sound, which helps create an engaging auditory feedback while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a neutral sound profile, characterized by a moderate sound that fits well into various settings, whether at home or in the office. This means that while the Ice switch provides a distinct auditory pleasure, the Violet offers a more balanced sound experience that might be less intrusive in quieter environments. Both switches can complement a variety of keycap and board choices, which can further influence how they sound in practice.
When it comes to feel, the Ice switch offers a smooth and responsive typing experience, allowing for quick actuation without any tactile bumps—a feature that appeals greatly to those who prioritize speed, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Violet switch features a stepped tactile feel, which provides a discernible bump during the keypress. This tactile feedback helps users acknowledge actuation without needing to bottom out the key, making it suitable for those who prefer a more mindful typing experience. While both switches have their unique characteristics, the Ice is geared more towards those who appreciate a smooth, uninterrupted keypress, while the Violet caters to users who enjoy tactile feedback.
In combining all the information, the TTC Ice linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Ice emphasizes clarity in sound and smoothness in operation, making it a strong choice for gamers and fast typists. Conversely, the Violet offers a gentle tactile experience with a neutral sound profile, appealing to users who appreciate a tactile response without excessive noise. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preferences, whether one desires the smooth and responsive experience of the Ice or the balanced tactile feedback of the Violet.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and how you intend to use your keyboard. If you favor a smooth, uninterrupted key press with a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, the TTC Ice is an excellent choice for both gaming and everyday tasks, offering a premium feel and responsive feedback. The crystal-clear design also adds an aesthetic element to your setup, making it particularly appealing for those who appreciate a visually striking keyboard. On the other hand, if you enjoy the nuanced feel of a tactile switch with a gentle tactile bump, the Jerrzi Violet might be the better option for you. The neutral sound profile and stepped actuation provide a more balanced typing experience, making it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in the office. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a smooth linear action or the mild tactile feedback of a tactile switch. Both options offer enjoyable experiences, so consider what aspects of typing and gaming you value most in your mechanical keyboard journey.
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