TTC Ice vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to enhancing your typing experience, the choice of mechanical keyboard switches can make a significant difference. The TTC Ice switches, known for their stunning crystal-clear design, offer a clacky and feathery tactile sensation that makes them a favorite among gamers and everyday users alike. Their smooth and responsive feel, combined with a satisfying bottom-out sound, creates a premium typing atmosphere that many enthusiasts seek. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches prioritize innovation and aesthetics, featuring a light column that enhances RGB visuals and all-POM housings that deliver a muted sound profile. Classified as buttery and creamy, these switches offer an airy smoothness that appeals to those who prefer a subtle yet sophisticated typing experience. While the Ice might be your go-to if you enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback, the WS Morandi shines in environments where quieter operation and visual flair are paramount. 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the TTC Ice and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi, it becomes clear that the differing housing materials of these two switches significantly influence their overall sound profiles. The Ice employs polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The increased stiffness of polycarbonate adds clarity and resonance to the sound, making it particularly crisp, ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced keystroke feedback. Its translucency also makes it a popular choice for RGB backlighting, enhancing both the visual appeal and the audio experience of the switch. In contrast, the WS Morandi utilizes POM material for its top and bottom housings, which yields a sound profile characterized by deeper tones and a muted quality. This difference signifies that while the Ice is well-suited for users seeking a bright and clear auditory response, the Morandi caters to those who prefer a softer, more understated sound.
Despite their contrasting materials, both switches share an approach that emphasizes the unique qualities of their respective housings. The TTC Ice, with its polycarbonate construction, offers a consistent sound across both top and bottom housings, creating a cohesive auditory experience from key press to release. In contrast, the WS Morandi’s dual POM design gives it a distinctive character, blending the muted depth of sound with the overall feel of the switch. The impact of each housing material becomes particularly notable during operation—pressing down on either switch showcases the properties of the bottom housing, while the release phase emphasizes the top housing's influence. This interplay of materials ensures that users can expect a nuanced experience, whether they lean towards the bright clarity of polycarbonate or the warm richness of POM.
Ultimately, both the TTC Ice and WS Morandi exemplify how housing materials can define the character of a switch, leading to varied user experiences. Those who favor the Ice will appreciate the sharper, more responsive sound, benefiting from the clarity that polycarbonate offers. Meanwhile, fans of the Morandi will enjoy the textured sound profile resulting from the POM construction, lending an elegance to their typing experience. Despite their inherent differences, both switches ultimately serve to cater to specific preferences in sound and feel, demonstrating that choice in housing material is pivotal in determining the tactile and auditory feedback each user will experience.
Weight
The TTC Ice linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch both exhibit similar bottom out forces at 60 grams, indicating that they provide a consistent resistance when fully pressed. However, their actuation forces differ, with the Ice switch requiring a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Morandi's 50 grams. This makes the Ice switch the lighter option, which might appeal to users who favor longer typing sessions and less fatigue during extended use, such as at work or during lengthy gaming marathons. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the WS Morandi might attract those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, as it provides a stronger tactile feedback when pressing the keys. Ultimately, while both switches share the same bottom out force, their differing actuation forces cater to different user preferences regarding typing feel and endurance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, we find that the Ice switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Morandi measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the WS Morandi the more responsive choice for gamers or those who prioritize quick actuation, as shorter travel distances can facilitate faster response times. On the other hand, the TTC Ice, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, your preference will dictate which switch suits you best; if you favor a quicker response, the WS Morandi is the way to go, but if you appreciate a deeper pressing experience, the Ice would be more suitable.
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 Wuque Studio WS Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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 switch has a distinctly clacky profile, producing a crisp, bright, and percussive sound that engages both the typist and those nearby. This sharp auditory feedback is particularly suited for users who appreciate an energetic acoustic response. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch delivers a low-pitched and thocky sound, presenting a deeper, bass-heavy tone when pressed. This mellow profile provides a more subdued yet rich auditory experience, favoring those who prefer a softer sound without the sharpness often associated with linear switches. Both switches offer unique sounds; however, the environment, including the keyboard build and keycap material, will further influence the final auditory result.
In terms of feel, the TTC Ice switch is characterized by its feathery lightness, making it exceptionally comfortable and reducing finger fatigue during prolonged usage. This feature is advantageous for both gamers and typists seeking a responsive and gentle keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switch boasts an array of feel descriptors, including buttery, creamy, and silky, all suggesting a remarkably smooth and enjoyable typing experience. This switch enhances the tactile feedback with a sense of effortless gliding over the keys, making it an attractive option for those who prioritize a seamless typing journey. While both switches cater to different preferences—lightness versus smooth comfort—they promise a satisfying experience in their respective domains.
In summary, both the TTC Ice and the WS Morandi linear switches present unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. The Ice switch offers a lively and upbeat auditory profile coupled with a light tactile feel, ideal for those who enjoy an energetic typing experience. Conversely, the WS Morandi combines a rich, muted sound with a smoother and more luxurious feel, making it more suited to users looking for a calming, silky experience. Ultimately, whether one prefers the vibrant engagement of the Ice or the tranquil ease of the Morandi, both can provide enjoyable results in user experience and satisfaction depending on individual taste and typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics. If you value a more pronounced auditory experience and enjoy a crisp, clacky sound that enhances your gaming sessions or typing routine, the TTC Ice switch would be a great fit for you. Its feathery touch allows for extended usage without causing finger fatigue, making it ideal for long hours of typing, gaming, or any task requiring rapid keystrokes. On the other hand, if you're leaning towards a more subdued sound profile that combines a deep, thocky resonance with an innovative design that accentuates RGB lighting, the WS Morandi should be your go-to option. Its buttery and creamy feel offers a luxurious typing experience, perfect for those who prioritize smoothness and aesthetics in their mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, consider how you want your keyboard to feel and sound when making your final decision, as both switches present unique qualities that cater to distinct typing experiences.
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