TTC Ice vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, users often find themselves torn between the TTC Ice and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl, both linear switches that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The TTC Ice is renowned for its stunning transparent design and delivers a smooth, responsive feel paired with a satisfying bottom-out sound, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike who appreciate a premium experience. On the other hand, the WS Pearl stands out with its innovative ball-bearing mechanism that significantly reduces friction during keystrokes, resulting in an extraordinarily smooth typing experience complemented by a medium-high pitched sound signature. Both switches have their unique charm: the Ice excels in aesthetics and acoustic satisfaction, while the WS Pearl offers unparalleled smoothness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs most effectively.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Partial box
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
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the TTC Ice and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl, the distinction between their housing materials is particularly pronounced due to their differing compositions. The Ice utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to a sound profile characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper acoustic experience. This material's stiffness allows for a more pronounced resonance, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts who appreciate a clearer sound, particularly when RGB lighting is in play. In contrast, the WS Pearl features nylon housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for a more muted acoustics, lending the typing experience a rounder quality that could be more appealing for users seeking a subtler auditory feedback.
In terms of aesthetic qualities, the Ice's polycarbonate housing also shines through with its translucency, ideally suited for showcasing RGB lighting effects. The clarity of polycarbonate enables vibrant lighting to emanate through the switch, making it an attractive option for gamers or those who enjoy customizing their keyboard's appearance. The WS Pearl, while not as translucent as the Ice, offers its own unique visual appeal with a classic nylon finish that has stood the test of time. Users seeking a softer aesthetic may find the textured feel and muted look of the WS Pearl more inviting, highlighting a preference for function over flamboyance in design.
Overall, the different housing materials of the Ice and WS Pearl lead to distinctive auditory profiles and aesthetic choices. Users who are drawn to the Ice will experience a more energizing and clear response with each keystroke due to the polycarbonate’s properties. Conversely, those who prefer the WS Pearl will enjoy a smoother and more resonant typing experience that emphasizes depth over sharpness. While the two switches cater to different tactile and auditory preferences, they each offer their own unique advantages. Ultimately, users choosing between these two options can end up with an overall satisfying experience that complements their keyboard setup, even if their sound profiles diverge significantly.
Weight
The TTC Ice linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch exhibit notable differences in actuation force while displaying a similarity in bottom-out force. The Ice switch features a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the WS Pearl's lighter 30 grams, making the Ice switch more demanding to press. This may contribute to a more substantial typing experience favored by users who prefer a stronger push feel. Conversely, the WS Pearl's lighter actuation force allows for easier keystrokes, which can be advantageous for those engaged in extended typing or gaming sessions. Both switches have similar bottom-out forces, with the Ice at 60 grams and the Pearl slightly lower at 58 grams, resulting in comparable experiences when fully pressed down. Overall, if you prefer a lighter switch, the WS Pearl would be the better option, while the TTC Ice provides a heavier feel for those seeking more resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, the TTC Ice features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Pearl has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the WS Pearl offers a marginally quicker response time, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking faster actuation. On the other hand, the TTC Ice's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel for users who prefer a deeper press when typing, potentially offering a more satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the WS Pearl might be the better choice, while those who appreciate a more pronounced activation may lean towards the Ice.
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 Pearl comes in at $6.00 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Ice linear switch delivers a satisfying bottom-out tone that enhances the overall typing experience, making it appealing for both casual and serious typists. The clarity of the switch's design contributes to a more pronounced acoustic response. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl produces a medium-high pitched sound signature, which is distinctly different from the Ice. While the Ice focuses on a fuller bottom-out sound, the WS Pearl's use of ball-bearings may contribute to a crisper delivery during keystrokes. Ultimately, the sound profile of each switch is affected by external factors like the keyboard board and keycaps, but their individual traits give them unique auditory characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Ice switch is celebrated for its smooth and responsive action, allowing for a fluid typing experience that many users find rewarding. It provides a gentle resistance that makes each keystroke satisfying. On the other hand, the WS Pearl elevates the smoothness factor even further due to its innovative ball-bearing design that significantly reduces friction during keystrokes. This results in a surreal and almost effortless typing experience, setting it apart from the Ice. While both switches prioritize a smooth feel, the Pearl's construction may provide a more distinct tactile sensation compared to the already impressive smoothness of the Ice.
In conclusion, both the TTC Ice and Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Ice is recognized for its satisfying bottom-out sound and smooth responsiveness, while the WS Pearl boasts an unparalleled friction-reduced typing experience with a distinct sound signature. Although they each carry their own qualities, both can provide enjoyable and efficient typing experiences. Therefore, choosing between them largely comes down to personal taste in sound character and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, you should consider your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a premium typing experience with a smooth and responsive feel, along with a satisfying bottom-out sound that complements both gaming and typing, the TTC Ice switch would be an excellent choice. Its medium 60-gram bottom-out force strikes a balance that makes long typing sessions comfortable without being overly straining. Conversely, if you seek unparalleled smoothness in keystrokes and appreciate innovative design features, the WS Pearl stands out with its unique ball-bearing mechanism that reduces friction, resulting in an exceptionally smooth typing experience. Additionally, if you prefer a medium-light 58-gram bottom-out force for faster key presses and enjoy a medium-high pitched sound signature, the WS Pearl will likely cater to your needs better. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on whether you favor a classic, satisfying feel with the Ice or the modern, frictionless experience offered by the WS Pearl.
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