TTC Ice vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the TTC Ice and the Wuque Studio WS Red can significantly impact your typing and gaming experience. The TTC Ice is celebrated for its stunning crystal-clear design and smooth, responsive feel, providing a satisfying bottom-out sound that enhances both gaming and everyday use. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate a premium typing experience with a clean aesthetic. In contrast, the WS Red features a unique 22mm double-stage spring, offering a bouncy, responsive feel with a heavier actuation force that delivers a more substantial typing experience. This switch appeals to those who prefer a tactile sensation and a familiar sound signature derived from its classic material blend. While both switches excel in different aspects—one highlighting aesthetic appeal and smooth operation, the other emphasizing tactile feedback and actuation weight—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
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
3.80 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the TTC Ice and the Wuque Studio WS Red, a significant difference arises in the materials used for their top housings: polycarbonate versus nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Ice is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffer nature contributes to clearer and more resonant sound, allowing RGB lighting to shine through beautifully due to its translucency. In contrast, the WS Red's nylon top housing is characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs sound more effectively than the harder polycarbonate. While both materials affect the overall auditory experience, their differing properties lead to distinct sound qualities—higher clarity with the Ice and greater warmth with the WS Red.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the two switches utilize polycarbonate and nylon, respectively, leading to a consistent divergence in sound experience based on material choice. The Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing ensures a continuation of the sharper sound profile that complements its top housing. It amplifies the overall clarity and resonance when a key is bottomed out. Conversely, the WS Red's nylon bottom housing reinforces the deeper sound profile initiated by its top. Its ability to absorb sound contributes to a rounded auditory experience, which may feel more muted in comparison to the Ice but offers a satisfying and cushioned feedback as the key is pressed down.
The interplay between these materials in the two keyboards reflects their distinctive acoustic signatures when typing. When pressing the keys, the impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced, especially in the WS Red, where the softer nylon offers a plush feel and sound diversity. The Ice, with its all-polycarbonate construction, results in greater responsiveness during key release, yielding a bright note as keys snap back into place. Consequently, the combined effects of these materials delineate their respective sound profiles; despite their construction differences, both switches can provide enjoyable typing experiences. Users who seek a sharper sound may prefer the Ice, while those inclined towards deeper acoustics may gravitate to the WS Red.
Weight
The TTC Ice linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch present distinct characteristics in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ice switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium option that balances comfort for extended typing sessions with a satisfying keystroke response. In contrast, the WS Red switch has an unknown actuation force, but its bottom out force reaches 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This means the WS Red provides a firmer push feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the TTC Ice is the lighter option, which may suit users looking for a switch that facilitates prolonged typing or gaming, while the Wuque Studio WS Red, being heavier, might appeal to those who enjoy a stronger feedback during their key presses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, we find that the Ice has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Ice the shorter option, which may cater to those seeking quicker response times, especially favored by gamers. Conversely, the WS Red's 3.8 mm travel distance provides a more traditional feel that some users may find offers a more satisfying depth, allowing for a more pronounced actuation. Thus, for those who prioritize a swift key press, the TTC Ice would be the preferred switch, whereas individuals who value a more substantial key travel might lean towards the WS Red.
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 Red comes in at $3.50 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 is noted for its satisfying bottom-out sound, which creates an enjoyable auditory experience when typing or gaming. This signature sound contributes to its premium feel, making it particularly appealing for users who appreciate both the auditory feedback and visual design of their switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch retains a classic sound signature due to its traditional material blend. While it may not have the same depth of sound as the Ice, it provides a consistent auditory profile that aligns well with the expectations of linear switches. It's worth noting that the overall sound experience can be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard’s construction and the keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Ice linear switch offers a smooth and responsive typing experience, making it ideal for all types of users from gamers to typists. This seamless actuation lends itself well to rapid key presses and long typing sessions without fatigue. In comparison, the WS Red switch employs a 22mm double-stage spring that contributes to a bouncier and more responsive feel. The heavier actuation force provides a noticeable weight to each keystroke, which may appeal to those who prefer a slightly more tactile resistance as they type or game. While the Ice allows for a smoother glide during keystrokes, the WS Red’s added resistance can deliver a more engaged typing experience.
In conclusion, both the TTC Ice and Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Users seeking a visually impressive switch with a smooth feel and engaging sound may gravitate towards the Ice. Conversely, those who appreciate a bit of resistance alongside a classic sound signature will likely favor the WS Red. Ultimately, while they provide somewhat different experiences, both switches can deliver satisfying results tailored to individual typing styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between TTC Ice linear switches and Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and the experience you seek from your keyboard. If you prefer a lighter touch with a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, along with a smooth, responsive feel and a satisfying sound, the TTC Ice would be an excellent choice for you. These switches shine in both gaming and everyday typing, making them versatile for various tasks. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a slightly heftier keypress that offers a more substantial tactile response, the WS Red's medium-heavy 67 grams bottom-out force would serve you better. With a unique 22mm double-stage spring design, these switches provide a bouncy and responsive feel, delivering a classic typing experience that many find appealing. In sum, if you value a lighter and smoother typing experience with an eye-catching design, opt for the TTC Ice; conversely, if you enjoy a firmer keystroke that gives you a satisfying sense of weight and feedback, go for the WS Red. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by the balance between feel, sound, and the overall typing experience you desire.
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