TTC Ice vs. TTC Yunhai

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Ice and TTC Yunhai present intriguing options for both gamers and typists, each with their own unique appeal. The TTC Ice switch is renowned for its stunning crystal-clear transparent design, coupled with a smooth and responsive feel that delivers a satisfying bottom-out sound, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking a premium typing experience suitable for both gaming and everyday tasks. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switches boast an incredibly light actuation force, providing a deep, rounded sound profile that caters to typists who favor a gentle and effortless feel under their fingers. While the Ice switch emphasizes a satisfying auditory experience along with its visual flair, the Yunhai switch prioritizes ease of use and a distinct acoustic quality. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs.

By the numbers

TTC Ice Linear

TTC Yunhai Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Ice and TTC Yunhai, a clear distinction emerges from their compositions. The TTC Ice features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which is known for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This characteristic creates a crisper auditory experience, making the Ice exceptionally well-suited for those who appreciate a clear and resonant sound while typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting applications, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a keyboard setup that incorporates lighting effects. This uniform polycarbonate construction ensures that users enjoy a consistent sound and feel across the entirety of the switch.

In contrast, the TTC Yunhai employs nylon as its housing material, which significantly alters the auditory experience while typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Ice's polycarbonate. This results in a more muted and rounded sound, which may appeal to users who prefer a less sharp auditory feedback while typing. The use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings in the Yunhai means that the switches absorb more sound, contributing to a different tactile sensation that contrasts with the Ice’s sharper auditory cues. Consequently, users of the Yunhai can expect a softer impact and a more subdued sound when both pressing and releasing keys.

Ultimately, the differences in housing materials lead to distinct sound profiles in the TTC Ice and Yunhai switches. While the Ice provides a clear and resonant typing experience due to its polycarbonate construction, the Yunhai offers a fuller and rounder sound thanks to its nylon makeup. However, if both switches were constructed using either material, users would achieve similar auditory effects tailored to their preferences—be it sharpness from polycarbonate or a fuller sound from nylon. This illustrates the importance of housing material in the overall typing experience and the nuanced differences that arise from their individual characteristics.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The TTC Ice has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai boasts a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. This distinction in weight can influence user experience: the lighter Yunhai may be preferable for those who wish to type for extended periods with less strain, while the heavier Ice provides a more substantial feel, appealing to those who prefer a firmer push. Overall, if you're seeking a lighter typing experience, the Yunhai is the better choice, whereas the Ice may suit those who desire a more robust tactile feedback.

Travel distance

Both the TTC Ice and the TTC Yunhai linear switches feature the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means that users will experience a similar tactile response when pressing down on the keys. This equal travel distance ensures that the pressing action feels consistent, allowing for comparable performance and feedback during use. Given that both switches have identical travel specifications, users can expect a similar sensation and responsiveness when utilizing either switch in their mechanical keyboards.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The TTC Ice switch is known for its satisfying bottom-out sound, which enhances the overall typing experience by providing auditory feedback that complements its smooth action. While the specific sound characteristics aren’t fully specified, the Ice's crystal-clear design likely contributes to a more pronounced sound profile that many users find appealing, particularly in a mechanical keyboard context. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai switch features a deeper, rounded sound profile that creates a unique acoustic experience. This deeper sound may add a level of richness to each keystroke, appealing to users who appreciate a fuller auditory representation of their typing. However, it’s important to remember that the actual sound will also depend on variables like the keyboard's design and the type of keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the TTC Ice switch offers a smooth and responsive typing experience that can cater well to both gaming and everyday tasks. This linear nature means there’s no tactile bump, allowing for uninterrupted keystrokes that some users may find conducive for rapid typographical input. The Yunhai switch, in contrast, is distinguished by its incredibly light actuation force, which makes it very effortless to press. This can lead to a less fatiguing experience over long periods of typing, making it an excellent choice for typists who favor a light touch. While both switches provide a linear feel, the noticeable difference in actuation force may guide users toward one or the other depending on their personal preferences.

Considering both the TTC Ice and Yunhai switches, you'll find each offers a distinctive take on the linear switch experience, with the Ice leaning towards a responsive and satisfying auditory impact and the Yunhai promoting a gentle touch with its lighter actuation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound feedback or a lighter typing feel, as both will provide smooth, linear experiences conducive to performance in various tasks.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the TTC Ice linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a medium actuation force along with a more pronounced sound and the aesthetic appeal of a transparent design, the Ice switches may be your best bet. They provide a satisfying bottom-out experience, making them well-suited for both gaming sessions and regular typing tasks where you require a responsive feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a quiet, smooth keystroke, the Yunhai switches would likely be the more appealing option for you. Their effortless actuation and deep, rounded sound profile create a unique typing experience that's especially comfortable for long typing sessions. Therefore, consider whether you prioritize a more tactile and audio-driven experience or a lightweight, subtle touch; either way, both switches deliver quality performance but cater to different user preferences.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Ice Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more

TTC Yunhai Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more