TTC Ice vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Ice and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences. The TTC Ice switches are celebrated for their crystal-clear transparent design that not only enhances aesthetics but also provides a smooth and responsive typing experience complemented by a satisfying bottom-out sound. This makes them an excellent choice for users who appreciate tactile feedback during both gaming and daily tasks. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches stand out with their innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, which deliver exceptional smoothness and stability while significantly reducing typing noise. Ideal for users who seek a quiet and soft typing experience, these switches are perfect for shared environments or late-night gaming sessions. Both switches excel in their respective areas—whether it's the satisfying acoustics of the TTC Ice or the whisper-quiet operation of the Gateron Zero Degree 0°. 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
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Ice switches and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, it becomes evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, leading to a similar aural characteristic. The use of polycarbonate as a material is crucial because it contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the transparency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting effects, making both switches a visually appealing option for gamers and enthusiasts who prioritize aesthetics alongside performance. Thus, when engaging with these switches, users can expect a consistent auditory experience from the top housing, regardless of the overall design variations.
In a contrasting light, the bottom housings reveal a notable difference between the two switches. The TTC Ice utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which keeps the sound profile consistent with the top housing—sharp and resonant. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° opts for nylon in its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound and provides a less resonant experience than polycarbonate. This divergence affects not only the auditory experience but also the tactile feedback felt when pressing the keys. The softer nature of the nylon material means that the Gateron switches will evoke a softer sound upon bottoming out, contrasting with the more pronounced noise produced by the Ice switch.
Ultimately, the combination of materials selected sets these two switches apart in terms of their overall auditory and tactile experiences. While the top housings of both the TTC Ice and Gateron Zero Degree 0° present a similar sound profile due to the shared use of polycarbonate, the differences in the bottom housings create unique bottom-out experiences. Users who value a sharper and clearer sound may prefer the Ice's polycarbonate bottom, while those seeking a fuller, softer sound might be drawn to the Gateron switches. In practice, this means that when typing or gaming, the Ice will produce a consistent sound signature, while the Zero Degree 0° offers a complex interplay of sound characteristics that blend the clarity of the top with the warmth of the bottom.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, their actuation forces are identical at 45 grams, suggesting that users will experience similar keystroke activation for both switches. However, the TTC Ice has a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating that it requires a bit more pressure to fully press the key down compared to the Gateron Zero Degree, which does not have a specified bottom out force. This means that while the actuation feel is the same for both switches, the TTC Ice offers a firmer resistance when reaching the bottom of the stroke. Consequently, the TTC Ice is the heavier option due to its higher bottom out force, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, whereas the Gateron Zero Degree could be considered lighter in this regard, providing a more accommodating touch. Overall, individuals looking for a switch for extensive typing sessions might favor the Gateron for its potential comfort, while those wanting tactile feedback may prefer the clear resistance of the TTC Ice.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is identical, with both measuring 3.6 mm from the top to the bottom of the keypress. This means that users will experience the same actuation feel when pressing down on either switch, resulting in similar tactile feedback and key responsiveness. Since their travel distances are equal, individuals switching between these two options can expect a consistent typing experience without any noticeable differences in the depth of the keypress.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 its satisfying bottom-out sound, which adds a premium auditory experience to both gaming and typing. This switch features a clear design that enhances the overall acoustic profile, allowing for a robust sound upon actuation. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is engineered for silent operation thanks to its self-padding design. This innovative approach significantly reduces noise, making it an excellent choice for environments where sound levels need to be kept to a minimum. While the Ice offers a more traditional switch auditory feedback, the Zero Degree emphasizes sound absorption, providing a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Ice switch is praised for its smooth and responsive action, allowing for a satisfying tactile connection with each keystroke. Its design promotes a fluid typing experience suitable for various applications, from casual typing to intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch takes smoothness to a new level with its dual-rail structure, which ensures enhanced stability and elasticity. This creates a soft, plush feel during use, making it particularly comfortable for prolonged typing sessions, though it lacks the more pronounced tactile feedback of traditional options.
In summary, both the TTC Ice and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Ice offers a more prominent auditory profile and a satisfying typing experience, while the Zero Degree prioritizes silence and smoothness through innovative design. Depending on your needs—whether it’s the rich sound profile of the Ice or the quiet comfort of the Zero Degree—you can find satisfaction in either switch, knowing that both provide high-quality typing experiences with their respective unique traits.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, your choice will largely depend on your priorities in typing experience and sound. If you appreciate a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams and enjoy tactile feedback, the Ice switch will likely appeal to you; it combines a satisfying bottom-out sound with a smooth and responsive feel, making it suitable for both gaming and typing tasks. On the other hand, if you are looking for an ultra-quiet typing experience, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch would be your best bet, thanks to its unique self-padding design that minimizes sound and enhances the softness and elastic nature of each keystroke. Its dual-rail structure promotes stability and a smooth feel that could be particularly beneficial in office environments or shared spaces where noise is a concern. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your preference for sound level and the tactile sensation you seek while typing.
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