TTC Iron vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Iron and the Gateron Mini i offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The TTC Iron linear switch is known for its pronounced clacky sound signature and remarkably light actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts and daily users alike. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility and fairly muted sound profile, making it a great option for office use where quiet professionalism is key. While the Iron offers precision and pleasure in every keystroke, the Mini i prioritizes comfort and subtlety. 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
41g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Iron and the Gateron Mini i, it is clear that both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Iron utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and relatively muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Mini i uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound profile. While both switches prioritize creating a pleasing sound experience, their choice of materials leads to different auditory outcomes.
Despite the differences in housing materials, the POM top housing of the Iron and the nylon top housing of the Mini i both contribute to producing a deeper sound profile. This is due to the inherent qualities of POM and nylon as plastics that absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. However, the Iron's POM bottom housing may have a different impact on the switch's sound and feel compared to the Mini i's nylon bottom housing. The material of the bottom housing can affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing can influence the sound when releasing a key.
Ultimately, the housing materials of the TTC Iron and the Gateron Mini i offer distinct sound experiences to users. While both switches aim to create a pleasing and unique sound, their choice of materials, whether it be POM or nylon, leads to differences in sound profiles. Whether one prefers the relatively more muted sound of POM or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches provide a tactile and auditory experience that caters to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have a relatively light actuation force of 40-41 grams. Additionally, both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of force required for keystrokes. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of the weight and feel of these switches. The light actuation force of these switches makes them ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions, providing a comfortable typing experience. Overall, while the Iron linear switch and Mini i tactile switch have slightly different actuation forces, their bottom out forces are the same, offering users a lightweight typing option for smooth and efficient keystrokes.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it is clear that the Mini i has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Iron's 3.8 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are currently popular, the difference of 0.4 mm may be noticeable to some users. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gateron Mini i for its faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the TTC Iron. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
The Gateron Mini i 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Iron linear switch is well-known for its clacky sound profile, which provides a sharp and snappy auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a more neutral sound, suitable for various environments due to its moderate sound profile. While the Iron may be more pronounced in its clacky sound, the Mini i strikes a balance between feedback and quietness, making it a versatile choice for different users and settings.
In terms of feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is described as easy-to-press and mild, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal finger fatigue. Conversely, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, giving users a spring-like rebound sensation during typing. The Mini i also includes mild and subtle characteristics, ensuring a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches prioritize comfort and responsiveness, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, the TTC Iron linear switch stands out for its clacky sound signature and easy-to-press feel, appealing to users who seek a precise and swift typing experience with satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile and a bouncy, easy-to-press feel, making it ideal for long typing sessions in quiet environments like offices. Both switches provide distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a pleasant typing experience regardless of the choice. Ultimately, users can expect similar levels of satisfaction and comfort from both switches, with the decision coming down to personal sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you value a clacky sound signature with light actuation for a precise and pleasurable typing experience, the TTC Iron switch is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile with gentle tactility and a lightweight feel for comfortable and professional typing sessions, the Gateron Mini i switch would be a suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific qualities that best match your typing style and workspace requirements.
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