TTC Iron vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of various options. The TTC Iron, a linear switch, stands out thanks to its pronounced clacky sound signature, delivering an auditory delight with each keystroke. Renowned for being light and easy to press, the Iron is designed for swift typing, minimizing fatigue during prolonged use, while its butter-smooth travel enhances the overall typing experience. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange switches are a revival of the original MX Orange switches, enhanced with modern MX2A generation features to meet today’s demands. Though exact categorization details for the MX Orange were not specified, the Cherry brand is synonymous with durability and consistency, making it a reliable choice for users seeking tried-and-true performance. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences; the TTC Iron appeals to those who enjoy an engaging tactile feedback with a clacky sound, while the Cherry MX Orange offers a classic, dependable typing experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Iron and Cherry MX Orange switches, we observe two distinct materials: POM (Polyoxymethylene) for the Iron and nylon for the MX Orange. Both have their own unique acoustic qualities, though they share a few similarities in sound output. The POM top housing of the Iron is designed to create a pleasing and unique sound profile, emphasizing a deeper and more muted tone. Similarly, the nylon top housing of the MX Orange also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, largely due to its softer nature, which absorbs sound better than harder plastics. Despite the different materials, both switches achieve a sound quality that leans towards a more subdued profile, suggesting that users seeking a quieter typing experience would find satisfaction in either option.
Examining the bottom housings, the TTC Iron features a POM base that, like its top counterpart, fosters a similar deeper and more muted sound. The Cherry MX Orange, with its nylon bottom housing, similarly provides a deep and full sound profile. This continuity between the top and bottom housings, although constructed from different materials, suggests that they have been engineered to contribute complementary qualities to the overall auditory experience. Notably, the material differences might yield distinct tactile sensations during typing, but they both result in a cohesive sound when bottoming out the switches, making the choice ultimately dependent on personal preference for the feel of the materials used.
Overall, while the TTC Iron and Cherry MX Orange switches employ different materials—POM versus nylon—their designs successfully create comparable auditory experiences characterized by deeper and more muted sound profiles. Each housing type imparts specific qualities to the switch; the POM in the Iron prioritizes a particular sound signature, while nylon in the MX Orange focuses on sound absorption. Ultimately, users can achieve similar results in terms of sound quality, whether opting for the TTC Iron or the Cherry MX Orange, though the tactile feedback and perceived typing experience might vary based on the distinct feel of each material. The choice between the two may come down to personal tactile preference and brand loyalty, rather than significant sound differences in practice.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom-out forces of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, notable differences emerge. The TTC Iron features a lighter actuation force of 41 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to those who favor a more substantial feel when typing. However, while the Iron's bottom-out force is recorded at 50 grams, the bottom-out force for the MX Orange remains unknown. This means that the Cherry MX Orange might offer an even heftier resistance when pressed all the way down, potentially providing a firmer tactile experience. Overall, for users seeking a lighter switch, the TTC Iron is the better choice, while those who appreciate a stronger push may find the Cherry MX Orange more to their liking.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Cherry MX Orange linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the TTC Iron the shorter option, offering a more responsive experience due to its reduced distance. Gamers may find this shorter travel beneficial for faster response times, aligning with the current trend favoring quicker actuation. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange provides a more traditional travel distance which some users may appreciate for its deeper feel, creating a less abrupt keypress experience. Ultimately, while both switches serve linear functions, their travel distances contribute to differing tactile experiences, with the TTC Iron leaning towards responsiveness and the Cherry MX Orange offering a more substantial actuation depth.
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 Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 stands out with its pronounced clacky sound signature, offering a sharp and snappy auditory feedback that adds an enjoyable dimension to the typing experience. This crisp and bright percussive nature enhances the overall satisfaction of each keystroke, making it appealing to users who appreciate a more resonant and engaging sound profile. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch does not have specific sound characteristics detailed, but it is known for its balanced profile that typically leans towards neutrality. As such, it may not provide the same level of aural excitement as the Iron switch but can offer a suitable and moderate sound experience for a variety of environments.
In terms of feel, the TTC Iron switch is designed for effortless engagement, boasting an easy-to-press mechanism that requires minimal force to activate. This makes it highly suitable for extended typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue and enhancing overall typing comfort. The Iron switch's mild resistance and buttery smooth travel elevate the typing experience by providing a responsive yet gentle touch. The Cherry MX Orange switch does not have detailed feel characteristics associated with it; however, it is historically recognized for maintaining a comfortable typing experience comparable to the middle-ground zone of other linear switches. This could suggest that both switches promise a comfortable typing feel, albeit the Iron's specific attributes might offer a more distinguished experience.
In conclusion, while the TTC Iron linear switch excels in delivering a distinctive clacky sound and an effortlessly engaging typing feel, the Cherry MX Orange switch offers a more neutral sound profile paired with potentially similar comfort. Enthusiasts can expect an enjoyable typing experience from both switches, although those seeking a more pronounced auditory notification may lean towards the Iron. Overall, both can serve to meet varying user preferences, but the TTC Iron clearly stands out with its unique auditory feedback and responsive design.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences in tactile feedback and sound. If you enjoy a lighter switch that offers a pronounced clacky sound and buttery smooth travel, the TTC Iron is an excellent choice. Its easy-to-press nature allows for swift, fatigue-free typing, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming where precision is key. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a switch that strikes a balance between performance and a more neutral sound profile, the Cherry MX Orange may be more suitable. The Original MX Orange has a legacy of reliability that appeals to users looking for a well-rounded experience, whether for typing, casual gaming, or office use. Ultimately, consider your typing style and the environments in which you’ll be using the keyboard to choose the switch that aligns best with your needs.
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