TTC Iron vs. Everglide Oreo
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Everglide Oreo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch can offer different typing experiences. The Iron boasts a clacky sound signature and smooth travel for a satisfying typing session, making it ideal for those seeking precision and enjoyment in each keystroke. On the other hand, the Oreo presents a crisp tactile bump at the top with a cushioned bottoming out sensation, striking a balance between a satisfying keystroke and comfortable typing experience. While the Iron is easy-to-press with a neutral feel, the Oreo offers an accented and chirpy 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Iron and the Everglide Oreo, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their respective materials. The Iron's POM top and bottom housing create a deeper and more muted sound, while the Oreo's polycarbonate top and bottom housing produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The difference in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users, as some may prefer a more subdued sound while others may prefer a more vibrant and resonant sound.
Aesthetically, the housing materials of the Iron and Oreo also differ in terms of their appearance. The POM material used in the Iron's housing is not translucent, while the polycarbonate material in the Oreo's housing is clear and allows for RGB lighting to shine through. This can be a significant factor for users who value customizable lighting options in their keyboards. Additionally, the use of different materials in the top and bottom housing of a switch can lead to a split in the qualities each material brings, impacting both the pressing down and letting go of keys differently depending on the switch.
Overall, while the Iron and Oreo offer distinct sound profiles and aesthetic features due to their housing materials, both switches provide a pleasing typing experience in their own right. Whether one prefers the deeper and muted sound of POM or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer quality construction and functionality. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preferences in sound, aesthetics, and typing feel, as each housing material brings its own unique characteristics to the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, it is clear that the Iron is lighter in both aspects. The Iron has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Oreo has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Iron switch provides a lighter typing experience, which may be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Oreo switch offers a slightly heavier feel, suitable for those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide a different level of tactile feedback, with the Iron being lighter and the Oreo offering a medium-light touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for optimal performance.
Travel distance
In comparing the TTC Iron linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, it is evident that the Iron has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Oreo's 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Oreo being slightly longer. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, may prefer the Iron due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press experience may opt for the Oreo with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 offers a distinct clacky sound that provides a satisfying auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch has a more subtle and mellow sound profile, adding a quieter typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users may enjoy the sharpness of the Iron's clacky sound or the softer chirp of the Oreo switches, both offering unique acoustic signatures to enhance the typing experience.
In terms of feel, the TTC Iron linear switch boasts an easy-to-press quality, requiring minimal force to activate keys, providing a light and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch offers an accented tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out, providing a medium tactile feedback that strikes a balance between tactility and comfort. Whether users prefer the easy actuation of the Iron switch or the medium tactile feedback of the Oreo switch, both options cater to different typing preferences based on the desired keypress feel.
In conclusion, the TTC Iron linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to diverse user preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Iron switch provides a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the Oreo switch offers a mellow sound profile and medium tactile feedback. Depending on whether a user values a more pronounced sound or a medium tactile sensation, both switches present compelling options for enhancing the typing experience. Users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, tailored to their specific preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Iron linear switch or the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light and swift typing experience with a pronounced clacky sound, the TTC Iron switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light tactility with a crisp tactile bump and cushioned bottom out, the Everglide Oreo switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so it is important to consider what qualities are most important to you when making your decision.
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