TTC Iron vs. Akko Rosewood
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Akko Rosewood switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Iron and the Akko Rosewood both cater to fans of linear switches but with distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The TTC Iron stands out with its clacky sound signature, which not only adds an engaging auditory element to each keystroke but also ensures an effortlessly light actuation, perfect for users looking for a swift typing experience without fatigue. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a satisfying sound while enjoying buttery smooth travel, making it a great option for both gamers and typists alike. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood offers a deeper, thocky sound profile, enriched by a factory-applied lubricant that enhances the overall smoothness and feel. This switch is perfect for users who prefer a more substantial auditory feedback and a robust feel beneath their fingers. Both switches have their unique appeals, allowing users to prioritize either sound or feel based on personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right 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
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
Nylon
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Iron and Akko Rosewood switches, it's clear that both switch types incorporate materials that contribute to producing a rich auditory experience, albeit through different blends of properties. The TTC Iron uses POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings. This material is known for creating a unique and pleasing sound profile that leans towards a deeper and more muted tone. Conversely, the Akko Rosewood features nylon for both top and bottom housings, which is traditionally regarded as a classic choice. Nylon is characterized by its softer nature, which allows it to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a fuller and rounder acoustic profile. While both switches utilize materials that enhance sound quality, the specific qualities imparted by POM and nylon lead to distinct auditory experiences.
When considering the sound profile during key presses, the bottom housing plays a significant role, leading to notable differences between the two switch types. In both the TTC Iron and the Akko Rosewood, the bottom housing brings out the qualities of the respective materials more distinctly during the bottom-out phase. The POM bottom housing of the Iron, much like the nylon bottom housing of the Rosewood, helps enhance the deeper sound characteristics when the key is fully pressed down. However, the inherent muting effects of POM may create a more subdued bottom-out sound, while the Rosewood's nylon allows for a more rounded and fuller sound, due to its superior sound absorption properties.
Furthermore, the top housing significantly impacts the sound profile when releasing the key. Here, the TTC Iron's POM top housing is designed to complement the muted characteristics of the bottom, whereas the Akko Rosewood's nylon top housing contributes to the key's projected sound on release, enriching the overall sound profile. The Rosewood is likely to provide a more pronounced auditory exit as compared to the more subdued sound emitted by the Iron when the key is released. Despite their distinct materials, the similarities in how the housing designs function offer a pathway to achieving comparable sound results between the two switches; emphasizing depth and fullness, albeit through different material interactions. Thus, while they stem from varied material sources, both switches attempt to fulfill a similar auditory experience through their housing characteristics.
Weight
The TTC Iron linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch exhibit similar characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, though there are slight differences worth noting. The Iron switch has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Rosewood switch has a marginally lighter actuation force of 40 grams, also bottoming out at 50 grams. This means that both switches require a light touch for actuation, catering well to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience. However, the Rosewood switch is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, which might be more appealing for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. In contrast, the TTC Iron switch, with its slightly heavier actuation force, may provide a more substantial typing feel for users who enjoy a stronger push. Ultimately, both options have the same bottom out force, ensuring a consistent feel when hitting the keys all the way down.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, we find a noticeable difference. The TTC Iron has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Akko Rosewood measures 4 mm. This positions the Iron as the shorter travel option, appealing to those who prioritize quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Rosewood, with its longer travel distance, might satisfy users who prefer a more substantial tactile experience, offering a sense of depth that some find comforting. As such, if you seek responsiveness, the TTC Iron may be the better choice, while the Akko Rosewood caters to those who enjoy a fuller keypress sensation.
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 Akko Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
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 known for its pronounced clacky signature, which adds a crisp, snappy quality to each keystroke. This sound is characterized by brightness and percussiveness, providing an auditory engagement that many typists find satisfying. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood switch produces a deep, thocky sound, also enhanced by a factory-applied lubricant that contributes to its unique auditory profile. The Rosewood's sound is generally described as richer and more resonant, giving it a distinct personality compared to the sharper clacks of the Iron. While their sound profiles differ significantly, both can be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycap materials.
In terms of feel, the TTC Iron offers an easy-to-press experience with a light actuation force that promotes effortless typing. This lightweight design ensures minimal resistance, allowing for comfortable and extended typing sessions without triggering finger fatigue. The feel is described as mild, sitting comfortably in a sweet spot that caters to both newcomers and seasoned typists alike. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Akko Rosewood switches is currently unknown. This makes it difficult to directly compare how these two switches may differ in tactile experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Iron linear switch stands out with its engaging sound and exceptionally light touch, making it an ideal choice for users prioritizing both audio satisfaction and comfort during typing. The Akko Rosewood, with its deeper thocky sound, appeals to those who favor a richer auditory experience, though its tactile characteristics remain unclear. While both switches cater to different auditory preferences, the Iron’s lightweight feel promises a fatigue-free typing experience. If you're torn between the two, consider your preferred sound profile and ergonomic requirements, as they offer distinct yet appealing qualities in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing environment. If you enjoy a more audibly expressive typing experience, the TTC Iron with its clacky sound profile may be ideal for you. Its light actuation force of 50 grams and buttery smooth travel make it an enticing option for extended typing sessions, as it encourages quick and fatigue-free keystrokes. This switch is well-suited for those who appreciate an engaging auditory feedback while working or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued experience with a distinctive deep "thocky" sound, the Akko Rosewood would be your go-to choice. Its factory-applied lubricant enhances the overall smoothness, providing a pleasant tactile sensation with each keystroke while producing less noise than the Iron. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize sound engagement or a deeper, more muted acoustic signature, along with your specific typing style and environment.
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