TTC Iron vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to personal preference and desired typing experiences. The TTC Iron, a linear switch, stands out with its unique pronounced clacky sound signature, providing an engaging auditory feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. Its remarkably light actuation allows for quick keystrokes, making it an excellent option for gamers and typists who prefer swift, fatigue-free sessions. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switch is designed for those who value an ultra-light touch and medium acoustics, catering particularly well to users who engage in prolonged typing tasks. While both switches offer smooth linear action, the TTC Iron emphasizes sound and tactile enjoyment, whereas the Sakura focuses on an effortless typing feel. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Iron and the Huano Sakura switches, notable differences emerge between the POM (Polyoxymethylene) used in the Iron and the POK (Polyketone) utilized in the Sakura for the top housing. The POM top housing of the Iron is celebrated for creating a more muted, deeper sound profile, giving it a pleasing auditory signature. In contrast, the Sakura's POK material provides a smoother tactile experience due to a lower coefficient of friction and contributes to a sound profile that is not only characteristically clacky but also enhanced in durability. POK's wear resistance is significantly higher than that of POM, which indicates that the Sakura may offer more consistency in performance over time, particularly in high-use scenarios.
The bottom housings further differentiate these two switches, as the Iron employs POM while the Sakura utilizes nylon. The POM bottom housing similarly evokes a deeper sound profile, while nylon is known for producing a fuller and rounder typing experience due to its softer qualities that absorb sound. The acoustic characteristics of nylon tend to yield a more muted and duller sound compared to the harder POM. Consequently, when pressed, the Iron's POM bottom may resonate differently than the Sakura’s nylon, showcasing the importance of material composition in overall auditory experiences and tactile feedback during use.
Despite these differences, if the top and bottom housings vary, switches can still deliver similar results in terms of sound and feel due to their design integration. The composite effects of a muted POM top with a nylon bottom in the Iron may yield a rounded sound similar to how the POK top and nylon bottom of the Sakura blend to create a cohesive auditory experience. Thus, while the individual contributions of materials are influential, the interplay between the top and bottom housing designs allows for a spectrum of tactile and acoustic similarities that can appeal to users' preferences for typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Iron linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, both options exhibit relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Iron switch has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sakura switch features an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Sakura switch is the lighter option, requiring less force for both actuation and bottoming out compared to the TTC Iron. For users who favor a more substantial typing experience, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Iron switch may provide that desired push feel. Nonetheless, both switches offer similar performance characteristics, allowing for fatigue-free typing during extended use. Overall, if a lighter touch is preferred, the Huano Sakura would be the ideal choice, while those desiring a bit more resistance might lean towards the TTC Iron.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, the TTC Iron measures 3.8 mm, while the Huano Sakura has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm makes the Iron the longer travel option, ideal for users who appreciate a deeper keystroke that can provide a more substantial feel during typing or gaming. Conversely, the Sakura's shorter distance caters to those who prefer quicker response times, making it a popular choice among gamers who favor rapid key activation. Overall, users looking for more responsiveness in their switches should opt for the Sakura, while those who value a more pronounced key travel might find the Iron to be more satisfying.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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
The sound profile of the TTC Iron linear switch is characterized by a prominent clacky acoustic signature, delivering a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. This bright and percussive resonance adds an aural dimension that many users find satisfying, especially those who appreciate a more expressive typing experience. In contrast, the Huano Sakura linear switch features medium acoustics, which likely produces a softer sound that is less pronounced than the Iron. While the Sakura may lend itself to quieter typing, the choice of keyboard construction and keycaps can also influence the overall sound output, making the environment in which they’re used an essential factor.
When it comes to the feel of these two switches, the TTC Iron linear switch is designed to be easy to press, requiring minimal actuation force which contributes to a swift and effortless typing experience. Users will likely find the buttery smooth travel reassuring, reducing fatigue during longer typing sessions. The feel is further described as mild, placing it in a comfortable middle ground that caters to a broad range of typists. In contrast, the tactile response and feel specifics of the Huano Sakura switch are undetermined; however, given its feather-light touch, it can be anticipated to offer a similarly comfortable typing experience that makes it favorable for extended usage.
Overall, the TTC Iron linear switch stands out for its pronounced sound and light, smooth actuation, making it a favorite for those who seek auditory feedback alongside tactile comfort. The Huano Sakura, while potentially quieter with medium acoustics and a feather-light feel, shares the promise of an enjoyable typing experience. For users choosing between these switches, if the sound and feel align with their preferences, they can expect satisfying results from either option, influenced by personal typing style and keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you seek a switch that delivers an engaging auditory experience along with a smooth and effortlessly light feel, the TTC Iron is your best bet. Its pronounced clacky sound adds a layer of satisfaction to every keystroke, making it an excellent option for those who appreciate acoustic feedback, whether for gaming or daily typing tasks. On the other hand, if your primary concern is comfort during extended typing sessions, and you prefer a switch that is even lighter with a more subdued sound, the Huano Sakura offers a feather-light touch and a medium acoustic profile. This makes it suitable for long hours of work or study without causing finger fatigue. In essence, choose the TTC Iron for a blend of tactile enjoyment and lightness, while opting for the Huano Sakura if you prioritize comfort and a quieter operation during your typing endeavors.
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