TTC Iron vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Iron linear switch with the Durock Piano linear switch, it becomes clear that each offers unique qualities for different typing preferences. The TTC Iron is lauded for its distinct clacky sound signature and light actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience with swift and fatigue-free keystrokes. On the other hand, the Durock Piano stands out for its smooth and frictionless feel, paired with a deep and creamy sound signature for a pleasant typing sensation. While the TTC Iron is categorized as easy-to-press and mild, the Durock Piano is known for being bassy and silky. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer a clacky and easy-to-press experience or a smooth and frictionless one. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Iron and Durock Piano switches share a similarity in that they both utilize POM in their construction. POM housings are known to create a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deep and relatively muted. However, the specific blend of POM used in the Piano switch is proprietary and offers a uniquely satisfying sound profile. This difference in blend could potentially result in a slightly different sound experience between the two switches.
In terms of the top housing, both the Iron and Piano switches feature a POM top housing. The POM top housing on the Iron is described as creating a deep and pleasing sound profile, while the proprietary POM blend top housing on the Piano is said to offer a satisfying and deep sound experience. This indicates that both switches prioritize sound quality in their design, with the difference lying in the exact blend of materials used in the Piano switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the POM bottom housing in the Iron switch is also known for its pleasing and unique sound profile. Similarly, the proprietary POM blend bottom housing in the Piano switch is designed to offer a satisfying and deep sound experience. Both switches emphasize the importance of the bottom housing in creating the overall sound profile, showcasing a shared focus on sound quality and performance in their design.
Weight
The TTC Iron linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Durock Piano linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force for the Iron is 50 grams, still lighter than the Piano's 63.5 grams. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces. While the Iron switch may provide a smoother and lighter typing experience, the Piano switch offers a more substantial and heavier feel when pushing down on the keys. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Iron for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Piano for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Durock Piano linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In comparing the two, the Iron has a slightly shorter travel distance than the Piano. Generally, a shorter travel distance is favored by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for some users. Both switches fall within the range of what is considered a standard travel distance, with the Iron being slightly shorter than the Piano. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel 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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Iron linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy noise with each key press. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch offers a bassy sound signature, which delivers a deeper and richer tone during typing. Both switches provide distinct auditory feedback, with the Iron being more pronounced and bright, while the Piano produces a deeper and more luxurious sound experience. Depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard, users can choose between the sharpness of the Iron or the richness of the Piano.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Iron switch is lauded for its easy-to-press actuation, requiring minimal force for key activation. This light actuation force allows for swift and comfortable typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue over time. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switch offers a frictionless and silky typing experience, characterized by an exceptionally smooth travel and minimal resistance while pressing the keys. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, with the Iron providing a gentle and responsive feel and the Piano offering a luxurious and effortless typing sensation.
In conclusion, the TTC Iron linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iron excels in providing a clacky and easy-to-press typing experience, while the Piano stands out for its bassy sound profile and frictionless, silky feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Iron focusing on sharp and bright feedback, and the Piano emphasizing a deep and smooth typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the distinctive characteristics of the Iron and the Piano to enhance their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, consider your preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky sound profile and an easy-to-press typing experience, the TTC Iron may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bassy sound and a frictionless, silky typing feel, the Durock Piano could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to prioritize what matters most to you when making your decision. Happy typing!
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