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TTC Bluish White vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream

An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Bluish White and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offer distinct typing experiences. The Bluish White switch is a tactile option that provides a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is a linear option known for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the ingenious use of POK in both the stem and bottom housing. While the Bluish White switch is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', and 'Low-pitched', the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is described as 'Buttery', 'Creamy', and 'High-pitched'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. 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

42g

Actuation force

43g

Bottom-out force

50g

Bottom-out force

48g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

1.90 mm

Total travel

3.50 mm

Total travel

3.50 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Partial box

Stem construction

Standard

Stem material

POM

Stem material

POK

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Top housing material

Proprietary KTT blend

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

POK

Mount type

Plate (3-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

Stainless steel 18mm spring

Housing materials

The housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The use of polycarbonate in the Bluish White's top housing creates a sharper and clearer sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a high-pitched and crisp typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary housing blend delivers a clacky sound signature, which may appeal to users seeking a more distinctive and tactile typing feel. While both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience, the choice between polycarbonate and the KTT blend will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound and feel.

When it comes to the bottom housings of the two switches, the differences are even more pronounced. The nylon bottom housing of the Bluish White offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, catering to users who prefer a softer and more muted typing sound. On the other hand, the POK bottom housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream provides a smooth and durable typing experience, with exceptional wear resistance and shock resistance. These contrasting qualities highlight the importance of bottom housing materials in influencing the overall sound and feel of a switch, showcasing how different materials can significantly impact the user's typing experience.

In comparing the housing materials of the two switches, it's clear that each offers its own unique blend of characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Bluish White's polycarbonate top housing may provide a sharper and crisper sound profile, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary blend offers a high-pitched and clacky typing experience. Similarly, the differences in bottom housing materials further highlight how the choice of material can impact the overall typing feel, with the Nylon bottom housing of the Bluish White offering a deeper sound profile compared to the smooth and durable POK bottom housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream. Ultimately, users can choose between these switches based on their individual preferences for sound, feel, and durability.

Weight

The actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch both fall on the lighter end of the spectrum. The Bluish White has a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's 43 grams, while the bottom out force of the Bluish White is 50 grams, slightly heavier than the Vanilla Ice Cream's 48 grams. Both switches provide a light and comfortable typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing sessions. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, either switch would provide similar results. However, for users who prefer a slightly heavier push feel, the Vanilla Ice Cream may be the preferred choice due to its slightly higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.

Travel distance

Both the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distance, both switches offer a consistent typing experience with the same amount of key travel from top to bottom. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and actuation depth when using either switch. The equal travel distance of both switches ensures that typing on either one will provide a satisfying and consistent tactile feedback for users.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.

The KTT Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.

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 Bluish White tactile switch offers a low-pitched tone that provides a more bass-heavy and mellow sound during typing. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch produces a high-pitched and clacky sound that is sharp and crisp when pressed. The Vanilla Ice Cream switch also has a marbly and resonant sound profile, giving it a unique auditory experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, both the Bluish White and Vanilla Ice Cream switches offer a buttery typing experience, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. The Bluish White switch is described as mild, stepped, subtle, and polished, providing a gentle resistance and a refined finish for a sleek typing feel. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is also described as creamy, offering a silky sensation similar to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. This smooth and buttery typing experience is achieved through factory lubrication or specific materials used in the switch.

Overall, while the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offer different sound profiles with one being low-pitched and the other high-pitched, they both provide a buttery and smooth typing experience. Whether you prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow sound or a sharp and clacky sound, both switches offer a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for newcomers looking to explore the world of mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you desire a satisfyingly poppy and snappy typing experience with a light bottom out force, the Bluish White tactile switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a remarkably smooth and creamy feel with a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, along with a slightly lighter bottom out force, then the Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches have their unique feel and sound characteristics, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.

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