Kailh Box White vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box White and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream. The Box White is a clicky switch that provides maximum audio feedback, with a tactile and crunchy feel that some liken to stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream is a linear switch that offers a smooth and creamy typing experience, thanks to the use of POK in the stem and bottom housing. While the Box White is categorized as 'Resonant,' 'High-pitched,' and 'Crunchy,' the Vanilla Ice Cream is classified as 'Buttery,' 'Creamy,' and 'High-pitched.' Each switch has its own unique characteristics that may appeal to different typists based on their 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
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches, we see a clear distinction in the top housing material. The Box White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is resonant and clear. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch incorporates a proprietary KTT blend top housing that offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While both materials contribute to a distinctive sound profile, the polycarbonate in the Box White is particularly useful for RGB lighting due to its translucency, offering a unique aesthetic appeal.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the differences between the Kailh Box White and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches are even more pronounced. The Box White features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deep and fuller sound profile that is duller and rounder due to its softer plastic composition. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch uses a POK bottom housing made of polyketone, known for its exceptional strength and durability. The POK material offers a smooth feel and clacky sound, surpassing the wear resistance of Nylon by 14 times and providing superior shock resistance.
Overall, while the Kailh Box White and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches may have similar qualities in their top housing materials, their differences lie in the bottom housing materials. The Box White's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK bottom housing prioritizes durability and smoothness. These distinct housing materials contribute to the overall sound and feel of each switch, providing users with unique typing experiences based on their preferences for sound, feel, and durability.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is clear that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The Box White switch has a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Vanilla Ice Cream switch has a light actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be preferred by those who like a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, while the Box White switch may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier feel. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on individual preferences, with the lighter force of the Vanilla Ice Cream switch providing a smoother typing experience, while the heavier force of the Box White switch may offer more tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those seeking quick response times, such as gamers. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to some users, as both switches offer a similar experience in terms of key feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly longer or shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box White clicky switch offers a resonant and high-pitched typing experience, akin to crushing autumn leaves underfoot. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch provides a distinct high-pitched and clacky sound, reminiscent of tapping on marble or the collision of billiard balls. Both switches deliver unique auditory profiles, with the Box White offering a cleaner and sharper sound, while the Vanilla Ice Cream presents a more resonant and marbly tone. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference, as sound is also influenced by the keyboard setup as a whole.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and seamless key travel. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is characterized as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation akin to gliding across the keys with ease. The use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream switch contributes to its uniquely creamy feel, enhancing the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a polished feel with reduced friction or a buttery, creamy sensation, each switch offers a different tactile experience for typists to enjoy.
Overall, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch each bring their own set of unique qualities to the table. The Box White excels in providing a crisp and sharp sound with accented tactility, while the Vanilla Ice Cream stands out for its smooth and creamy feel combined with a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference regarding sound and feel, as both offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Whether you opt for the resonant crunch of the Box White or the buttery smoothness of the Vanilla Ice Cream, you are sure to enjoy a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider the characteristics of each switch carefully. If you prioritize maximum audio feedback and enjoy a crunchy, high-pitched sound profile, the Box White may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy typing experience with a lighter bottom out force, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for sound and feel when typing. Make sure to test out both switches if possible to determine which one suits your typing style best.
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