TTC Brother vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch are two standout options in the market. The TTC Brother is praised for its lightweight nature, crisp and crunchy sound signature, and the perfect balance of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offers typists a smooth and creamy feel, coupled with a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets it apart from other linear switches. While the Brother is known for being easy-to-press and stepped, the Vanilla Ice Cream is described as buttery, marbly, and resonant. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
37g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches offer contrasting characteristics that affect the sound profile and overall feel of the switches. The Brother's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which resonates well with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary KTT blend top housing offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, showcasing a unique blend of materials for a distinct sound experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Brother's nylon material creates a deeper and fuller sound profile with a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Brother. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK bottom housing, made of polyketone material, provides a smooth and clacky typing experience. The POK material is exceptionally strong and durable, contributing to a long-lasting switch with smooth actuation and a satisfying sound profile.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the TTC Brother and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches, both switches offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences based on their specific top and bottom housing materials. Whether it's the clear and resonant sound of polycarbonate in the Brother or the smooth and durable POK material in the Vanilla Ice Cream, each switch provides distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound. Ultimately, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the overall performance and user experience of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 43 grams. On the other hand, the Brother switch does not have a specified bottom out force, while the Vanilla Ice Cream switch has a bottom out force of 48 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Brother switch, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be more suitable for those looking for a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that both switches offer the same keypress experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. When comparing and contrasting the travel distance of these switches, they both provide a consistent tactile feedback and actuation point for users. The similarities in their travel distance mean that users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a standard travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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 Brother clicky switch is characterized by a crunchy sound that mimics the satisfying crunch of autumn leaves underfoot. This distinct auditory experience is sure to please fans of clicky switches. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, creating a unique auditory profile that sets it apart from other linear switches. The choice between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the Brother providing a classic clicky sound and the Vanilla Ice Cream offering a more sharp and resonant tone.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is lauded for its easy-to-press nature, offering a gentle resistance that minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The tactile bump in the keystroke provides a satisfying feedback without being too overwhelming. Conversely, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and uniform typing sensation akin to gliding your fingers across keys effortlessly. This luxurious typing experience is achieved through the use of POK material in the stem and bottom housing of the switch, resulting in a uniquely creamy feel.
In conclusion, both the TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offer unique and desirable qualities to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Brother excels in providing a satisfyingly crunchy sound and an easy-to-press tactile experience, while the Vanilla Ice Cream stands out with its high-pitched and buttery feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. However, rest assured that both switches are sure to deliver a premium typing experience that will elevate any keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a crisp and crunchy sound with a tactile bump, the Brother switch is the way to go. Its light actuation force and satisfying click will enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy feel with a high-pitched and clacky sound, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you find most enjoyable - whether it be a light and tactile click or a smooth and creamy keystroke. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on your personal preferences.
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