Huano Elf vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing experience, and two standout options are the Huano Elf and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, both of which are linear switches. The Huano Elf is celebrated for its unique POK top housing that enhances acoustics, resulting in a rich, deep sound signature paired with a medium-light feel—perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying, yet not overly taxing typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is designed to deliver a remarkably smooth and creamy sensation, thanks to its POK material utilized in both the stem and bottom housing. This switch offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets it apart, making it an enticing option for typists seeking a lively auditory feedback experience. While both switches have their fans for different reasons, choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in acoustics and tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Elf Linear

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches, we see both convergence and divergence in their compositions that impact performance and auditory characteristics. The Huano Elf features a top housing made of polyketone (POK), which is engineered for smoothness and durability. With a low coefficient of friction and wear resistance significantly superior to many common materials, POK enhances the clacky sound profile and durability of the switches. This material is complemented by a nylon bottom housing that offers a deeper sound profile due to its softer nature, allowing for sound absorption that results in a fuller feel. In contrast, KTT Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a proprietary blend that incorporates POK in its bottom housing, allowing it to inherit POK's smooth and resilient properties. However, without specific details on the top housing materials, we can conclude that while both may highlight the clackiness in switch behavior, the actual auditory experience during key operations will vary.

The key difference lies in the type of materials used for the top housing of both switches. The Huano Elf's top housing, crafted from POK, lends itself to an overarching smoothness in operation, bolstered by its durability and resistance to shock, which enhances the overall performance of the switch. In stark contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream's top housing material is defined as a "special mixed material,” which fuses multiple properties but lacks the detailed performance metrics provided for the Huano Elf. Consequently, this ambiguity leads to uncertainty as to whether the sound signature of the Vanilla Ice Cream achieves the low-friction benefits seen with POK, potentially yielding a different tactile response than that of the Elf.

Ultimately, when it comes to the bottom housings, both the Huano Elf and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream utilize POK in the Vanilla Ice Cream model, assuring a smooth operation that follows similar tactile benchmarks. This suggests that both switches will contribute to an enjoyable typing experience, characterized by the balance of sound and feel. The differences in the top housing materials will crucially affect the final sound profile with respect to the key release, but both switches will excel in clackiness due to their design choices. Overall, the nuanced impact of the varying top housing materials alongside a shared bottom housing creates distinct experiences tied to the specific choice of switch, illustrating how housing material significantly influences both auditory and performance outcomes.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Huano Elf linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, we can note several differences. The Huano Elf has an actuation force of 42 grams, making it slightly lighter than the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. This subtle difference may appeal to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially during long typing sessions or gaming. However, the Elf lacks a specified bottom out force, unlike the Vanilla Ice Cream, which has a defined bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that while the Elf may feel lighter when pressed, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream provides a more definite and tangible feedback when bottoming out, which some users seek for a more substantial typing experience. In conclusion, if you prioritize a lighter switch, the Huano Elf may be more suited for you, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offers a heavier, more defined feel at the bottom of the keystroke.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, the Elf features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the Vanilla Ice Cream has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within the modern trend of shorter travel distances, the Elf's additional millimeter may provide a bit more depth for those who enjoy a more profound tactile experience. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a more responsive feel due to its slightly shorter distance, appealing to gamers who favor quick actuation and rapid keypress recognition. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference regarding the balance of responsiveness and tactile depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Huano Elf linear switch delivers a deep sound signature that can be quite satisfying for users who prefer a rich and bassy auditory experience. This heavy depth contrasts sharply with the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch, which is known for its high-pitched, clacky sound profile. The Vanilla Ice Cream switches produce a more resonant and clean sound, creating an auditory experience that is sharp and crisp. For those who enjoy a lighter, sharper sound when typing, the Vanilla Ice Cream would likely be more appealing, while the Elf may resonate better with individuals who appreciate a fuller, deeper sound.

When it comes to feel, the Elf offers a medium-light keystroke experience, making it a good choice for typists who want a balance between resistance and ease of use. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is celebrated for its buttery and creamy feel, providing a smooth and silky typing experience. This switch's craftsmanship contributes to a seamless keystroke that makes typing feel fluid and effortless. The Elf's medium-light feel might cause a more varied typing force depending on user preferences, while the Vanilla Ice Cream seeks to deliver a consistently pleasant sensation throughout.

Both switches present unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. The Huano Elf excels in producing a satisfying deep sound with a balanced keystroke, which is perfect for a tactile experience that many typists might enjoy. Meanwhile, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream stands out with its high-pitched auditory character and its creamy, buttery keystroke feel, catering to those who prioritize a smooth and sharper typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between them should reflect your personal preference for sound and feel, as both will deliver high-quality performance in their respective domains.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Huano Elf linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch depends largely on your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you favor a deeper sound signature and a medium-light typing experience, the Huano Elf is your go-to option, especially if you're someone who enjoys a warmer acoustics profile in your typing environment. This switch caters well to those accustomed to a more traditional typing experience while delivering satisfying keypress feedback. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a switch that offers a smooth, creamy feel and a high-pitched, resonant sound, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream is the ideal choice. Its unique material composition provides a buttery and seamless keystroke experience, making it particularly appealing for those who desire a more vibrant and lively auditory environment while typing. In summary, your decision will hinge on whether you prioritize acoustics and feel that lean toward a deeper sound or a high-pitched, light experience. Choose based on what enhances your productivity and enjoyment as you navigate your mechanical keyboard journey.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Elf Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn more