Bsun Jade Rosales vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Bsun Jade Rosales and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular linear options stand out: the Bsun Jade Rosales and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream. The Jade Rosales switches, crafted by XY Studio, are celebrated for their meticulously refined components, which include custom housings and stems that have undergone advanced lubrication techniques. This attention to detail results in an exceptionally smooth typing experience, perfect for gamers and typists seeking a reliable and fluid keystroke. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches take a different approach with their innovative use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing, providing a unique, creamy typing sensation that feels indulgent and delightful. Additionally, these switches are known for their high-pitched and clacky sound signature, adding an element of auditory enjoyment that many typists cherish. Ultimately, while both switches offer a satisfying linear experience, their distinct characteristics 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Custom Milky Material
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Jade Rosales and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, notable similarities and differences emerge that significantly influence their sound profiles. The top housing of the Jade Rosales is made of polycarbonate, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound and a clear resonance. This is due to its stiffer structure, allowing for a bright and crisp auditory experience, particularly enhanced when utilizing RGB lighting due to its translucency. Conversely, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a proprietary blend of mixed materials in its top housing, which boasts a high-pitched, clacky sound signature. While the specific materials may differ, both switches aim for a prominent sound experience, demonstrating that a thoughtfully designed housing—whether polycarbonate or KTT's blend—can lead to similarly vibrant acoustic results.
The bottom housings of both switches present a contrasting yet fascinating dichotomy. The Jade Rosales employs a Custom Milky Material, described as a proprietary BSUN blend, which enhances the overall feel and impact of the switch, though details on its specific characteristics remain less defined than those of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream's POK bottom housing. The POK material excels in smoothness and durability, significantly outperforming other popular materials in resistance to wear and shock, making it a strong option in the switch market. While the Jade Rosales focuses more on uniqueness with its custom blend, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream ensures a consistent and high-performing experience with its proven POK material, resulting in a switch that combines durability with a notable clacky sound.
Ultimately, the interaction of housing materials in these switches contributes to a layered performance. The Jade Rosales's polycarbonate top housing collaborates with its milky bottom to produce a unique auditory and tactile experience, driven by the qualities of both materials. Meanwhile, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream integrates its proprietary top blend with the advanced POK bottom housing to deliver a reliably smooth and entertaining experience. While their materials are distinct, the difference in sound tuning and feel highlights the importance of the interplay between the housing materials within each switch, ensuring that both the top and bottom components contribute significantly to the overall performance, regardless of their specific compositions.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Jade Rosales and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Jade Rosales has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it the lighter option overall. This difference in weight can significantly affect user experience; those who prefer a lighter switch may find the Vanilla Ice Cream more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while users seeking a more substantial feel might lean towards the Jade Rosales. Consequently, while both switches provide a distinct typing experience, the Jade Rosales is the heavier choice, providing a firmer tactile response compared to the lighter and more delicate touch of the Vanilla Ice Cream.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this regard. Given this identical travel distance, users can expect a similar feel and response when pressing down on keys equipped with these switches. Since both switches share the same travel distance, they are likely to deliver comparable typing experiences, allowing users to enjoy the same level of key actuation and tactile response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Jade Rosales has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jade Rosales for $5.39.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch's acoustic profile is currently unknown. However, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a distinct auditory experience characterized by its high-pitched, marbly, and resonant qualities. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and crisp sound, reminiscent of the colliding of billiard balls or the tapping of marble, making them a great choice for users who prefer a cleaner and brighter auditory feedback without the richness of lower-pitched switches.
When it comes to feel, the Jade Rosales switch has yet to be detailed, leaving its tactile qualities a mystery. Conversely, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is noted for its buttery and creamy feel, providing typists with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This silky sensation is attributed to the POK material used in its construction, which allows fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys, amplifying the seamless and enjoyable typing experience.
Overall, while the Bsun Jade Rosales has the potential for an incredibly smooth typing experience thanks to its meticulous design, specific details regarding its sound and feel remain unrecorded. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out with its clearly defined high-pitched sound and smooth, creamy keystroke. For newcomers to mechanical keyboards, both options may cater to those seeking a linear switch, but the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a well-rounded sensory experience, particularly for those who prioritize sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Jade Rosales and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches largely depends on your personal typing preferences and what you're looking to achieve in your keyboard experience. If you favor a typing experience that is smooth and slightly weighty, the Jade Rosales switch, with its medium-light 53 grams bottom-out force, may be your best bet. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a refined key feel, thanks to the meticulous craftsmanship involved in its design. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch for quicker keystrokes and a playful auditory experience, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch—with a light 48 grams bottom-out force—delivers an unmistakably creamy feel and a high-pitched, clacky sound that can add a delightful character to your typing. Each has its strengths; choose the Jade Rosales for a more solid, smooth engagement or the Vanilla Ice Cream for a fun, effortless typing journey. Your choice ultimately revolves around whether you prioritize a refined, smooth experience or a light, auditory playful one.
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