HMX Jelly vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the HMX Jelly and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, both of which are linear switches that offer distinct characteristics. The Jelly switch is celebrated for its low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature, delivering a satisfying auditory experience while typing. Its lightweight design, with a 42g actuation force and renowned factory lubrication, contributes to an exceptionally smooth keystroke, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a muted yet pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch captivates with its unique use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing, producing a remarkably smooth and creamy typing feel that echoes its namesake. With a higher-pitched, clacky sound signature, the Vanilla Ice Cream offers an audible feedback that can be more engaging for users who enjoy a lively typing experience. While both switches have their appealing attributes—smoothness and sound profile—their differing characteristics cater to distinct preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Jelly Linear

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Jelly and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches, one notable distinction lies in the composition of their top housings. The Jelly utilizes nylon, a material celebrated for its softer consistency and sound absorption properties, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream employs a proprietary KTT blend, cleverly designed to produce a higher-pitched and clacky sound signature. The difference in sound characteristics reflects the contrasting nature of these materials, with nylon promoting a rounder tone while the KTT blend generates a brighter auditory response.

In terms of bottom housings, the HMX Jelly again favors nylon, which continues to confer its benefits of deep sound and durability to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream features a POK bottom housing, known for its remarkable smoothness and wear resistance, as well as its superior shock resistance compared to nylon. While both switches are equipped with high-quality materials, the Jelly’s consistent use of nylon in both top and bottom creates a cohesive sound profile, while the Vanilla Ice Cream's separation in materials allows for a more dynamic range of auditory feedback — producing a distinctive balance between the deeper tones provided by the bottom housing and the sharper sounds from the top.

Ultimately, the differences in the housing materials of the HMX Jelly and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches yield distinct experiences based on individual preferences. If a user appreciates a more balanced and rounded sound, the Jelly's nylon composition throughout may satisfy that desire. Conversely, those who lean towards a brighter and more clacky sound may find the Vanilla Ice Cream to be superior, thanks to its carefully mixed proprietary top and the advanced POK material in the bottom housing. Regardless of the switch chosen, each will deliver a unique typing experience, demonstrating how the interplay of materials can craft distinct sound profiles and tactile responses.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, both exhibit a light feel but feature slightly different actuation forces. The Jelly switch has an actuation force of 42 grams, while the Vanilla Ice Cream switch requires a marginally heavier actuation force of 43 grams. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 48 grams, which means they have the same firmness when fully pressed down. For users who prefer a lighter touch, the Jelly switch is the better choice, as its actuation force is just a gram lower than that of the Vanilla Ice Cream. However, both switches still provide a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for extended use during typing or gaming sessions. Overall, while there are slight differences in actuation forces, both switches deliver similar tactile feedback at the bottom out stage.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, we find that the Jelly features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Vanilla Ice Cream has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Vanilla Ice Cream the more responsive option, catering to those who prefer quicker actuation, particularly beneficial for gamers seeking fast response times. On the other hand, the Jelly provides a heftier depth, making it potentially more comfortable for users who enjoy a fuller keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Jelly offering a deeper feel and the Vanilla Ice Cream promoting a faster, more abrupt response.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Jelly linear switch delivers a low-pitched, deep, thocky auditory experience that many typists find satisfying. This sound signature envelops users in a rich, bass-heavy tone that contrasts markedly with the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch, which produces a high-pitched, clacky sound. The Vanilla Ice Cream's high-pitched profile strikes a different chord, characterized by its marbly resonance, reminiscent of clean, sharp sounds that many typists may find appealing. This stark difference means that users seeking a muted, deep sound might gravitate toward the Jelly, while those who enjoy a brighter, more resonant auditory response may prefer the Vanilla Ice Cream, making their sound experiences quite distinct.

When evaluating their feel, the Jelly switch is praised for its super smooth keystrokes, largely attributed to excellent factory lubrication and a lightweight actuation force of 42g, which appeals to users who crave an effortlessly fluid typing experience. In comparison, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers an equally delightful typing sensation, touted for its buttery and creamy qualities, which provide a seamless keystroke experience. The smoothness of both switches can be a result of high-quality manufacturing and lubrication, making them appealing options for typists who prioritize comfort and performance. However, each switch presents its unique experience; the Jelly leans towards ease of actuation, while the Vanilla Ice Cream focuses on a silky texture that enhances the overall typing experience.

In conclusion, both the HMX Jelly and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches offer unique and enjoyable auditory and tactile experiences suitable for different typing preferences. The Jelly's deep, thocky sound and smooth actuation force create an immersive, bass-rich typing environment, whereas the Vanilla Ice Cream’s high-pitched resonance and creamy feel provide a more vibrant and airy experience. Depending on your sound and feel preferences, you can select the switch that aligns most closely with your typing style, ensuring you achieve a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when deciding between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider what you value most in your typing experience. If you prefer a softer, more subdued keystroke with a low-pitched, thocky sound that feels super smooth, the Jelly switch is an excellent choice for you. Its lightweight actuation and deep sound signature make it ideal for users who enjoy a cushioned typing feel without overwhelming auditory feedback, making it perfect for both gaming and prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a high-pitched, clacky sound that adds an engaging auditory dimension to your keystrokes, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch would likely be more suitable. Its buttery and creamy feel, cultivated through its unique POK materials, offers a seamless typing experience, which is perfect for those who prioritize smoothness and responsiveness while enjoying a more lively sound profile. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preferences in sound and feel, making either switch a good fit depending on your typing style and needs.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Jelly Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn more