Gateron Jupiter Red vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream both offer unique qualities worth considering. The Jupiter Red is highly praised for its smooth, uninterrupted keystroke and medium-heavy actuation, making it a top choice for those seeking a consistent typing experience with softer backlight effects. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream stands out with its use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing, providing typists with a smooth and creamy feel that is reminiscent of its dessert namesake. Additionally, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets it apart from the competition. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, it is evident that they both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The Jupiter Red stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a proprietary KTT blend top housing that offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, catering to enthusiasts looking for a distinct typing sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Jupiter Red features a nylon bottom housing that delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a quieter typing experience compared to its counterpart. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream boasts a POK bottom housing that prioritizes smoothness, clackiness, and durability. With a coefficient of friction higher than LY and exceptional wear resistance, the POK material contributes to a smooth typing experience that is built to last.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream differ in their composition and the sound profiles they produce, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience in their own unique ways. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the clacky and durable feel of POK, each housing material offers distinct advantages that cater to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Red requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's 43 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Jupiter Red is 60 grams, while the Vanilla Ice Cream only requires 48 grams to bottom out. This means that the Jupiter Red provides a more substantial typing experience with a higher bottom out force, while the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a lighter keystroke feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming, the Vanilla Ice Cream may be the better option. On the other hand, users who prefer a more substantial keystroke feel may lean towards the Jupiter Red. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, we can see that the Vanilla Ice Cream has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the Jupiter Red. This means that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch will require slightly less force to actuate, making it potentially more suitable for users looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red offers a bit more depth to the key press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more robust feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
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 Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for most typing purposes. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch provides a high-pitched and clacky sound, giving typists a unique auditory experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Jupiter Red switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. Additionally, it provides a creamy sensation, enhancing the overall typing feel. Similarly, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing typists with a fluid and seamless typing sensation. Both switches aim to reduce friction and provide a smooth key travel experience, making typing effortless and enjoyable.
All in all, while the Gateron Jupiter Red and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches offer different sound and feel qualities, both switches are designed to provide typists with a smooth and consistent typing experience. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile or a high-pitched clacky sound, or if you enjoy a polished and creamy feel, both switches will deliver satisfying results. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, typing experience, and sound profile. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth, consistent typing experience with softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a creamy, buttery typing experience with a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you desire.
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