Kailh BCP vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference, and two popular options worth considering are the Kailh BCP and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, both linear switches known for their unique tactile experiences. The BCP, reimagined by Kailh, offers an innovative design that eliminates the need for disassembly, delivering a creamy and elastic typing feel with a distinct poppy, clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch captivates with its high-quality POK material in both the stem and housing, providing an exceptionally smooth and creamy typing experience that embodies its dessert-inspired name. With a high-pitched, clacky acoustic signature, the Vanilla Ice Cream is perfect for those who appreciate an engaging auditory experience. While both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, their distinct characteristics appeal to different user 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

Kailh BCP Linear

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh BCP and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches showcase distinct characteristics that influence their typing experience. The BCP's top and bottom housings are made from nylon, a classic material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a typing experience that is rounder and more subdued. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a proprietary blend of materials for the top housing, which yields a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. This difference in sound profiles reflects not only the materials used but also the philosophies behind each switch design—where the BCP aims for deeper resonance, the Vanilla Ice Cream emphasizes a sharper auditory feedback.

While both the BCP and Vanilla Ice Cream switches employ different bottom housing materials, their respective choices lead to unique typing experiences. The BCP features a nylon bottom housing, reinforcing the switch’s overall softer sound profile and enhancing the mellow auditory experience upon bottoming out. In comparison, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream uses a POK bottom housing, which is notably stronger and more durable than nylon. Thanks to its high coefficient of friction and superior wear resistance, the POK material contributes to a smooth and resilient keystroke. When pressed, the POK bottom housing provides a distinct feel, characterized by robustness and a smoother actuation, contrasting sharply with the BCP's more traditional soft-touch experience.

Ultimately, the interplay between the differing top and bottom housing materials in each switch significantly affects typing sound and feel. Although the Kailh BCP consistently utilizes nylon in both top and bottom housings, leading to a cohesive sound profile, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream combines its proprietary top blend with a POK bottom housing to create a more textured typing experience. If one were to select switches based on sound preferences, understanding these differences is essential as the top and bottom housing materials dictate the overall character of each switch. Therefore, while the BCP aims for a deeper auditory experience, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream pushes for a brighter and more clacky sound, reflecting their distinct material choices and design intentions.

Weight

The Kailh BCP linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch present a distinct contrast in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The BCP switch features an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Conversely, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who appreciate a softer touch during extended typing or gaming sessions. In summary, the BCP switch requires more force to actuate and bottom out, resulting in a heavier feel, while the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a lighter and more responsive experience. If users desire an experience with less strain, opting for the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream would be advantageous, whereas those who prefer a firmer push might gravitate towards the Kailh BCP.

Travel distance

Both the Kailh BCP linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch share the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This identical travel distance means that users can expect a similar feel and performance when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they offer comparable tactile feedback and key press experience, making them suitable options for those who favor linear switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh BCP switch offers a signature poppy and clacky sound profile that provides an engaging auditory experience during typing. This characteristically vibrant sound is complemented by its custom-molded design, creating a unique acoustic signature that stands out on the keyboard. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch has its own individuality marked by a high-pitched and resonant clack. This switch delivers a clean, sharp sound that could be described as marbly, enhancing the typing experience with resonant notes that are both immersive and crisp. While both switches exhibit a clacky sound, the BCP leans towards a bouncier and poppier sound profile, while the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a sharper, more crystalline resonance.

When it comes to feel, the BCP's design provides a creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy experience, making each keystroke feel lively and responsive. This dynamic typing sensation can make long hours behind the keyboard more enjoyable as it encourages a natural typing rhythm. Conversely, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out with its buttery and creamy feel, which promotes a smooth, effortless keystroke experience reminiscent of its namesake dessert. This silky sensation allows for fluid typing, providing a seamless transition from one key to another. While both switches offer a delightful tactile experience, the BCP leans more towards a vibrant and elastic feel, whereas the Vanilla Ice Cream emphasizes smoothness and ease.

In conclusion, both the Kailh BCP and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches present distinct yet appealing sound and feel qualities. The BCP is characterized by its poppy, clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, enhancing the overall auditory and tactile experience. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a high-pitched and resonant sound, combined with a buttery smoothness that promotes effortless keystrokes. While they diverge in certain attributes, these switches cater to similar preferences for those seeking an engaging typing experience, so either choice could satisfy users looking for an enjoyable linear switch.

Conclusion

To sum up, your choice between the Kailh BCP and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding typing feel, sound, and force. If you favor a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force and enjoy a bouncy, elastic feel accompanied by a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, the Kailh BCP is likely the better option for you. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate tactile feedback and a sound profile that's engaging yet vibrant. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a softer actuation force, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream is an excellent choice. Its buttery and creamy feel, thanks to its unique material composition, provides a smooth and seamless typing experience that many find delightful. Additionally, if you lean towards a high-pitched, resonant sound that gives your keystrokes a crisp clarity, then the Vanilla Ice Cream will likely align better with your auditory preferences. In essence, consider your typing style and what aspects of a switch matter most to you—whether it’s a heavier feel and a vibrant sound or a lighter touch with a silky smoothness.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh BCP Linear

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

Learn more

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn more