HMX Lucky vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lucky and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offer distinct experiences, even as they share the linear switch category. The HMX Lucky switch is celebrated for its lightweight design and softer nylon housing, providing a neutral and satisfying typing experience that many users find appealing, especially those who prefer a gentler feel under their fingertips. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream distinguishes itself with its innovative use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing, resulting in a remarkably smooth and creamy typing experience that is often compared to enjoying a delightful dessert. Additionally, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is noted for its high-pitched and clacky sound signature, adding an engaging auditory element that sets it apart. Ultimately, each switch presents unique benefits: the Lucky focuses on a lightweight and enjoyable feel, while the Vanilla Ice Cream emphasizes a lavish tactile experience with an exciting sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Lucky Linear

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Lucky and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches exhibit notable differences in their housing materials, which significantly affect their acoustic properties and overall typing experience. The HMX Lucky utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a material recognized for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon enables it to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory feedback when keys are pressed. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream features a proprietary blend for its top housing, which delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. This distinction in top housing materials sets the two switches apart, as the KTT's mixed materials tend to emphasize brightness and sharpness, contrasting with the warm, rounded acoustics of the nylon used in the Lucky.

As we delve deeper into the bottom housings, the comparison highlights further contrasts in material choice and performance. The HMX Lucky retains nylon for its bottom housing, continuing the legacy of rounded sound and smooth typing characterized by this gentle plastic. Conversely, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream employs POK material for its bottom housing, which not only provides robustness—being significantly stronger and more shock-resistant than nylon—but also enhances typist feedback due to its finely tuned friction coefficient. The resulting typing sensation is markedly smoother in the Vanilla Ice Cream due to the POK's superior durability and performance, which contrasts with the more soft and muted feel that nylon provides throughout the Lucky's configuration.

In essence, while both switches have their strengths, the differences in their housing materials ultimately yield varied results in terms of sound and feel. Despite these differences, there is a way to achieve analogous results by considering the interplay between the top and bottom housing materials. For example, if one were to use nylon in the top housing of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, the resulting acoustics might soften and bridge the gap towards the rounded tones of the Lucky. Conversely, modifying the bottom housing of the Lucky with a more rigid material could enhance both the feedback and the clackiness—characteristics that define the Vanilla Ice Cream experience. Thus, while the materials differ, careful adjustments could yield a personalized switch performance tailored to an individual's typing preferences.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, there's a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lucky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a more comfortable option for those who type for long periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch features a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Overall, if you're seeking a lighter switch, the HMX Lucky is the ideal choice, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offers a bit more resistance for a firmer typing experience. Both switches, though categorized as light, cater to different user preferences based on the nuances of actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences among users. The HMX Lucky features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer option, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. For gamers or those who favor a more responsive keystroke, the shorter travel distance of the Vanilla Ice Cream may be more appealing, allowing for quicker actuation. Conversely, the Lucky's longer travel distance could provide a more satisfying depth for users who prefer a more pronounced feel when pressing down on their keys. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether one prioritizes speed or a more substantial keypress experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Lucky linear switch comes across as neutral and satisfying, though specific descriptors for its acoustic profile are not provided. This suggests a more subdued and perhaps less characteristically unique sound when compared to other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch delights with its high-pitched, clacky sound signature, characterized by clean and resonant qualities. The sound profile of the Vanilla Ice Cream offers an immersive auditory experience with a bright edge, making it a standout option for those who prefer a sharper keystroke sound. Acoustic outcomes are also influenced by external factors like the keyboard construction and keycap materials, meaning both switches may exhibit distinct sound profiles based on their environment.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Lucky linear switch is recognized for its lightweight nature and softer nylon housing that contributes to a deeply satisfying typing experience. However, without specific qualitative descriptors, it's difficult to ascertain its tactile and resistance characteristics fully. Conversely, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is described as buttery and creamy, offering a notably smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This implies a very effortless typing sensation, both from the internal materials and the construction of the switch itself, which enhances the overall tactile feedback during typing sessions. While the Lucky provides a neutral feel, the Vanilla Ice Cream clearly distinguishes itself with a more pleasurable tactile experience.

In summary, while the HMX Lucky linear switch offers a satisfying and neutral sound and feel, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch excels in providing a delightful high-pitched sound coupled with a buttery and creamy typing experience. If you're looking for a more refined auditory and tactile pleasure, the Vanilla Ice Cream would be an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a more straightforward typing sensation that is still quite enjoyable, the Lucky might suit you well. Each switch presents a unique experience, allowing typists to choose based on their personal preferences for sound and feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, selecting between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a lighter touch and a typing experience that feels neutral yet satisfying, the Lucky switches are an excellent choice. Their softer nylon housings provide a smooth, pleasant feel, making them ideal for extended typing sessions or casual use where comfort is paramount. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that offers a unique auditory experience along with a buttery and creamy feel, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches would be more suitable. Their high-pitched, resonant sound and the meticulously crafted materials give a distinct smoothness, making them perfect for those who enjoy a slightly higher actuation force and a more expressive typing sound. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize a lighter, softer feel or a more dynamic auditory and tactile experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn more