Durock Lupine vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Lupine and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches are definitely worth considering. The Lupine stands out for its unique two-stage long springs, providing a consistent weight distribution on the downstroke and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. This switch also offers a classic clacky sound profile, making typing a satisfying experience. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch from KTT impresses with its use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing, delivering a smooth and creamy typing feel that is akin to its namesake dessert. Acoustically, these switches produce a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, setting them apart from others in the market. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that 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
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Two-stage long spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a proprietary KTT blend top housing and a POK bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Lupine creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the high-pitched and clacky sound signature of the Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary blend. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Lupine produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, in contrast to the smooth, clacky, and durable qualities of the POK bottom housing in the Vanilla Ice Cream. Despite the differences in materials used, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
One key difference between the housing materials of the Lupine and the Vanilla Ice Cream lies in the impact they have on the sound and feel of the switches. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Lupine contributes to a more resonant sound when keys are released, while the softer nylon bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel. In comparison, the proprietary KTT blend top housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream enhances the high-pitched and clacky sound signature, while the durable POK bottom housing ensures a smooth typing experience with added strength and wear resistance. These contrasting qualities demonstrate how the choice of housing materials can significantly influence the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Durock Lupine and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, each contributes to a distinct typing experience. The Lupine's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing offers a deeper sound. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream's KTT blend top housing provides a high-pitched and clacky sound, complemented by the smooth and durable qualities of the POK bottom housing. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lupine requires 62 grams while the Vanilla Ice Cream only needs 48 grams. This makes the Lupine a heavier option overall, as it requires more force to bottom out, while the Vanilla Ice Cream is lighter in comparison. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Vanilla Ice Cream switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might opt for the Lupine switch for a more substantial typing feel. In terms of actuation force, both switches provide different experiences as the Lupine requires no specific force but the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a light actuation force of 43 grams. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them popular choices for gamers seeking faster response times. However, the Lupine has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more substantial key press feel compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press sensation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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 Durock Lupine linear switch is known for producing a classic clacky sound profile, making it suitable for those who enjoy a more traditional keyboard sound. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches in the market. Both switches have a high-pitched sound profile, but the Lupine has a more neutral overall sound, catering to a wider range of users, while the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a more resonant and marbly sound that may appeal to those looking for a distinct acoustical experience.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a consistent weight distribution and a powerful upward movement on the rebound, giving typists a polished and refined typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers typists a remarkably smooth and creamy feel, akin to the dessert it's named after. The Vanilla Ice Cream switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation that feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, with the Lupine leaning towards a mild and polished feel, while the Vanilla Ice Cream leans more towards a buttery and creamy sensation.
In conclusion, both the Durock Lupine linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch provide unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Lupine offers a classic clacky sound profile and a consistent weight distribution for a polished typing experience, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out with its high-pitched and creamy acoustics and smooth keystroke feel reminiscent of its namesake. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as both can offer a satisfying typing experience with their respective qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a more neutral sound profile with a hint of high-pitched tones, the Lupine may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more distinct high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound profile, along with a buttery and creamy typing experience, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two fantastic switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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