SP-Star Meteor White vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the SP-Star Meteor White and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct qualities that set them apart. The SP-Star Meteor White is favored for its gentle linear feel, easy actuation, and soft sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to its innovative use of POK material. This switch also offers a unique high-pitched and clacky sound signature that adds to the typing experience. 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
57g
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
Nylon
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
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor White and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offer different characteristics that impact the sound and feel of the switches. The Nylon top housing of the Meteor White provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary KTT blend top housing offers a higher-pitched and clacky sound signature. This difference in sound profile can significantly alter the typing experience for users, as the sound and feel of the switches will vary between the two.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Meteor White and the Vanilla Ice Cream switches utilize different materials. The Nylon bottom housing of the Meteor White provides similar characteristics to its top housing, offering a deep and full sound profile. On the other hand, the POK bottom housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream is known for its smoothness, durability, and shock resistance. The POK material contributes to the overall smooth and clacky feel of the switch, providing a different typing experience compared to the Meteor White. Despite being different materials, both bottom housings play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switches.
In summary, while the Meteor White and the Vanilla Ice Cream may both offer unique housing materials for their switches, they each provide distinct typing experiences due to their different sound profiles and characteristics. The Nylon housing of the Meteor White emphasizes a deep and full sound, while the KTT blend top housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a higher-pitched and clacky sound signature. Similarly, the Nylon bottom housing of the Meteor White and the POK bottom housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream provide different levels of smoothness, durability, and impact on the sound and feel of the switches. Overall, the housing materials of both switches contribute significantly to the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
In comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Meteor White has a bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Vanilla Ice Cream is lighter at 48 grams. The actuation force of the Meteor White is not specified, whereas the Vanilla Ice Cream requires 43 grams. This indicates that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Meteor White. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Vanilla Ice Cream would be the preferred choice, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Meteor White may be more suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier and more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is 4 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Meteor White being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Vanilla Ice Cream switch for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial key press experience may lean towards the Meteor White switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of desired key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a neutral and thocky sound profile, suitable for a variety of users and purposes. The sound produced is moderate and satisfying, with a deep and rich thud when the keys are pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch stands out with its high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound signature. This switch delivers a sharp and crisp sound, reminiscent of two billiard balls colliding, providing an immersive auditory experience. Depending on personal preference and the keyboard setup, users can choose between the softer and more subdued sound of the Meteor White or the unique and distinctive sound of the Vanilla Ice Cream.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle keypress and smooth key travel. The feel of this switch is approachable and comfortable for most users, falling into a safe middle-ground zone in terms of typing characteristics. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch provides a buttery and creamy typing sensation, thanks to its smooth and fluid keystroke experience. With a seamless and effortless typing sensation, these switches offer a silky feel that allows fingers to glide across the keys with ease. Whether users prefer a mild and polished feel or a buttery and creamy typing experience, both switches provide a satisfying feel that can enhance the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Meteor White provides a softer and more subdued sound and feel, suitable for a wide range of users, the Vanilla Ice Cream stands out with its unique high-pitched sound and buttery feel. Choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on personal preference, with users getting similar results in terms of performance and satisfaction regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a soft, pitter-patter sound profile, the Meteor White may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a high-pitched, clacky sound signature with a smooth and creamy feel, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch could be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so make sure to choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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