Cherry MX Black vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the qualities you prioritize in a switch. The Cherry MX Black offers a classic textured smoothness with a deep sound profile while being categorized as low-pitched, textured, and stiff, making it a favorite among typists who prefer a more traditional typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream stands out for its remarkably smooth and creamy feel, thanks to its innovative use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing. With a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, this switch is perfect for those who enjoy a buttery, creamy, and resonant 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
60g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches, it is evident that they both prioritize sound quality but achieve it in different ways. The MX Black's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary KTT blend top housing creates a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience. While both housing materials aim to enhance sound, they do so through distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the differences between the MX Black's nylon bottom housing and the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK bottom housing become more pronounced. The nylon bottom housing of the MX Black contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing. Meanwhile, the POK material used in the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK bottom housing is known for its exceptional smoothness and durability, as well as its ability to produce a clacky sound. The POK material's superior wear resistance and shock resistance add to the overall quality and longevity of the switches, making it a top choice for those seeking a reliable and long-lasting typing experience.
Overall, while the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches may share some similarities in their top housing materials contributing to sound quality, the differences in their bottom housings set them apart in terms of feel and durability. The MX Black's nylon housing prioritizes sound depth and absorption, while the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK housing focuses on smoothness and longevity. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials, catering to a variety of preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
the Cherry MX Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch. The MX Black requires 60 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 80 grams to bottom out, which provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a better choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to individual preferences, with the MX Black being heavier and the Vanilla Ice Cream being lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The MX Black offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in quicker response times, making it popular among gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the MX Black may feel slightly more substantial while the Vanilla Ice Cream may feel quicker and more responsive.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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 Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a low-pitched and deep sound profile, creating a bass-heavy and mellow tone when typing. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch provides a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, thanks to its POK material construction in both the stem and bottom housing. The Vanilla Ice Cream switch delivers a sharp and crisp sound, making it stand out with its marbly and resonant qualities. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Black switch is known for its textured and stiff characteristics, offering a noticeable friction when pressed and requiring a higher amount of force to actuate. In comparison, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Typing on the Vanilla Ice Cream switch feels seamless, effortless, and uniform, like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offer unique sound and feel experiences for typists. While the MX Black provides a low-pitched and textured feel, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out with its high-pitched and buttery sensation. Depending on personal preference and typing style, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. It's worth considering factors like sound profile and tactile feel when choosing between these two switches to find the one that best suits your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider the bottom out force, sound, and feel that best suits your typing preferences. If you prefer a heavier switch with a low-pitched and textured feel, the Cherry MX Black may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a high-pitched and buttery feel, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you are looking for. Consider trying out both switches to see which one fits your needs best.
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