Cherry MX Orange vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing and gaming experience, two standout options are the Cherry MX Orange and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches. The Cherry MX Orange, known for reviving the sought-after original MX Orange switches, offers a reliable and smooth linear performance that many typists appreciate for its consistency and responsiveness. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch brings a unique twist to the linear switch category, utilizing innovative POK materials to create a remarkably smooth and creamy typing experience, all while delivering a delightful high-pitched and clacky sound that many find satisfying. While both switches cater to those who prefer a linear feel, the Cherry MX Orange focuses on tried-and-true performance, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream adds an element of acoustic delight and tactile pleasure. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Orange Linear

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Cherry MX Orange and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches utilize different materials for their respective top housings, which leads to contrasting sound profiles when typing. The Cherry MX Orange features a nylon top housing, known for its softer texture that absorbs sound, ultimately creating a deeper, fuller sound signature. This characteristic allows for a rounder sound experience, making the typing feel more robust and grounded. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream employs a proprietary blend of materials for its top housing, which has been specially mixed to enhance sound quality. As a result, the Vanilla Ice Cream switches produce a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, characterized by a more pronounced auditory feedback during keystrokes.

Delving into the bottom housings, the Cherry MX Orange again utilizes nylon, which contributes similarly to its deep and full sound profile due to the material's sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes POK material, a more advanced choice famous for its strength and smoothness in operations. While nylon provides that warm and rounded bottom-out sound, the POK material enhances the switch's durability and contributes to a "clackier" experience—partly due to its lower friction coefficient and higher shock resistance compared to nylon. Thus, while the MX Orange leans heavily on the softer nylon properties, the Vanilla Ice Cream benefits from the stronger, more resilient POK material that gives it a distinct tactile and auditory experience.

When considering the overall typing experience, both switches exhibit unique strengths that shape how they feel and sound. While the Cherry MX Orange produces a consistent and robust sound profile, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offers a lively and more resonant response. If users desire a typing experience that emphasizes a deep and rounded sound, the MX Orange is ideal, while those who prefer a crisper and more clacky feel will favor the Vanilla Ice Cream. Notably, even though the construction materials differ, the combination of top and bottom housings in both switches allows for their signature sound profiles, making each switch capable of delivering a satisfying tactile feedback that can cater to varied typing preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out characteristics. The Cherry MX Orange requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the lighter 43 grams of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch. This makes the MX Orange more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Vanilla Ice Cream, with its lower actuation force, may be favored by users looking for a lighter touch during extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force of the Cherry MX Orange is not available, making it impossible to directly compare that aspect with the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream’s known bottom out force of 48 grams. Overall, users seeking a heavier switch can opt for the Cherry MX Orange, while those who enjoy a lighter feel would likely prefer the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream.

Travel distance

The Cherry MX Orange switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference highlights the preference for depth in typing experience with the Cherry MX Orange, often favored for its more traditional feel, which can be beneficial for users who appreciate a distinct tactile response. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers seeking quicker actuation and responsiveness, aligning with contemporary trends favoring shorter key travel. Thus, while the Cherry MX Orange provides a more robust depth, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream allows for faster key presses, making it suitable for those who prioritize speed over depth. Overall, the Cherry MX Orange is the longer of the two switches, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream is the shorter option.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profile of the Cherry MX Orange and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches, the nuances become quite clear. The MX Orange is celebrated for its clean and resonant sound, providing a pleasant auditory feedback that balances the intricacies of typing without overwhelming the senses. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream takes it a step further with a distinct high-pitched and clacky sound signature that can be characterized as marbly and resonant. This results in a sharper, more engaging auditory experience that can add an exciting element to typing. The Vanilla Ice Cream’s higher tonal quality, reminiscent of desserts, makes it particularly appealing for those who appreciate elevated sounds in their mechanical keyboard experience.

In terms of feel, the differences between the two switches also stand out. The Cherry MX Orange offers a reliable and satisfying keystroke, appealing to users who value a traditional mechanical feel. The KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, however, excels in delivering a buttery and creamy typing experience: the use of POK material in its construction contributes to a fluid and smooth sensation, allowing typists to glide effortlessly across the keys. This creamy feel, often associated with factory lubricant treatments or premium materials, creates a typing experience that is more seamless and enjoyable, greatly enhancing the keyboard's tactile feedback.

In summary, while the Cherry MX Orange provides a solid and clean auditory and tactile experience, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream elevates these qualities with a sharper sound and a beautifully smooth feel. If you seek a lively auditory profile, the Vanilla Ice Cream shines brightly, while the MX Orange remains a robust and dependable choice. Those who prioritize feel may lean towards the creamy sensation of the Vanilla Ice Cream, while the MX Orange will satisfy those who appreciate a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, both switches can cater to enthusiasts in different ways, leading to enjoyable and satisfying keyboard use regardless of the choice made.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Orange and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches ultimately hinges on your specific typing preferences and the feel you desire from your keyboard. If you prefer a smooth, creamy typing experience with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, the Vanilla Ice Cream switches are an excellent choice. Their unique POK material construction provides a buttery sensation that many typists enjoy, making them ideal for extended typing sessions or casual gaming where comfort is key. On the other hand, if you are drawn to the renowned pedigree of a classic switch like the MX Orange, with its enhancements and reputation for quality, you may find the nostalgia and performance satisfying. Although specific sound and feel descriptions for the MX Orange weren't detailed, it is generally considered a well-rounded switch suitable for both typing and gaming. In essence, prioritize the Vanilla Ice Cream if you value sensation and acoustic feedback, while the MX Orange may appeal to those seeking a reliable, classic feel in their mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn more