Outemu Black vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Black linear switch to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, both switches offer a smooth typing experience without the tactile bump or audible click found in other switch types. The Outemu Black is known for its simplicity and reliability, making it a popular choice for gamers and typists who prefer a consistent keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream stands out for its unique use of POK material in the stem and bottom housing, providing users with a buttery and creamy feel, accompanied by a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While the Outemu Black may be a solid choice for those seeking a straightforward linear switch, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offers a more flavorful typing experience with its innovative design. 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
65g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
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
The Outemu Black and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Black switch utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary KTT blend top housing, which offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While both materials contribute to a clear sound profile, the polycarbonate in the Black switch may be better suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency, whereas the KTT blend in the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a different auditory experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Black switch uses nylon, known for its deep and full sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch features a POK bottom housing, made of polyketone, which provides a smooth and durable typing experience. The POK material's high coefficient of friction and wear resistance make it a top choice for creating switches that are both clacky and long-lasting. While the nylon bottom housing in the Black switch may offer a more rounded sound, the POK bottom housing in the Vanilla Ice Cream switch provides a smoother and more resilient typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials used in the Outemu Black and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches play a significant role in determining the sound and feel of each switch. While both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, such as the sharp and clear sound of polycarbonate in the Black switch and the smooth and durable qualities of POK in the Vanilla Ice Cream switch, they both provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to different preferences. Whether you prioritize a louder clacky sound or a more resonant sharp sound, the housing materials of these switches contribute to their overall performance and feel.
Weight
The Outemu Black linear switch has a higher actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, making it a heavier switch compared to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it lighter. The higher actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Black provide a more substantial typing experience, which some users may prefer for increased feedback and accuracy. In contrast, the lighter forces of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch make it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue, perfect for those who want a more effortless typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu 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. This means that the Vanilla Ice Cream has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Black. The difference may not seem significant, but for those seeking a quicker and more responsive typing experience, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, but the subtle difference in travel distance can make a noticeable impact on the overall feel of the keyboard.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Black linear switch is known for its lack of distinct characteristics, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is recognized for its high-pitched and clacky sound profile. The Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out for its unique use of POK material in the stem and bottom housing, offering typists a smooth and creamy feel reminiscent of the dessert it's named after. The high-pitched and resonant sound of the Vanilla Ice Cream switch provides a sharp and crisp auditory experience, setting it apart from other linear switches on the market.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Black linear switch does not have specified qualities, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is often described as buttery and creamy. The buttery sensation of the Vanilla Ice Cream switch implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless and uniform typing sensation. The creamy feel of these switches is akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, providing a silky sensation that enhances the overall typing experience.
Overall, the Outemu Black and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Black switch may provide a standard typing experience without any specific standout features, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch impresses with its unique use of POK material for a smooth and creamy feel, accompanied by a high-pitched and clacky sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Black linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider your preference for key feel and sound. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a more neutral sound profile, the Outemu Black may be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy a smoother and lighter typing experience with a distinctive high-pitched and clacky sound, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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