Outemu Brown vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Outemu Brown and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Brown and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Brown switch is a tactile option, providing a subtle bump when pressed, making it ideal for typists who prefer a more pronounced feedback while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is a linear switch that stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to its innovative use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing. This switch offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, adding a touch of uniqueness to the typing experience. Each switch has its own benefits and drawbacks, but ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
53g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.20 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Brown and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches, the differences are evident. The Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the high-pitched and clacky sound signature of the Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary KTT blend top housing. In terms of aesthetics, the Brown's translucent polycarbonate top housing is ideal for use with RGB lighting, while the Vanilla Ice Cream's special mixed materials offer a unique look and sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Outemu Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream switches feature a POK bottom housing made of polyketone, which offers smoothness, durability, and a clacky sound. The differences in bottom housing materials play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Outemu Brown and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches ultimately aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. While the Brown's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing contribute to a clear and resonant sound with a deeper tone, the Vanilla Ice Cream's blend of special materials in the top housing and POK material in the bottom housing offer a unique clacky sound and exceptional durability. Overall, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Outemu Brown tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch have notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Outemu Brown has a higher actuation force of 53 grams compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's lighter force of 43 grams, making the Brown switch a bit heavier to press down on. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Outemu Brown is 65 grams, which is heavier than the Vanilla Ice Cream's 48 grams, indicating a more substantial typing experience with the Brown switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods may opt for the Vanilla Ice Cream switch, while individuals looking for a more pronounced push feel may lean towards the Outemu Brown switch for a heavier typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences based on their actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the 3.5 mm travel distance of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch. The Outemu Brown will provide a deeper key press experience, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying feel. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a good choice for those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience desired.
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 Brown 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 Brown tactile switch is known for its consistent and moderate sound profile, neither too loud nor too soft. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch's sound signature is characterized by a high-pitched and clacky noise that sets it apart from other switches. If you prefer a sharper and more pronounced sound when typing, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch might be the better choice for you.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Brown switch offers a tactile bump that provides feedback to the typist upon actuation, giving a responsive feel to each keystroke. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is lauded for its buttery and creamy typing experience, thanks to the smoothness achieved through the use of POK material in the stem and bottom housing. Typists looking for a seamless and effortless typing sensation may find the Vanilla Ice Cream switch to be more to their liking.
In conclusion, the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offer different but equally satisfying experiences. While the Brown switch provides a moderate sound and tactile feedback, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch excels in delivering a high-pitched and clacky sound with a buttery and creamy typing feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can enhance your typing experience. If you prefer one quality over the other, selecting the appropriate switch would be key in achieving the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, smooth actuation, and a distinct sound profile, the Outemu Brown switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a lower bottom out force, a creamy and buttery typing experience, and a high-pitched and clacky sound, then the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is the one for you. Consider your typing preferences, desired feel, and sound preference when choosing between these two switches to ensure an optimal typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
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