Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, clear differences can be seen between the two. The Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch with a reputation for reliability, while the Vanilla Ice Cream is a linear switch that stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the POK material used in both the stem and bottom housing. The Dustproof Blue is categorized as clicky, while the Vanilla Ice Cream is described as buttery, creamy, high-pitched, marbly, and resonant. Different typists may prefer each switch for various reasons, with the Dustproof Blue providing a tactile clicky experience and the Vanilla Ice Cream offering a buttery smooth typing experience. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, we can see that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Dustproof Blue features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while its nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream uses a proprietary KTT blend for its top housing, resulting in a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, and a POK bottom housing that contributes to smooth and durable switches. In terms of sound profiles, the Dustproof Blue offers a more diverse range with its combination of polycarbonate and nylon, while the Vanilla Ice Cream provides a consistent clacky sound with its KTT and POK blend.
When it comes to aesthetics, the Dustproof Blue's clear polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a visually appealing option for those who enjoy customizable setups. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary KTT blend top housing does not offer the same level of translucency but makes up for it with its unique sound profile. Additionally, the POK bottom housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream adds a level of durability and smoothness that may appeal to users looking for a long-lasting and reliable switch. Overall, both switches offer distinct advantages in terms of sound quality, aesthetics, and durability based on their choice of housing materials.
While the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream have different housing materials, both switches aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a combination of qualities that impact the sound and feel of each keystroke. The Dustproof Blue's use of polycarbonate and nylon creates a balanced sound profile with depth and clarity, while the Vanilla Ice Cream's KTT and POK blend focuses on delivering a consistent clacky sound and smooth operation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preferences for sound, aesthetics, and durability, as each offers unique qualities that cater to different user needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Dustproof Blue has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Vanilla Ice Cream has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams. The Dustproof Blue provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy forces, while the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a lighter touch, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Both switches have differences in weight, with the Dustproof Blue being heavier and the Vanilla Ice Cream being lighter. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is clear that the Dustproof Blue has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's 3.5 mm. The Dustproof Blue offers a more traditional feel with its 4 mm travel distance, while the Vanilla Ice Cream provides a slightly shallower feel with its 3.5 mm travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Dustproof Blue for its longer travel distance which can offer a more responsive feel, while those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times may opt for the Vanilla Ice Cream. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
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 Dustproof Blue 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is known for its crisp and clicky noise, providing a tactile and satisfying auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is renowned for its high-pitched and clacky sound profile, which adds a unique touch to your typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Dustproof Blue being more traditional in its clicky sound, while the Vanilla Ice Cream switch delivers a more resonant and sharp noise.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is recognized for providing a tactile and responsive typing experience, offering a satisfying tactile bump and click with each keystroke. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing. Typists who prefer a buttery and seamless typing sensation would appreciate the creamy sensation that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers, while those who enjoy a more tactile and clicky feel may lean towards the Dustproof Blue switch.
Overall, both the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Blue switch delivers a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch provides a smooth and creamy typing experience with a high-pitched and clacky sound profile. Whether you prefer a traditional clicky feel or a more modern smooth sensation, both switches are sure to enhance your typing experience with their unique qualities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for key feel and sound. If you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Dustproof Blue may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy typing feel with a lighter bottom out force, along with a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch could be more to your liking. Consider your personal typing style and preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Happy typing!
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