Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The Dustproof Brown is known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, delivering a unique typing experience thanks to its POK material in the stem and bottom housing. While the Dustproof Brown offers a classic tactile typing experience, the Vanilla Ice Cream excels in providing a buttery and high-pitched sound profile. 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
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
PCB (5-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 Brown and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches, we can see that they each offer unique characteristics. The Dustproof Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a proprietary KTT blend top housing, offering a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While both materials aim to enhance sound quality, the difference lies in the distinct tones they produce.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Dustproof Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream features a POK bottom housing, praised for its smoothness, clackiness, and durability. The POK material's exceptional strength and wear resistance make it a preferred choice for constructing long-lasting switches. Overall, the bottom housing materials of these switches contribute significantly to their sound profiles and overall performance.
While the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Dustproof Brown and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches differ, each material plays a crucial role in determining the switches' sound and feel. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Despite their differences in material composition, both switches aim to provide an enhanced typing experience with unique sound profiles. Whether you prefer the sharper tones of polycarbonate or the clackiness of the KTT blend, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in the typing experience. The Dustproof Brown has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy feel. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option. The Dustproof Brown would be more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, while the Vanilla Ice Cream would be ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch and the ability to type for longer periods without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch has the shorter travel distance compared to the Dustproof Brown switch. The shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm might be preferred by those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of 4 mm on the Dustproof Brown switch may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a bit more depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Brown and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches offer distinctly different experiences. The Dustproof Brown's sound profile is not well-known, but the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is noted for its high-pitched and clacky sound when pressed. This creates a sharp and crisp auditory feedback that sets it apart from other switches in the market. However, it's important to remember that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Dustproof Brown switch's tactile feedback is not specifically highlighted. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is praised for its buttery and creamy typing experience. These descriptors indicate a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation that is effortless and uniform. Typing on the Vanilla Ice Cream switch can be likened to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, providing a delightful tactile experience that many users appreciate.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Brown and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Brown's characteristics may not be as well-documented, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is celebrated for its high-pitched and clacky sound, along with a buttery and creamy typing feel. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches promise to deliver reliable performance and enjoyment for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider the bottom out force preference as a key factor. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, the Dustproof Brown may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams and are looking for a smooth and creamy typing experience with a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing style and preference for tactile feedback and sound characteristics.
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