Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu dustproof purple clicky switch and the KTT vanilla ice cream linear switch present distinct options to consider. The dustproof purple is known for its reliability, while the vanilla ice cream stands out for its use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing, providing typists with a smooth and creamy feel, along with a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. The dustproof purple falls under the category of clicky switches, while the vanilla ice cream is categorized as buttery, creamy, high-pitched, marbly, and resonant. Each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches have some notable differences. The Dustproof Purple utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream features a proprietary KTT blend top housing, which offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. These differences in material contribute to distinct sound profiles, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Dustproof Purple employs a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream uses a POK bottom housing, which boasts exceptional durability and smoothness. The POK material enhances the overall smooth and clacky feel of the switch, making it a top choice for those prioritizing durability and performance. These differences in bottom housing materials further highlight the unique characteristics of each switch and how they impact the overall typing experience.
Despite the variances in housing materials, both the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches excel in providing distinctive tactile and auditory feedback. While the Dustproof Purple leans towards a clearer and resonant sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a clacky and durable typing experience with its proprietary KTT blend top housing and POK bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and durability, showcasing the diversity and innovation within the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is clear that the Dustproof Purple switch has a heavier touch compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream switch. The Dustproof Purple has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Vanilla Ice Cream has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This makes the Dustproof Purple switch better suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In both cases, the actuation force and bottom out force are different, so users can expect varying levels of tactile feedback and typing experience depending on their preference for a lighter or heavier touch.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky 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 has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Dustproof Purple. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Dustproof Purple is more traditional, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the 3.5mm travel distance of the Vanilla Ice Cream is slightly shallower, catering to those who prioritize fast response times. Both switches have their own advantages, with the Dustproof Purple providing a bit more depth and the Vanilla Ice Cream offering a quicker key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and typing habits.
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 Purple 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 Purple clicky switch doesn't have a well-known reputation, making it difficult to compare directly to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch. However, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is praised for its high-pitched and clacky sound profile, providing a distinctive auditory experience for users who enjoy a sharper sound when typing.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Purple lacks specific descriptors for its typing experience, making direct comparisons challenging. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is renowned for its buttery and creamy feel, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation that is reminiscent of its namesake dessert. Typists can expect a seamless and effortless typing experience that glides effortlessly across the keys with each press.
Overall, while specific information about the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch may be limited, users can expect a unique clicky sound and a tactile feedback similar to other clicky switches on the market. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offers a smooth and creamy typing experience with a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. Both switches have their own qualities that cater to different preferences, providing a variety of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to choose from based on their sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a high-pitched, clicky sound with a more traditional typing feel, opt for the Dustproof Purple. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a smooth, buttery typing experience with a unique, creamy sound profile, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound signature. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences for an optimal mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
