Outemu Dustproof Red vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream

Overview

When looking at the Outemu Dustproof Red and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note their unique characteristics that set them apart. The Dustproof Red, a linear switch, is best known for its durability and resistance to dust. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch stands out for its use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing, providing a smooth and creamy feel with a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While the Dustproof Red may appeal to those looking for a reliable and long-lasting switch, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is ideal for typists who enjoy a buttery, creamy typing experience with a unique 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

Outemu Dustproof Red Linear

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$3.10 per 10

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Red and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, we can see significant differences between the two. The Dustproof Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. 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 for a distinct sound profile, the choice between polycarbonate and the KTT blend may come down to personal preference for sound characteristics in mechanical keyboards.

Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Dustproof Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nylon plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a rounder and duller sound. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream employs a POK bottom housing, known for its exceptional smoothness and durability. With wear resistance surpassing POM and shock resistance exceeding Nylon, the POK material contributes to smooth, clacky, and durable switches. The difference in bottom housing materials showcases the various approaches manufacturers take to achieve specific sound and feel characteristics in mechanical keyboard switches.

Overall, while the Outemu Dustproof Red and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream may utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, both aim to create unique sound profiles and typing experiences. The choice between polycarbonate and the KTT blend for the top housing, as well as nylon and POK for the bottom housing, reflects the manufacturers' considerations for sound, feel, and durability. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound like the Dustproof Red or a clacky sound with exceptional smoothness and durability like the Vanilla Ice Cream, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to individual preferences in mechanical keyboards.

Weight

The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch differ in their weight. The Dustproof Red has a medium actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a balance between a light and heavy feel. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Vanilla Ice Cream, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Dustproof Red. Both switches offer unique advantages based on individual preferences, with lighter switches suitable for longer typing sessions and heavier switches providing a stronger push feel for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.

Travel distance

The Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Dustproof Red switch falls on the more traditional side with its 4 mm travel distance, providing a balanced feel when typing. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch with its 3.5 mm travel distance offers a quicker and more responsive typing experience, which is favored by gamers. Those who prefer a more substantial key press may gravitate towards the Dustproof Red, while those looking for speed and agility may lean towards the Vanilla Ice Cream. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch is known for its lack of a distinct reputation in the mechanical keyboard community. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is recognized for its high-pitched and clacky sound profile. This makes the Vanilla Ice Cream switch a standout choice for those who prefer a sharp and crisp sound when typing. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch doesn't have a widely recognized reputation for its tactile experience. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is known for its remarkably smooth and creamy feel, akin to the dessert it's named after. Descriptors such as "buttery" and "creamy" are used to describe the typing experience on these switches, highlighting the smooth and effortless keystrokes typists can expect. This tactile sensation can greatly enhance the overall typing experience, providing a satisfying feel with each key press.

In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Red and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dustproof Red switch may not have a defined reputation in the community, while the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is praised for its high-pitched sound signature and smooth, creamy feel. Depending on personal preferences, typists can choose between a switch that offers a neutral sound profile like the Dustproof Red or opt for the unique auditory and tactile experience of the Vanilla Ice Cream switch. Both switches have their own merits, and selecting the right one ultimately depends on individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, feel, and sound. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and are looking for a switch with no specific standout features, the Dustproof Red may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams and enjoy a smooth and creamy typing experience with a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch would be a more suitable option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of key feel, sound, and typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Dustproof Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn more