Outemu Lotus vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Outemu Lotus, a linear switch, and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, also a linear switch. The Lotus is known for its unique characteristics; however, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a distinctive experience of its own. The Lotus switch is categorized as "linear", while the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is described as buttery, creamy, high-pitched, marbly, and resonant. The Vanilla Ice Cream switch's use of POK in the stem and bottom housing provides typists with a smooth and creamy feel, along with a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While both switches have their strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing the best switch for your typing needs. Let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 Lotus and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, we can see some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize Nylon for their top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature that absorbs more sound. However, the Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary KTT blend offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, setting it apart from the Lotus in terms of sound characteristics. On the other hand, the Lotus's Nylon bottom housing shares the same characteristics as the top housing, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK bottom housing offers exceptional durability and smoothness, contributing to a clacky sound and durable switches.
The differences in housing materials between the Outemu Lotus and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream contribute to their unique sound profiles and typing experiences. The Lotus's use of Nylon for both top and bottom housing results in a consistent and deep sound profile, offering a duller and rounder sound due to its absorbent nature. In comparison, the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a blend of materials for its top housing, providing a higher-pitched and clacky sound signature that stands out from the Lotus. Additionally, the POK bottom housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream enhances durability and smoothness, making it a top choice for those seeking a reliable and long-lasting typing experience.
Overall, while both switches share the use of Nylon for their top housing, the Outemu Lotus and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences due to their different bottom housing materials. The Lotus provides a consistent and deep sound profile throughout, while the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a unique high-pitched and clacky sound signature. Additionally, the durability and smoothness of the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK bottom housing set it apart in terms of long-term reliability. Despite these differences, both switches deliver satisfying typing experiences for enthusiasts looking for quality housing materials that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams compared to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch which has an actuation force of 43 grams, making the Lotus easier to activate. In terms of bottom out force, the Lotus requires 50 grams to fully press the key, while the Vanilla Ice Cream requires 48 grams. Both switches have relatively light bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Lotus due to its lower actuation force, while those who prefer a slightly heavier touch may prefer the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream. Overall, both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience with relatively light actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, the Lotus has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's 3.5 mm. The Lotus offers a quicker response time due to its shorter distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for fast reactions. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream provides a slightly deeper press, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of responsiveness and key feel.
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 Lotus 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 KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch takes the lead with its high-pitched and clacky sound signature, giving typists a unique auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the sound of the Outemu Lotus linear switch remains unknown, so it's hard to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is lauded for its buttery and creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation that mimics the texture of its namesake dessert. The feel of the Outemu Lotus linear switch is unspecified, so it's challenging to draw a direct contrast on this quality. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective characteristics, ensuring that users will enjoy a comfortable and pleasant typing session.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Lotus and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches have unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, it's important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch for your needs. If you prefer a high-pitched and clacky sound with a buttery and creamy typing feel, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be the ideal choice for you. Conversely, if additional information becomes available about the Outemu Lotus switch, and it aligns with your preferences, you can expect a similar level of satisfaction. Ultimately, experimenting with different switches and finding the one that matches your typing style and preferences is key to a fulfilling mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a higher-pitched and clacky sound, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and creamy typing experience, the Lotus switch could be the right choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sensory experience you desire while typing. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your personal typing style and preferences.
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