Outemu Milk Tea vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Tea and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, there are distinct features that set them apart. The Milk Tea switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing typists with a satisfying bump during actuation. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing. While the Milk Tea offers a tactile typing experience, the Vanilla Ice Cream delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
N/A
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
Ly
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
The Outemu Milk Tea and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound signature. The Milk Tea's Ly top housing provides bright and resonant clacks when typing, while the Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary KTT blend top housing offers a high-pitched and clacky sound. Despite these differences, both materials aim to enhance the typing experience through distinct sound profiles.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Milk Tea utilizes nylon which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream features a POK bottom housing known for its exceptional strength, smoothness, and durability. While nylon creates a duller and rounder sound, POK material contributes to smooth, clacky, and durable switches. These unique qualities shape the tactile feedback and overall typing feel of each switch.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Milk Tea and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches will come down to personal preference based on sound preferences and typing feel. The distinctive properties of the housing materials in each switch play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer the bright and resonant clacks of the Milk Tea's Ly top housing or the high-pitched clacky sound of the Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary blend, both switches offer quality housing materials that enhance the typing sound signature.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Milk Tea requires a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's 43 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Milk Tea is unknown, whereas the Vanilla Ice Cream has a relatively light bottom out force of 48 grams. In terms of weight, the Milk Tea may provide a more tactile typing experience due to its higher actuation force, which could be preferred by users looking for a more substantial push feel. On the other hand, the lighter bottom out force of the Vanilla Ice Cream may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of use, such as during work or extended gaming sessions. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches compared here. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option. The Milk Tea offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keyfeel. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream provides a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers looking for faster input speeds. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on whether you prioritize depth or speed in your 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 Milk Tea 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 milk tea switch is known for its unique characteristics, while the KTT vanilla ice cream switch is recognized for its high-pitched and clacky sound profile. The vanilla ice cream switch offers a distinctive auditory experience with its sharp and resonant sound, making it stand out among linear switches. The milk tea switch's sound profile may vary depending on the rest of your setup, but it is well-regarded for its own qualities.
Moving on to feel, the milk tea switch is known for its specific tactile feedback and typing experience, whereas the KTT vanilla ice cream switch offers a smooth and creamy feel that is reminiscent of its dessert namesake. Described as buttery and creamy, these linear switches provide a seamless and effortless typing sensation that can enhance the overall typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile and typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
Overall, the Outemu milk tea switch and the KTT vanilla ice cream switch both offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience for users. While the sound and feel of each switch may vary, depending on personal preference and the rest of the setup, both switches bring something distinctive to the table. Whether you prefer a sharp and clacky sound profile or a smooth and creamy typing experience, both the milk tea and vanilla ice cream switches provide options that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, trying out both switches firsthand can help determine which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a unique bottom out force and a specific typing experience, the Outemu Milk Tea may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy linear switch with a light bottom out force and a high-pitched sound profile, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force. Happy typing!
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