Outemu Ocean vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch are two popular options to consider. The Outemu Ocean is recognized for its tactile feedback, which provides a satisfying bump when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing. Each switch offers a unique typing experience, with the Ocean appealing to those who enjoy tactile feedback and the Vanilla Ice Cream appealing to those who prefer a smooth and clacky typing experience. 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
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
The Outemu Ocean and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches both boast unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a clear and resonant quality. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a proprietary KTT blend top housing that produces a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While both materials offer a distinct sound experience, the Ocean's polycarbonate housing is more likely to be used in switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the KTT blend top housing remains a mystery in terms of its specific composition.
In terms of the bottom housing, the differences between the Ocean's nylon and the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK material are equally noteworthy. The nylon bottom housing of the Ocean provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the POK material in the Vanilla Ice Cream's bottom housing offers a smooth and durable experience, with exceptional wear resistance and shock resistance. Both materials contribute to the overall feel and sound of the switch, with the bottom housing having a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released.
While the Outemu Ocean and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches showcase contrasting housing materials with unique qualities, they ultimately aim to enhance the user's typing experience in different ways. The Ocean's polycarbonate top housing delivers a crisp and resonant sound, especially suited for switches with RGB lighting, while the Nylon bottom housing provides a fuller and deeper sound profile. In comparison, the Vanilla Ice Cream's KTT blend top housing offers a clacky sound signature, paired with a POK bottom housing that ensures smoothness and durability. Despite their differences, both switches prioritize sound quality and durability, showcasing the importance of housing materials in creating a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, which requires only 43 grams to actuate. However, the bottom out force of the Ocean is unknown, while the Vanilla Ice Cream has a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it lighter in comparison. The difference in actuation force may result in a more significant typing experience with the Ocean switch, providing a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a stronger typing experience. On the other hand, the lighter actuation force of the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue could be a concern. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and whether a lighter or heavier force is desired for typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The Outemu Ocean 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. This means that the Ocean has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Ocean is more traditional, offering a deeper feel when pressing down on a key, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Vanilla Ice Cream is slightly shorter, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize faster response times. Both switches offer their own advantages, with the Ocean providing a deeper press and the Vanilla Ice Cream offering speed and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for.
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 Ocean 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 Outemu Ocean tactile switch is known for its unique sound profile, which unfortunately is not specified in the provided information. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is described as producing a high-pitched and clacky sound, giving typists a distinct auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound when typing, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be more appealing to you.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is not described in the information provided. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is known for its buttery and creamy feel. Typing on these switches offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The use of POK material in the stem and bottom housing contributes to the creamy sensation, making it a tactile delight for typists.
Considering the information available, the Outemu Ocean and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches offer contrasting experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Ocean switch lacks specific descriptors for sound and feel, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is characterized by its high-pitched and clacky sound as well as its buttery and creamy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and typing experience. Whether you opt for the Ocean or the Vanilla Ice Cream switch, you can expect a unique and satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, your choice should be based on your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prioritize a smooth and buttery typing experience with a high-pitched and clacky sound, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch would be the ideal option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force and are looking for a unique typing sensation, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
