Outemu Silver vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream

Overview

When comparing the Outemu Silver and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that they both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Silver is a linear switch that is best known for its fast response time and is categorized as a linear switch. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream stands out with its POK material used 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 Vanilla Ice Cream switch is categorized as buttery, creamy, high-pitched, marbly, and resonant. While both switches have their distinct features that appeal to different users, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Silver 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 Silver and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches, we see that both switches utilize unique materials for their top housing. The Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile that resonates clearly. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream uses a proprietary KTT blend top housing, which offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While both materials aim to enhance sound quality and aesthetics, the polycarbonate of the Silver emphasizes clarity and resonance, while the KTT blend of the Vanilla Ice Cream focuses on producing a distinct clacky sound.

Moving on to the bottom housings of these switches, we find another point of distinction. The Silver incorporates a nylon bottom housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature and sound-absorbing qualities. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a POK bottom housing, which boasts exceptional durability, smoothness, and shock resistance. The POK material's strength and wear resistance exceed that of nylon and POM, contributing to the smooth and clacky feel of the Vanilla Ice Cream switches.

Despite their differences, both the Outemu Silver and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches showcase a commitment to quality and innovation in their choice of housing materials. While the Silver prioritizes sound clarity and resonance with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing combination, the Vanilla Ice Cream emphasizes durability, smoothness, and a distinct clacky sound signature with its KTT blend top housing and POK bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and tactile feel, as both offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.

Weight

In comparing the Outemu Silver linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, the Silver has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's lighter 43 grams. The bottom out force of the Silver is also heavier at 65 grams, while the Vanilla Ice Cream has a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams. These differences in weight make the Silver switch more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Outemu Silver linear switch is 4 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Vanilla Ice Cream switch slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the Silver switch. The 4 mm travel distance of the Silver switch is more traditional, providing a deeper press feel, while the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a slightly quicker response time. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance for faster reactions, while individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the longer travel distance of the Silver switch. Ultimately, both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their respective travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Silver switch is known for its quiet operation and lack of a specific sound signature. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a high-pitched and clacky sound that sets it apart from competitors. The unique material used in the Vanilla Ice Cream switch contributes to its distinctive sound profile, providing typists with an auditory experience reminiscent of its dessert namesake. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and choice of keycaps.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Silver switch does not have a specific description available. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is praised for its buttery and creamy typing experience. The use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream switch creates a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation, akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. This luxurious feel adds to the appeal of the switch, making typing a pleasure for users.

Overall, the Outemu Silver and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Silver switch provides a quieter typing experience without a defined sound profile, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out with its high-pitched and clacky sound. In terms of feel, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a buttery and creamy sensation that enhances the typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver satisfying results, with the Silver providing a neutral option and the Vanilla Ice Cream offering a more sensory-rich experience.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Silver linear switch or the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a switch that is best known for its medium-heavy actuation and stability, the Outemu Silver may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you want a lighter bottom out force and are drawn to a switch known for its smooth and creamy feel, high-pitched and clacky sound profile, and innovative use of POK material, then the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch might be the better option. Consider how you like your typing experience to feel and sound, and choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what will enhance your typing experience the most.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Silver Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn more