Outemu Tom vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Tom and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offer distinct typing experiences for users. The Outemu Tom is a tactile switch that provides a responsive feedback with each keypress, making it ideal for those who prefer a bit of resistance and feedback while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream is a linear switch that stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the innovative use of POK in both the stem and bottom housing. This unique material choice not only offers a pleasant typing experience but also produces a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While the Tom appeals to those looking for tactile feedback, the Vanilla Ice Cream caters to typists who prioritize smoothness and sound quality. 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
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Tom and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Tom features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's KTT blend top housing that offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. However, both switches have distinct qualities that make them stand out. The Tom's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK bottom housing offers smooth and durable qualities.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Outemu Tom and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, both switches have their own set of advantages. The polycarbonate top housing in the Tom allows for a clear and resonant sound profile, perfect for RGB lighting setups. On the other hand, the proprietary KTT blend top housing in the Vanilla Ice Cream emphasizes high-pitched and clacky sound signatures. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing in the Tom absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder profile, while the POK bottom housing in the Vanilla Ice Cream contributes to smooth and durable switches with exceptional wear resistance.
Overall, the housing materials used in the Outemu Tom and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream play a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of the switches. The top housing material influences the sound profile when pressing down on a key, while the bottom housing material impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Tom or the smooth POK bottom housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream, each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch which has an actuation force of 43 grams, making the Tom heavier. However, the bottom out force for the Tom is unknown while the Vanilla Ice Cream has a bottom out force of 48 grams, which is lighter. When considering the weight of the switches, the Tom may be preferred by those who like a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, while the Vanilla Ice Cream could be ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch to allow for longer typing or gaming sessions. In terms of actuation force, the Tom requires more force to trigger a keystroke, while the Vanilla Ice Cream is lighter in this aspect. Both switches provide different options for users based on their preferences, with the lighter Vanilla Ice Cream offering a more effortless typing experience, while the heavier Tom provides a more pronounced tactile feel.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, we find that the Tom has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Vanilla Ice Cream has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Vanilla Ice Cream has a slightly longer travel distance than the Tom. This means that when pressing down on a key with the Vanilla Ice Cream switch, you will feel that extra 0.2 mm of distance compared to the Tom switch. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference regarding the feel of the switch when typing or gaming.
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 Tom 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 Tom tactile switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, making it difficult to accurately compare to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch. However, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is known for producing a high-pitched and clacky sound that sets it apart from other switches. The KTT switch offers a unique auditory experience that typists may find satisfying if they enjoy a sharp and crisp sound profile.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Tom also lacks a specified descriptor for comparison. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is described as providing a smooth and creamy typing experience. The use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing contributes to this buttery sensation, allowing typists to glide their fingers effortlessly across the keys with each keystroke.
In conclusion, the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the specific descriptors for the Tom switch are unknown, it is clear that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch excels in providing a high-pitched and clacky sound, along with a buttery and creamy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with typists likely to achieve different but equally satisfying results with each option.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a switch with a light bottom out force of 48 grams and a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is the way to go. Its innovative use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing provides a smooth and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a switch with a certain bottom out force and a different sound profile, the Tom tactile switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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