KTT Rose vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the KTT Rose and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Rose and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Rose switch is praised for its progressive springs that provide a substantial yet not heavy typing experience, accompanied by a bassy raindrop sound. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the ingenious use of POK in the stem and bottom housing. This switch also produces a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While the Rose switch is categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is described as buttery, creamy, high-pitched, marbly, and resonant. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that appeal to different typing 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
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Standard
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
Progressive spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Rose and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream both contribute to the unique sound profiles of these switches. The Rose's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary blend top housing offers a higher-pitched and clacky sound signature. In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate top housing of the Rose allows for RGB lighting effects, adding a visual element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT blend top housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream is described as using "special mixed materials" to achieve its distinct sound profile.
When it comes to the bottom housings of these switches, the KTT Rose's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK bottom housing is known for its smoothness and durability, with excellent wear and shock resistance properties. The difference in bottom housing materials highlights the importance of material choice in creating the overall typing experience of a switch. While the Rose emphasizes sound depth and roundness with nylon, the Vanilla Ice Cream prioritizes smoothness and durability with POK.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the KTT Rose and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, both switches aim to provide a unique and satisfying typing experience. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a strategic balance of sound characteristics, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Rose or the smooth POK bottom housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream, each material choice plays a crucial role in shaping the overall performance and sound profile of these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Rose linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that they offer different typing experiences. The Rose switch has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream switch, which bottoms out at 48 grams. This makes the Vanilla Ice Cream switch lighter in feel, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing. On the other hand, the Rose switch has a heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. The actuation force of the Rose switch is unknown, whereas the Vanilla Ice Cream switch requires 43 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. Overall, individuals looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Vanilla Ice Cream switch, while those desiring a heavier feel may opt for the Rose switch.
Travel distance
The KTT Rose linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Rose switch has a slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more substantial feel when typing compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream switch. However, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and responsiveness. Both switches offer their own benefits, so users can expect similar results in terms of performance regardless of the slight difference in travel distance.
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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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
The KTT Rose linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile with a bassy raindrop-like tone, providing a soothing auditory experience while typing. In terms of feel, the Rose switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, striking a balance between gentle typing and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch boasts a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, delivering a sharp and crisp sound with a marbly and resonant quality. The feel of the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is described as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that feels effortless and uniform. Overall, the Rose switch provides a more neutral and moderate typing experience, while the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a more vibrant and immersive typing experience with its distinct sound and feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Rose linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. Choose the Rose if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a mild and polished feel, along with a low-pitched and neutral sound. Opt for the Vanilla Ice Cream if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a buttery and creamy feel, along with a high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics. Happy typing!