Jwick Semi-Silent Linear vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Semi-Silent Linear is renowned for its whisper-quiet topping-out sound and clacky bottom-out sound, offering a silky smooth typing experience that is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Neutral', and 'Mild'. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch from KTT stands out for its use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing, providing typists with a smooth and creamy feel that is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Creamy', and 'High-pitched'. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
62g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 housing materials of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Semi-Silent Linear utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream features a proprietary KTT blend top housing, which produces a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Semi-Silent Linear may provide a more resonant and clearer sound compared to the KTT blend top housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream.
On the bottom housing side, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear incorporates a nylon material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the typing experience. In comparison, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a POK bottom housing, which is known for its smoothness, durability, and shock resistance. The POK material offers a smooth and clacky typing experience while ensuring longevity and strength, making it a preferred choice for switch housings. Overall, the nylon bottom housing of the Semi-Silent Linear emphasizes sound depth and richness, while the POK bottom housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream prioritizes smoothness and durability.
While the housing materials of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches differ in composition and characteristics, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to diverse preferences in terms of sound and feel. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance of different sound profiles and tactile feedback when typing on these switches. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the high-pitched clackiness of the KTT blend, both switches provide a range of options for customizing your typing experience. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific qualities you prioritize in a switch housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it medium in terms of resistance, while the actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it lighter in comparison. The difference in actuation force means that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Semi-Silent Linear switch. However, both switches offer a relatively light bottom out force, which may appeal to users who prefer a smoother typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with some users favoring the lighter actuation force of the Vanilla Ice Cream switch for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier resistance of the Semi-Silent Linear switch for a more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7mm, which is slightly longer than the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch with a travel distance of 3.5mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may feel slightly more abrupt due to its shorter travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a balance between responsiveness and key feel, but the Semi-Silent Linear provides a touch more depth for those seeking it.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a subdued and neutral experience, with a dampened sound when pressed that is not completely silent but definitely more subtle compared to most switches. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch produces a high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound profile that is sharp, crisp, and clean. These differences in sound signature give users a choice between a quieter typing experience with the Semi-Silent Linear or a more audibly distinct one with the Vanilla Ice Cream. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a mild, snappy, buttery, and polished typing experience that is gentle, responsive, smooth, and refined. Conversely, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a buttery and creamy feel that is smooth, fluid, and uniform, akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. Both switches prioritize a silky sensation, providing users with a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience that caters to different preferences based on subtle differences in feel.
Overall, while the Semi-Silent Linear and Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles, users can expect a smooth and pleasant typing experience from both options. Whether you prefer a quieter, more subdued typing sound with a silky feel from the Semi-Silent Linear, or a high-pitched, resonant sound with a creamy, buttery feel from the Vanilla Ice Cream, both switches provide innovation and quality in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired auditory and tactile experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you value a more subdued and neutral sound profile with a mild and snappy typing feel, the Semi-Silent Linear switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound profile with a buttery and creamy typing experience, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound and feel when typing on your mechanical keyboard.
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