HMX SU vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the HMX SU and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX SU and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offer distinct experiences despite both falling into the linear switch category. The HMX SU is revered for its robust PA12 housing and T5 stem, delivering a sound profile that is subtly deep and less intrusive, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more understated typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch distinguishes itself with its innovative POK materials, providing a notably smooth and creamy tactile feedback that typists may find incredibly satisfying. The Vanilla Ice Cream's high-pitched and clacky sound signature also adds a playful contrast to the subdued acoustics of the SU. While the HMX SU might appeal to minimalists or office environments due to its quieter nature, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream can be a delightful option for users who appreciate character and a unique auditory 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T5
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX SU and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches present intriguing contrasts that greatly influence the typing experience. Both switches utilize distinct types of plastics for their construction: the HMX SU is crafted from nylon for both the top and bottom housings, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream incorporates a proprietary KTT blend for the top and polyketone (POK) for the bottom. Nylon, as employed in the HMX SU, is recognized for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile owing to its softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. In contrast, the KTT blend aims for a high-pitched and clacky sound, presenting a stark difference in auditory feedback.
When examining the bottom housing materials, even more differentiation emerges. The HMX SU maintains consistency with nylon for its bottom housing, ensuring a unified auditory profile of deeper tones while typing. Meanwhile, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream uses POK for its bottom housing, which is celebrated for its durability and minimal friction—attributes that result in a smoother typing experience. POK's wear resistance and shock absorption capabilities significantly surpass those of nylon, permitting a more dynamic interaction with the keyboard. Therefore, switching materials affects not only the sound signature but also the overall feel and longevity of each switch type, further emphasizing the distinct characteristics of each model.
Overall, the combination of nylon in the HMX SU and the mixed materials of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream leads to differentiated auditory characteristics and tactile experiences. The HMX SU excels in delivering a mellow typing experience, enhancing the overall warmth of sound. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream's blend seeks to offer a crisper auditory feedback with elements of responsiveness thanks to the POK material's smoothness and durability. Thus, while both switch types have their inherent strengths and unique profiles, using similar designs in switching materials ensures that typists can achieve satisfying results tailored to their preferences, whether they lean towards a fuller sound palette or a more lively and clacky feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX SU linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, both options cater to users seeking a lighter typing experience. The HMX SU has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream features a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This indicates that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is the lighter option overall. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience for long periods, making them ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. Despite their differences, users will find similarities in performance due to their relatively low actuation and bottom out forces, which contribute to a softer keystroke feel. For those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience, the heavier push feel of the HMX SU may be preferable, though it is still considered light in the context of mechanical switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX SU linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, the HMX SU features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream has a slightly shorter distance of 3.5 mm. This difference, though minimal, highlights the SU as the switch with the longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced keypress for a more tactile feel. Conversely, the Vanilla Ice Cream, with its shorter travel distance, may be preferable for users who seek responsiveness and quicker actuation, a characteristic that is often favored by gamers. Overall, while both switches have relatively similar travel distances, the HMX SU provides a deeper feel, whereas the Vanilla Ice Cream caters to those who appreciate a snappier experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the HMX SU and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches, there are notable distinctions. The SU switch produces a subtle, relatively deep sound profile that is likely rich and soothing, which can provide a calming auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream boasts a high-pitched, clacky sound signature that is both sharp and resonant. The sound from the Vanilla Ice Cream is described as "marbly," evoking the clean, crisp audio of two billiard balls striking each other—ideal for those who prefer a more lively and engaging auditory feedback compared to the deeper tones of the SU.
In terms of tactile feel, the HMX SU switch is characterized by its PA12 housing and T5 stem, known for providing a reliable linear feel, although specific descriptors for this feel are absent here. Conversely, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offers a notably smooth and creamy typing experience, described as buttery and silky. This is attributed to the use of POK material, which contributes to an effortless keystroke sensation. The creamy feel of the Vanilla Ice Cream allows for a seamless glide across keys, making it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a fluid and satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, while the HMX SU and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches may both fall under the linear category, their acoustic and tactile characteristics set them apart. The SU provides a more subdued auditory experience with a deep sound, making it a great choice for those seeking tranquility while typing. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream’s high-pitched, clacky signature offers a more dynamic auditory experience, paired with a smooth and creamy feel that enhances typing enjoyment. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, choosing between these two could lead to relatively different keyboard experiences, highlighting the importance of personal preference in the realm of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX SU linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, your choice ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. If you prefer a typing experience marked by a deep, subtle sound profile that offers a solid feel, the HMX SU might be your go-to option. Its PA12 housing lends a richer resonance that can be satisfying for those who enjoy a more foundational auditory presence while typing. On the other hand, if you're inclined towards a smoother, lighter touch and the delightful sensation of creamy key presses, then the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream is likely the better choice. Its POK material provides an incredibly buttery and silky typing experience, paired with a high-pitched, clacky sound that adds a lively character to your keystrokes. In short, choose the SU for a more subdued, richer sound with a solid feel, and opt for the Vanilla Ice Cream when you desire an uplifting auditory experience combined with a luxurious typing sensation.
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