Durock T1 vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Durock T1 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock T1 and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offer unique typing experiences. The Durock T1 is a tactile switch known for its comfortable typing feel with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window. 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 use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing. The Vanilla Ice Cream switch also delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. If you're looking for a switch with a comfortable tactile bump, the Durock T1 may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a smooth and creamy typing experience with a distinctive sound, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream might be the better choice. 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
67g
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock T1 and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The T1 features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a proprietary KTT blend top housing for a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent polycarbonate of the T1 is ideal for RGB lighting, while the KTT blend of the Vanilla Ice Cream remains a mystery in terms of its composition.
In terms of the bottom housing, the T1 utilizes a nylon material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties, absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK bottom housing boasts impressive durability and smoothness, with wear resistance surpassing POM and shock resistance surpassing Nylon. These differences in bottom housing materials result in different sound profiles and typing experiences for each switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the Durock T1 and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches play a significant role in determining their sound profiles and typing experiences. While the T1 offers a sharp and clear sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound, the Vanilla Ice Cream provides a high-pitched and clacky sound signature with its proprietary KTT blend top housing and POK bottom housing for durability and smoothness. Regardless of their differences, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The Durock T1 tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch have notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force. The T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while its actuation force is unknown. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch has a bottom out force of 48 grams, which is lighter than the T1, and an actuation force of 43 grams. The T1 provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is lighter, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches have unique characteristics, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock T1 tactile switch is 4 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the T1 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream. A 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a deeper key press feel, while a 3.5mm travel distance is shallower, providing a quicker response time. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance for faster gameplay, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 Durock T1 tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral tone, creating a soothing rain-like sound effect during typing. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch provides a high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound profile, giving off a sharp and crisp noise while typing. Depending on your preference for sound, the T1 provides a more mellow and bass-heavy experience, while the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a cleaner and more sharp auditory sensation.
In terms of feel, the Durock T1 tactile switch delivers a stepped and accented typing experience, providing a subtle bump with a slightly more pronounced tactile feedback compared to linear switches. The switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel for an overall sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offers a buttery and creamy typing sensation, giving off a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This switch is designed to feel remarkably smooth and creamy, resembling the dessert it's named after.
Overall, if you prefer a quieter and more medium bump tactile switch with a polished finish, the Durock T1 is a great option. However, if you enjoy a high-pitched and resonant sound with a buttery and creamy feel, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream is a standout choice. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard world. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel during typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock T1 tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider your preference in terms of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more neutral sound profile with a stepped and accented feel, the T1 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a high-pitched, marbly sound profile with a buttery and creamy feel, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be more suited to your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for.
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