Jwick Taro vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Jwick Taro and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Jwick Taro and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offer unique typing experiences worth exploring. The Taro switches provide a cozy and tactile typing experience, with a snappy medium-level of tactility and crisp clacks. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream switches boast a smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the ingenious use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing. While the Taro switches offer a neutral and buttery feel, the Vanilla Ice Cream switches are described as buttery, creamy, high-pitched, marbly, and resonant. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on the specific typing experience you are seeking. 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
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
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 Jwick Taro and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Taro's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, while the Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary KTT blend top housing offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. In terms of aesthetics, the Taro's polycarbonate housing is translucent, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, while the Vanilla Ice Cream's KTT blend remains a mystery with its "special mixed materials" composition.
On the other hand, the Taro's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, while the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK bottom housing is known for its smooth texture and exceptional durability. The nylon bottom housing of the Taro absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, while the POK material of the Vanilla Ice Cream offers superior wear resistance and shock resistance compared to other materials. These differences in bottom housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience of each switch.
While the housing materials of the Jwick Taro and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream provide unique qualities to their sound profiles, the impact of each housing material is felt differently when typing on the switches. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer a combination of different housing materials that work together to create a distinctive typing experience, catering to the preferences of users who seek specific sound profiles and tactile feedback in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Taro requires a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's 48 grams, making the Taro the heavier option. The actuation force of the Taro is not specified, while the Vanilla Ice Cream has an actuation force of 43 grams, making it the lighter option. This means that the Taro would provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Vanilla Ice Cream would be better suited for those looking for a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their actuation and bottom out forces, with the Taro providing a heavier typing feel and the Vanilla Ice Cream offering a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for typing experience and comfort.
Travel distance
The Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is slightly longer than the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Despite this small difference, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are gaining popularity in the market. Gamers may prefer the Taro for its slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more satisfying key press feel, while those looking for faster response times may lean towards the Vanilla Ice Cream. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 Taro tactile switch offers a neutral profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, resulting in a versatile option suitable for various typing environments. The sound produced is described as acute and crisp, adding a satisfying auditory element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch stands out with its high-pitched and clacky sound signature, which can be attributed to the material choice in the stem and bottom housing. This unique sound profile sets the Vanilla Ice Cream switch apart from others in the market, providing typists with a distinct acoustic feedback while typing.
Moving on to feel, both the Taro and Vanilla Ice Cream switches offer a buttery typing experience, characterized by a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. The Taro switch features a snappy medium level tactility, providing a comfortable typing experience reminiscent of its subdued color scheme. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch's smooth and creamy feel, attributed to the use of POK material, offers typists a remarkably smooth and enjoyable typing experience similar to the creamy dessert it's named after. Overall, typists can expect a seamless and effortless typing sensation with either switch option, making them both excellent choices for those looking for a comfortable and satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience with their unique qualities. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile with moderate tactility or a high-pitched, clacky sound with a smooth and creamy feel, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience each individual is seeking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Jwick Taro tactile switch or the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, you should take into account your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a snappy tactility with a neutral sound profile, the Taro switches may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a creamy, smooth typing experience with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, the Vanilla Ice Cream switches might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision will come down to your personal typing style and preferences, so consider these factors carefully when selecting your ideal mechanical keyboard switch.
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