Gateron Type S vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Gateron Type S and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We're delighted to introduce the Gateron Type S, a flagship offering from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash." This linear switch revisits classic travel distances and molds, rejuvenating them with contemporary factory lubing techniques, resulting in a neutral and subdued typing experience with a weighty 65g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch stands out with its use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing, providing a buttery, creamy feel that mimics its namesake dessert. Additionally, these switches offer a high-pitched and clacky sound signature for a unique typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different 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
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
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
18mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Type S and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, one noticeable difference is in the top housing material. The Type S uses a nylon top housing, which is known to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a proprietary KTT blend top housing, offering a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While both materials aim to enhance sound quality, the nylon top housing of the Type S provides a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and more distinctive sound produced by the KTT blend top housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Type S features a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a POK bottom housing, known for its exceptional durability and smoothness. The POK material in the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers increased wear resistance and shock resistance compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Type S. While both bottom housing materials play a role in the overall sound profile of the switches, the POK material in the Vanilla Ice Cream enhances the switches' durability and smoothness, providing a unique typing experience.
In terms of overall impact on the switch's sound and feel, the housing materials of the Type S and the Vanilla Ice Cream create distinct characteristics. The bottom housing of each switch has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, with the nylon bottom housing of the Type S offering a deeper sound profile and the POK material in the Vanilla Ice Cream contributing to smooth and durable switches. Conversely, the top housing material has a more noticeable impact on the sound when releasing a key, with the nylon top housing of the Type S producing a duller and rounder sound in contrast to the clacky and high-pitched sound signature of the KTT blend top housing in the Vanilla Ice Cream.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Type S linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is lighter in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Type S has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, categorizing it as a lighter switch. This means that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch would be more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing periods without fatigue. In contrast, the Type S switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Type S 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. This means that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Type S. Shorter travel distances are often preferred by gamers for quicker response times, while longer travel distances may offer a more satisfying key press for some individuals. Both switches offer different experiences based on their respective travel distances, so choosing between the two depends on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Type S and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches will result in different typing sensations due to their varying travel distances.
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 Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Type S linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued acoustical experience, with a balanced sound profile that leans towards a deeper tone. This makes it a versatile option suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch provides a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that stands out from the competition, offering a sharper and more resonant auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Type S linear switch is known for its 65g bottom-out weight, providing a weightier keystroke for those who prefer a bit more resistance. However, specific qualitative descriptors for the feel of this switch are not available. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is renowned for its buttery and creamy feel, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience reminiscent of its namesake dessert. This switch provides a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation, making it a pleasure to type on.
In conclusion, the Gateron Type S and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Type S provides a more neutral and subdued sound profile with a weightier keystroke, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out with its high-pitched and clacky sound signature and buttery, creamy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Type S linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy key press and a neutral or subdued sound, the Gateron Type S may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter key press and a high-pitched, marbly, or resonant sound, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
