KTT Vanilla Ice Cream vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and KTT Wine Red are both linear switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Vanilla Ice Cream switch is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the innovative use of POK in the stem and bottom housing. Typists can enjoy a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets these switches apart from others. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch provides a pillowy light typing experience with a deep and rich sound profile. While the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is characterized as 'buttery', 'creamy', 'high-pitched', 'marbly', and 'resonant', the Wine Red switch is labeled as 'bassy' and 'low-pitched'. Each switch has its own 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
43g
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and KTT Wine Red, it is clear that they both prioritize a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. However, the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a proprietary blend of materials for its top housing, which offers a unique sound profile, while the Wine Red's top housing is made of polycarbonate, known for creating a sharp and crisp sound profile. The use of different materials results in subtle differences in sound characteristics between the two switches, with the Vanilla Ice Cream potentially offering a more distinct and customized sound compared to the more standard polycarbonate material used in the Wine Red.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream features a POK bottom housing known for its smoothness, durability, and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Wine Red utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, contributing to the overall sharp and clear sound profile of the switch. While both materials offer durability and smoothness, the POK material in the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may provide a slightly different tactile experience compared to the polycarbonate in the Wine Red switch. Ultimately, the bottom housing material can significantly impact the feel and sound of a switch, making it an important consideration for keyboard enthusiasts.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and Wine Red switches may differ, they both play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound signatures and durable materials. Whether the housing materials are the same or different, keyboard enthusiasts can expect a high-quality and customizable typing experience from both the Vanilla Ice Cream and Wine Red switches.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it is evident that the Vanilla Ice Cream is lighter in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Vanilla Ice Cream has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Wine Red has an actuation force of 44 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The difference in actuation force is minimal, with the Wine Red being slightly heavier. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Wine Red requires more pressure to fully press the key. Both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for extended use without causing fatigue. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Vanilla Ice Cream, while those who enjoy a slightly more substantial feel may lean towards the Wine Red.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, we find that the Vanilla Ice Cream has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wine Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of typical travel distances, with 4 mm being more traditional, the difference of 0.5 mm may be noticeable to some users. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Vanilla Ice Cream, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the longer travel distance of the Wine Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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 KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offers a high-pitched and clacky sound, providing typists with a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch delivers a deep and rich sound profile, characterized by a bassy and low-pitched tone. Depending on personal preference, typists can choose between the high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound of the Vanilla Ice Cream switch or the bassy and low-pitched sound of the Wine Red switch. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offers a smooth and creamy typing experience. The use of POK in both the stem and bottom housing contributes to a buttery and creamy feel, allowing typists to enjoy a seamless and uniform typing sensation. On the other hand, the feel of the KTT Wine Red linear switch is not specified in the provided information. Typists who prefer a buttery and creamy typing experience may find the Vanilla Ice Cream switch more appealing for its smooth and effortless keystroke sensation.
Overall, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch each offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. Choosing between the two switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences in sound profile and typing experience. Typists looking for a high-pitched and clacky sound with a creamy and buttery feel may opt for the Vanilla Ice Cream switch, while those seeking a deep and rich sound profile may prefer the Wine Red switch. Regardless of the choice, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a high-pitched and clacky sound profile with a smooth and creamy keystroke experience, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and richer sound profile with a pillowy light typing feel, the Wine Red switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and typing experience.
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