KTT Vanilla Ice Cream vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Jade are both linear mechanical keyboard switches known for their unique characteristics. The Vanilla Ice Cream switch is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the innovative use of POK in both the stem and bottom housing. It produces a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the WS Jade stands out for its bright metallic and resonant sound profile, achieved by a metallic insert in the stem base. Additionally, the WS Jade features a light diffuser for an enchanting RGB display and a uniquely creamy and smooth typing experience. While the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a buttery and resonant typing experience, the WS Jade provides a clacky and silky feel. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, it is evident that both switches offer unique characteristics. The Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary KTT blend top housing offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, while the WS Jade's POM top housing creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience through their distinct sound profiles.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes POK, also known as polyketone, which is renowned for its smoothness, durability, and shock resistance. On the other hand, the WS Jade features POM bottom housing, which contributes to its unique sound profile. While the POK material of the Vanilla Ice Cream prioritizes smoothness and durability, the POM material of the WS Jade focuses more on creating a pleasing sound profile that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum.
In terms of overall typing experience, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a crucial role in determining sound and feel. While the Vanilla Ice Cream and WS Jade may differ in their housing materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. Whether it's the clacky sound signature of the Vanilla Ice Cream or the deeper, more muted sound of the WS Jade, enthusiasts can choose based on their preference for sound profile and typing feel. Ultimately, understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help users make an informed decision when selecting a switch for their keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Vanilla Ice Cream switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. In contrast, the WS Jade switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who enjoy a stronger push feel may lean towards the WS Jade switch for a more tactile typing experience. The differences in actuation and bottom out forces cater to individuals with varying preferences in keyboard switches, allowing them to choose based on their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Vanilla Ice Cream for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the WS Jade. Overall, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal and will likely result in similar typing experiences.
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 Wuque Studio WS Jade comes in at $4.30 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 profile that sets it apart from other switches. The use of POK in both the stem and bottom housing contributes to a sharp and crisp auditory experience, perfect for those who prefer a brighter sound profile. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch utilizes a metallic insert in their stem base to create a bright and resonant sound signature. This leads to a unique and lively typing experience that is enhanced by a light diffuser for an enchanting RGB display. Both switches exhibit resonant qualities, with the Vanilla Ice Cream leaning towards a marbly sound, and the WS Jade emphasizing a clacky and resonant sound profile.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is praised for its buttery and creamy typing experience. Typists can expect a smooth and fluid keystroke, reminiscent of gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. This sensation is achieved through a combination of materials and lubrication within the switch. Similarly, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offers a silky and creamy typing feel, enhancing the overall smoothness of keystrokes and minimizing resistance during typing. The rock-solid bottom-out of the WS Jade switch adds a unique tactile element to the typing experience, complementing the creamy sensation.
Overall, both the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switches offer unique sound and feel experiences that cater to different preferences. While the Vanilla Ice Cream excels in providing a high-pitched and clacky sound paired with a buttery and creamy feel, the WS Jade stands out with a bright metallic and resonant sound profile, complemented by a silky and creamy typing experience. Choosing between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference for sound, feel, and any additional features that may influence the typing experience. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a premium typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, as well as a buttery and creamy typing feel, then the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and are drawn to a metallic and resonant sound profile, paired with a silky and creamy typing experience, then the WS Jade switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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