KTT Vanilla Ice Cream vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ both stand out as enticing options for enthusiasts, but each offers a distinct experience that caters to different preferences. The Vanilla Ice Cream switch is celebrated for its innovative use of POK materials in both the stem and bottom housing, resulting in a remarkably smooth and creamy feel, enhanced by a high-pitched, clacky sound signature that adds a playful quality to typing. In contrast, the WS POM+ is an all-POM switch known for producing a deep, satisfying "thock" sound and a buttery-smooth keystroke that many typists find deeply satisfying. While the Vanilla Ice Cream is ideal for those who appreciate a more resonant acoustics and tactile feedback, the WS POM+ attracts users seeking a richer, more subdued auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
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
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, distinct differences in their sound signatures stem from the unique properties of their top housings. The KTT Vanilla Ice Cream features a proprietary KTT blend that consists of "special mixed materials," which results in a high-pitched and clacky auditory profile. In contrast, the WS POM+, with its POM top housing, produces a deeper and more muted sound signature. This disparity highlights how the choice of materials influences not only the auditory experience but also the tactile feedback of each switch. While both switches aim to provide a pleasing auditory experience, they diverge significantly in tonal quality, emphasizing the importance of the top housing's material in shaping how a switch performs during use.
On the other hand, both switches utilize different materials for their bottom housings, which also play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch. The Vanilla Ice Cream employs POK material, known for its exceptional durability and low friction properties, contributing to a smoother and more robust experience. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, it creates a sound that resonates with a clacky timbre, enhancing the tactile response. In contrast, the WS POM+ utilizes POM material for its bottom housing, which leads to a sound profile characterized by deeper tones and a comparatively muted auditory experience. While the POK housing's superior wear and shock resistance elevate its performance, the POM material imparts a more subdued quality, showcasing how the bottom housing can significantly modify the sound and feel when a user bottoms out a switch.
Ultimately, the interplay between the top and bottom housing materials defines the overall performance and auditory experience of each switch. If the top and bottom housing of a switch differ notably, as is the case here, they yield mixed qualities, with each material contributing uniquely to the sound profile. The KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, with its lighter upper tones from the KTT house material and deeper, clackier response from the POK bottom, offers a distinctly vibrant experience. Conversely, the WS POM+ exemplifies a deeper, muted sound, owing to its consistent POM materials throughout. If users seek similar results with these switches, careful consideration of how the top and bottom housings interact can help achieve a tailored auditory experience that aligns with personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, we can observe distinct differences in their performances. The Vanilla Ice Cream switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer touch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the WS POM+ requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which provides a more substantial push feel for users who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Consequently, the Vanilla Ice Cream is the lighter option overall, while the WS POM+ is the heavier switch. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces suggests that users seeking a more delicate feel might gravitate towards the Vanilla Ice Cream, while those who prefer additional resistance might opt for the WS POM+.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, the Vanilla Ice Cream features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the WS POM+ has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that for users who prefer shorter travel distances, which can provide quicker response times, the Vanilla Ice Cream is the better choice. Conversely, the WS POM+ offers a more substantial depth with its longer travel distance, catering to those who favor a more pronounced keypress feel. Ultimately, while both switches provide a relatively shallow travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, the Vanilla Ice Cream is the shorter option by 0.1 mm.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 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 has a distinctive high-pitched and clacky sound signature that stands out in the mechanical keyboard space. The acoustics are resonant, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience akin to the clean sound of marble. This gives typists a unique and engaging listening experience while they type. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switch is characterized by a deep, satisfying "thock" sound, which offers a more subdued auditory experience compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's bright sound profile. The choice of materials and design in the WS POM+ fosters a pleasant, rich sound, making it suitable for users who prefer a fuller, bassy tone.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is particularly noteworthy for its buttery and creamy texture. The use of POK in both the stem and bottom housing creates an incredibly smooth keystroke that feels almost effortless. Typists can expect a silky sensation that enhances the overall typing experience, allowing fingers to glide across the keys with ease. On the other hand, details on the tactile feel of the WS POM+ are not provided, so it's difficult to draw direct comparisons in this aspect. However, it is important to note that feel can be subjective and influenced by multiple factors, including user preference and typing style.
In conclusion, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. The Vanilla Ice Cream switch excels in providing a high-pitched, clacky sound and a buttery, creamy typing sensation, making it an attractive option for those who enjoy a lively acoustic feedback and smooth keypress. Meanwhile, the WS POM+ offers a deep thock sound that provides a satisfying auditory experience for those who prefer a more subdued profile. If one switch's characteristics do not fully align with your preferences, considering a different switch can yield a typing experience that fits better with your individual tastes.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter switch that provides a high-pitched, clacky sound with a uniquely smooth and creamy feel, the Vanilla Ice Cream is an excellent option. It excels in delivering a buttery experience suitable for typists who enjoy a quick and lively feel under their fingers. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-light actuation force and a deeper, more satisfying "thock" sound, the WS POM+ might be more to your liking. Its all-POM construction ensures a smooth keystroke and appealing acoustic profile that appeals to those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, consider your typing habits; if you type quickly and prefer a lighter touch, go for the Vanilla Ice Cream, but if you enjoy a more weighted feel and rich sound in your keystrokes, the WS POM+ will serve you well.
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