KTT Vanilla Ice Cream vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the use of POK in both the stem and bottom housing. Typists can enjoy a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets it apart from other linear switches. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque are designed to reduce switch noise with stem railings and cutouts, providing a quiet and precise typing experience without the usual cushioned sensation of silicone dampeners. Each switch offers a distinct typing experience based on its unique characteristics, but diving deeper into their specific features will help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches offer distinct characteristics that affect the overall typing experience. The Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a proprietary KTT blend for its top housing, resulting in a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear features a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound for a duller and rounder sound. While both switches prioritize sound quality, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream leans towards a sharper sound, while the WS Silent Linear focuses on a smoother and fuller tonality.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream incorporates a POK material known for its exceptional smoothness and durability. The POK material offers a strong and wear-resistant quality that contributes to the overall smooth and clacky typing experience of the switch. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which complements the nylon top housing in creating a deeper sound profile with a softer impact on bottom-out sound and feel. Despite the differences in material composition, both switches prioritize durability and smoothness in their bottom housing for a reliable typing experience.
The division of qualities between the top and bottom housings of the switches further emphasizes their unique characteristics. While the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, the top housing contributes more to the sound upon key release. This allocation of qualities allows for a balanced typing experience that considers both the impact of pressing down on a key and the sound produced when letting go. Whether it's the sharp clack of the Vanilla Ice Cream or the deep thud of the WS Silent Linear, both switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback based on their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it is evident that there is a difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Vanilla Ice Cream switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option overall. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The actuation force for the WS Silent Linear switch is unknown, but it likely falls within the medium-heavy range based on the bottom out force. Depending on personal preference, the lighter actuation force of the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier bottom out force of the WS Silent Linear switch may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether a lighter or heavier force is desired for a specific typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switches is 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will get a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance. While some mechanical switches vary in their travel distances, both of these switches offer consistent and reliable keypress feedback with the same 3.5 mm distance. This makes them both suitable options for those who prefer a specific travel distance in their mechanical keyboards.
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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch is characterized by a more neutral, muted, and subdued sound, designed to minimize noise without compromising on responsiveness. Depending on your preference for a more resonant and marbly sound versus a quieter and more subtle one, the choice between these two switches will be influenced by the overall sound profile you prefer in your typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is often described as buttery and creamy, delivering a smooth and effortless typing sensation akin to gliding your fingers across keys with ease. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users, making it a versatile option for various typing preferences. Whether you prefer a more pronounced and luxurious feel or a more subtle and understated tactile experience, your decision between these switches will ultimately depend on the typing sensation you find most appealing.
Considering the subjective factors of sound and feel for the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch, it's evident that they offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a high-pitched and clacky sound with a buttery and smooth typing feel, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be the ideal choice for you. Conversely, if you prefer a more neutral and quiet sound alongside a mild and gentle typing sensation, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique advantages that cater to specific preferences, ensuring that you'll get a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, you should take into account your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a high-pitched and clacky sound profile with a buttery and creamy typing experience, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral and subdued sound with a mild typing experience that minimizes noise, the WS Silent Linear switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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