KTT Vanilla Ice Cream vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) exemplify two intriguing options in the linear switch category, each with distinct characteristics. The KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is celebrated for its silky-smooth typing experience, thanks to the innovative POK materials utilized in both the stem and bottom housing, which contribute to a buttery, creamy feel. Its acoustics produce a high-pitched, clacky sound signature that can add a delightful auditory element to typing sessions. Conversely, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch presents a more robust experience with its PA12 top housing that lends a softer acoustic profile paired with a POM stem, delivering a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. Ideal for those who appreciate a more tactile typing sensation without sacrificing sound quality, the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a balanced blend of subtle sophistication and performance. Both switches have their merits tailored to different preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches present a fascinating contrast in both composition and resultant sound profile. The KTT Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a proprietary blend for its top housing that is noted for producing a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. The unique blend—referred to as "special mixed materials"—allows this switch to deliver an articulate typing experience that emphasizes bright acoustics. In stark contrast, the top housing of the Xinhai (Heavy) is made from classic nylon, known for its softer texture, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This fundamental difference in materials leads to distinctly different auditory experiences, with the Vanilla Ice Cream embodying a crispness while the Xinhai offers a more subdued resonance.
When examining the bottom housings, the differences continue to highlight the unique attributes of each switch. The Vanilla Ice Cream features a POK material for the bottom housing, which is noted for its exceptional strength and smoothness. With a coefficient of friction that outperforms nylon and a wear resistance significantly higher than POM, the POK material not only enhances the smoothness of actuation but is also designed to withstand long-term use without significant degradation. Conversely, the Xinhai (Heavy) employs a nylon bottom housing, which provides a softer feel but does not offer the same level of durability or smoothness as POK. The nylon bottom, while capable of contributing to a rounded sound signature, may not provide the same responsive, clacky feedback experienced with the Vanilla Ice Cream.
Ultimately, these contrasts in materials affect not only the sound profile but also the tactile sensations during use. While the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream combines the high-pitched qualities of its mixed material top housing with the strength and smoothness of POK in the bottom housing, the Xinhai (Heavy) opts for consistent nylon in both its housings, delivering a more cohesive, albeit muted, experience. However, should one seek a nuanced typing experience that merges the best of both worlds, mixing elements of these switches could potentially yield an exciting hybrid outcome. By adjusting the top and bottom housings across different switch types, it's possible to explore a range of tactile and auditory characteristics, leading to a personalized typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there is a clear distinction in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Vanilla Ice Cream features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a gentler touch that allows for prolonged typability during extended work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more robust and substantial feel when typing. While both switches serve distinct preferences—light versus heavy—the Vanilla Ice Cream is definitively the lighter option, providing less resistance for users who favor a softer keystroke experience. Conversely, the Xinhai (Heavy) is categorized as the heavier switch, catering to users seeking a firmer push feel. Overall, the differing weights of the two switches cater to varying typing styles and preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Vanilla Ice Cream slightly longer, providing a more pronounced depth when pressed compared to the Xinhai (Heavy). For users who prefer a deeper key press that tends to offer a more substantial tactile experience, the Vanilla Ice Cream would be the better choice. Conversely, the Xinhai (Heavy), with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to those who favor quicker, more responsive actuation, which is beneficial for fast-paced gaming scenarios. Overall, the difference in travel distances is minimal, but it reflects the distinct preferences between users who enjoy a bit more depth versus those who favor a more rapid response.
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 HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $3.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offers a distinctly high-pitched and clacky audio profile, characterized by its resonant and marbly qualities. This means users can expect sharp, crisp sounds that are clean and provide an immersive typing experience, akin to the clean tones of billiard balls striking each other. By contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch's acoustic characteristics are less defined, but it is crafted with a PA12 top housing which generally dampens sound, suggesting a softer acoustics profile. This difference hints at a more subdued auditory experience that may appeal to those seeking a quieter typing environment, even if specific descriptors for the Xinhai are not available.
In terms of feel, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch shines with its buttery and creamy typing sensation. The smoothness offered by the combination of POK materials results in a seamlessly fluid keystroke experience, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys—much like a silky texture that melts into each stroke. The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) lacks detailed descriptions regarding its tactile feedback, leaving its overall feel relatively unknown in comparison. This can be a deciding factor for users who prioritize not just sound, but also the physical sensation that each keystroke provides.
Considering both switches, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch stands out with its clear auditory and tactile advantages, providing a high-pitched, resonant sound and an exceptionally smooth and creamy feel. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a more muted sound profile with an uncertain tactile feedback experience. Therefore, choosing between them hinges on whether the user prefers the vibrant auditory and tactile experience of the Vanilla Ice Cream or a potentially softer approach with the Xinhai, which remains more ambiguous.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a lighter touch and prefer a smooth, creamy keystroke combined with a high-pitched, resonant sound profile, the Vanilla Ice Cream is an excellent choice. It's perfect for typists who value swift key presses and a delightful auditory experience, making it ideal for long typing sessions or fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, if you find a heavier keystroke more satisfying and enjoy a precise, yet softer acoustic profile, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch will likely suit you better. With its higher bottom-out force and distinctively crisp sound, it caters to those who appreciate a more tactile feedback and are accustomed to medium resistance. Ultimately, consider your typing style and sound preferences when selecting between these two switches, ensuring that your keyboard experience is tailored just for you.
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