KTT Vanilla Ice Cream vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the SP-Star Yanyu both offer unique features that cater to different preferences among typists. The Vanilla Ice Cream is a linear switch that stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the use of POK in both the stem and bottom housing. Typists who enjoy a high-pitched and clacky sound signature will appreciate the acoustics of this switch. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is also a linear option but is known for its delicate typing experience and crisp sound profile, making it perfect for extended typing sessions. While the Vanilla Ice Cream is characterized by its 'Buttery', 'Creamy' feel, and 'High-pitched' sound, the Yanyu is described as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Thocky'. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the SP-Star Yanyu switches both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a proprietary blend for its top housing, resulting in a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. In contrast, the Yanyu features a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing, producing a pleasant sound profile that leans towards the brighter side. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, they each provide a satisfying typing experience for users.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Vanilla Ice Cream incorporates POK, which is known for its smoothness, durability, and shock resistance. This material contributes to the smooth and clacky feel of the switches, making them a popular choice among enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Yanyu utilizes a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its bottom housing, which complements the top housing blend to create a cohesive sound profile. Despite the differences in materials used for the bottom housing, both switches ultimately aim to provide a durable and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Overall, the housing materials of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the SP-Star Yanyu switches highlight the importance of material choice in determining the sound and feel of mechanical switches. While the Vanilla Ice Cream focuses on a proprietary blend for both top and bottom housings, the Yanyu opts for a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE. Despite these distinctions, both switches aim to offer a satisfying typing experience with their respective sound profiles. Whether it be the clacky and durable nature of the Vanilla Ice Cream or the pleasant and bright sound of the Yanyu, users can expect quality performance from these switches.
Weight
The KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Yanyu switch has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Vanilla Ice Cream switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch requires a slightly stronger push for a more substantial typing experience compared to the Yanyu switch. In terms of weight, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is lighter overall, which may be preferred by those who type for long periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch's lighter bottom out force may still provide a comfortable typing experience while offering a lighter touch when actuating keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch with a 4 mm travel distance. The shorter travel distance of the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Yanyu switch may provide a more tactile and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a different typing experience, but ultimately will provide similar results in terms of functionality.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 an auditory experience that is sharp and distinct. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is described as having a crisp sound profile, ideal for those seeking a delicate typing experience. The Vanilla Ice Cream switch is more resonant and marbly, while the Yanyu switch is neutral and thocky. Both switches offer different sound experiences, with the Vanilla Ice Cream being more high-pitched and clacky, while the Yanyu provides a crisper sound that might appeal to users looking for a more subtle typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is known for its buttery and creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation. In contrast, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is described as mild and feathery, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced finger fatigue. The Vanilla Ice Cream switch is buttery and creamy, ensuring a silky feel while typing, whereas the Yanyu switch is more approachable and light, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Both switches offer different typing experiences, catering to users with varying preferences in terms of typing feel.
Overall, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch stands out with its smooth and creamy feel, accompanied by a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a more delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a smoother, buttery feel with a high-pitched sound or a more gentle, feather-light typing experience with a crisp sound profile. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience tailored to your specific preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch or the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it's important to prioritize your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a high-pitched and clacky sound with a smooth and creamy typing experience, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile with a feathery and polished typing feel, the Yanyu switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing style and what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. Consider your preferences carefully to choose the switch that will enhance your typing experience the most.
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