KTT Vanilla Ice Cream vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Vanilla Ice Cream switch is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, as well as its distinctive high-pitched and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch stands out for its innovative self-padding design, offering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a quieter typing experience. While the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is known for its buttery and resonant qualities, the Zero Degree 0° switch focuses on providing a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, we find that both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials. The Vanilla Ice Cream features a proprietary blend for its top housing, resulting in a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, providing a sharper, crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the choice between the two would ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes POK material known for its smoothness, durability, and shock resistance. This material contributes to the switch's overall smooth, clacky, and durable feel. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature. The differences in bottom housing materials between the two switches highlight how material choice can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, catering to different preferences for typing experience.
Overall, while the Vanilla Ice Cream and the Zero Degree 0° both offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and durability. The proprietary blend in the Vanilla Ice Cream provides a distinct high-pitched and clacky sound profile, while the polycarbonate used in the Zero Degree 0° offers a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the POK material in the Vanilla Ice Cream's bottom housing emphasizes smoothness and durability, while the nylon in the Zero Degree 0° provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Understanding how each housing material influences the overall typing experience can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences.
Weight
The KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch's actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Vanilla Ice Cream requires 48 grams, whereas the Zero Degree 0° force is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Vanilla Ice Cream may be preferred by users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it allows for a less strenuous typing experience. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the heavier actuation force of the Zero Degree 0°. It is worth noting that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the overall typing feel and performance of a switch, ultimately catering to individual preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Zero Degree 0° has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their quicker response times. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing, the extra 0.1 mm of travel distance in the Zero Degree 0° switch may provide a more satisfying keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
The KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is known for its high-pitched and clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This distinct sound profile sets it apart from other switches in the market. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch focuses on silent typing, utilizing a self-padding design and dual-rail structure to absorb sound and reduce noise. While the sound qualities of these switches differ, both offer unique acoustic experiences depending on personal preferences.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Vanilla Ice Cream is praised for its buttery and creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke that feels effortless and uniform. The use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing contributes to this luxurious feel, reminiscent of the dessert it is named after. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch is not provided, so it is unclear how it compares in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch impresses with its smooth and creamy feel, as well as its high-pitched and clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch prioritizes silent typing with its innovative design features. While both switches offer distinct qualities, choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Each switch will provide a unique experience based on individual preferences and typing habits.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you value a light bottom out force of 48 grams, a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, and a smooth and creamy typing experience, then the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force, a focus on silent typing with a soft, elastic feel, and a design that absorbs sound and reduces noise, then the Zero Degree 0° switch may better suit your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which characteristics align best with your typing style and preferences.
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