Cherry MX Brown vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Brown and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offer unique typing experiences worth considering. The MX Brown is known for its subtle tactility and quiet typing experience, making it a popular choice for those looking for a gentle yet satisfying feel while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream stands out with its smooth and creamy linear feel, thanks to the innovative use of POK in its construction. This switch also offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets it apart from others. 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Brown and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches, it is clear that they offer different sound profiles. The MX Brown's nylon top housing absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary KTT blend top housing produces a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. This difference in sound characteristics can be attributed to the unique materials used in each switch's housing.
Furthermore, looking at the bottom housing materials of the MX Brown and Vanilla Ice Cream switches, we see another point of differentiation. The MX Brown features a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a POK bottom housing made of polyketone, which is known for its smoothness and durability. The POK material enhances the overall feel of the switch, providing a clacky and durable typing experience that sets it apart from the MX Brown.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Cherry MX Brown and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches serve to enhance the typing experience, they offer distinct qualities. The MX Brown with its nylon housing provides a softer and more absorbent sound profile, while the Vanilla Ice Cream with its proprietary KTT blend and POK bottom housing delivers a high-pitched, clacky sound, along with exceptional smoothness and durability. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience, albeit through different material compositions.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that the MX Brown has a slightly higher actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's 43 grams. However, the bottom out force of the MX Brown at 55 grams is heavier than the Vanilla Ice Cream's 48 grams. Both switches fall within the light to medium-light range, with the Vanilla Ice Cream being lighter overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Vanilla Ice Cream, while those who enjoy a slightly more substantial push feel may find the MX Brown to be more to their liking. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the MX Brown switch. Shorter travel distances are often preferred by gamers for faster response times, while longer travel distances can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, so choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness. Ultimately, whether you go for the Cherry MX Brown or KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch, both will provide a reliable and efficient 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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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 Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their bassy and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper and richer audio feedback during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches are characterized by their high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound, delivering a sharp and crisp auditory experience that sets them apart from other switches. The choice between these two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound, with the MX Brown offering a more subdued tone while the Vanilla Ice Cream switches provide a more distinct and lively sound signature.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Brown switches are described as textured, offering a tactile typing experience with noticeable friction when pressed. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches are known for their buttery and creamy feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is reminiscent of the dessert they are named after. Whether you prefer a more textured typing sensation or a buttery smooth feel will be a key factor in deciding between these two switches.
Overall, both the Cherry MX Brown and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a light typing experience with subtle tactility and bassy sound, the MX Brown switches may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a creamy and smooth keystroke with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, the Vanilla Ice Cream switches could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a keyboard switch that offers a subtle tactile feedback and a medium-light typing experience, the Cherry MX Brown switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and creamy typing sensation with a light bottom out force, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should depend on whether you prioritize tactility and modest sound feedback (MX Brown) or a smooth and creamy typing experience with a high-pitched sound signature (Vanilla Ice Cream). Consider your typing preferences and choose accordingly for the best keyboard switch for your needs.
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