Bsun Olive vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Olive and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offer unique experiences for different preferences. The Bsun Olive switch is known for its tactile feedback and deep, resonant sound, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a pronounced and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing. This switch also offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, adding another layer of distinction. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Olive and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches offer different sound profiles and characteristics. The POM top housing of the Olive creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the KTT blend top housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream produces a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. In terms of the bottom housing, both switches have unique qualities. The POM bottom housing of the Olive contributes to a pleasing and unique sound profile, while the POK bottom housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream is known for its smoothness, durability, and clacky feel.
The contrasting features of the housing materials of the Bsun Olive and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches provide users with distinct sound experiences. The POM top housing of the Olive delivers a deeper and more muted sound, offering a different auditory sensation compared to the high-pitched and clacky sound signature produced by the KTT blend top housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream. Additionally, the POK bottom housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream stands out for its exceptional durability, smoothness, and clacky feel, showcasing a different set of qualities compared to the POM bottom housing of the Olive.
While the housing materials of the Bsun Olive and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches differ in their sound profiles and characteristics, users can expect similar results in terms of switch operation. Both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience, with the qualities of the top and bottom housings complementing each other to create a balanced sound and feel. Whether it's the deep and muted sound of the Olive's POM housing or the high-pitched clackiness of the Vanilla Ice Cream's KTT blend, both switches aim to enhance the user's typing experience through their unique housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it's clear that the Olive has a heavier feel overall. The Olive has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter switch. The difference in weight between the two switches is noticeable, with the Olive requiring a stronger push for both actuation and bottoming out compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream. This means that those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Bsun Olive, while those who prefer a lighter touch may prefer the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for quick response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users, but for those who are particular about the depth of the switch, the Vanilla Ice Cream may provide a slightly more substantial feel with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance and are suitable options for those looking for a tactile or linear switch with a shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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.
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 Bsun Olive switch offers a resonant, deep sound that is distinct and satisfying during use. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch provides a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets it apart from other switches in the market. The choice of materials and design of each switch contributes to their unique sound profiles, catering to different preferences for keyboard sound aesthetics.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Olive switch is described as having an accented tactile feedback that is invigorating and sharp, providing a satisfying typing experience with each keypress. In comparison, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a buttery and creamy feel that is smooth and fluid, creating a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The tactile experience of each switch is crafted to provide users with a tactile feedback that suits their typing style and preference.
Overall, the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offer different but equally appealing qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Olive switch provides a deep and resonant sound with pronounced tactile feedback, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a high-pitched clacky sound with a buttery and creamy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a pronounced tactile feedback and a deep, resonant sound, the Bsun Olive switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter linear switch with a light bottom out force of 48 grams, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and a satisfying auditory experience (Olive) or a smooth and creamy typing sensation (Vanilla Ice Cream). Consider your typing preferences and the overall typing experience you're looking for when choosing between these two switches.
Mentioned in this article
