HMX Game1989 vs. KTT Cabbage Tofu

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and the KTT Cabbage Tofu present two compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a linear experience. The HMX 1989, celebrated for its deep and thocky sound signature, offers a satisfying keystroke ideal for gamers who appreciate tactile feedback without the clicky noise often found in other switches. Its design emphasizes a balance between depth and smoothness, making it a strong contender for those who value auditory and haptic pleasure. In contrast, the KTT Cabbage Tofu boasts an innovative design focused on improved tactility and responsiveness, featuring a lengthened 22mm spring that enhances rebound speed post-actuation. This ensures a snappier typing experience, perfect for fast-paced typists who thrive on immediacy and precision. Characterized by its clacky and polished sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles, the Cabbage Tofu provides a uniquely satisfying auditory experience. While both linear switches offer distinct benefits, it’s important to consider your personal preferences and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Game1989 Linear

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX 1989 and the KTT Cabbage Tofu both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which sets a foundation for a similar auditory experience. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffer composition, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This shared characteristic not only enhances the clarity and resonance of each switch but also makes them particularly suited for RGB lighting applications due to the material's translucency. Users can expect to achieve a vibrant visual experience alongside the appealing sound signature when utilizing these switches in backlit configurations.

In contrast, the bottom housing of both the HMX 1989 and the KTT Cabbage Tofu diverges in its material choice, as both utilize nylon. This softer plastic is instrumental in producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, due to its sound-absorbing properties that help create a rounder auditory experience. When a switch has a nylon bottom housing, the typing experience is notably different from one with a stiffer material, as the density and absorption qualities of nylon contribute to a more muted sound when the key bottoms out. Thus, while both switches share the same material for the top, the bottom housing changes the tonal quality of the sound produced during keystrokes.

Ultimately, the combination of both polycarbonate and nylon across the HMX 1989 and the KTT Cabbage Tofu creates a synergistic effect that enhances the overall typing experience. The polycarbonate top contributes crispness and brightness to the release sound, while the nylon bottom ensures a deeper and richer bottom-out experience. The resulting auditory profile can be described as layered and dynamic, with the polycarbonate's clarity offsetting the warmth of the nylon, offering users a pleasing blend of sounds regardless of the switch chosen. Thus, while the top and bottom materials yield distinct characteristics, they cohesively work together to deliver a unique typing experience.

Weight

Both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch share identical specifications, with both exhibiting an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. This similarity means that users will experience a comparable typing performance and force feedback with each switch. As both switches are categorized as medium-light, they are well-suited for users who prefer lighter switches that allow for extended typing sessions without significant fatigue. This makes either option ideal for those who use their keyboards in work environments or during lengthy gaming periods. However, neither switch offers a distinctly heavier feel for those who might prefer a stronger push sensation while typing. Consequently, both the HMX 1989 and the KTT Cabbage Tofu provide the same experience in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

Both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect similar tactile feedback and key press experiences when using either switch, as both require the same distance to activate. Whether you're typing or gaming, the consistency in travel distance between these two switches ensures a comparable feel, allowing for seamless transitions between the two if needed.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX 1989 switch offers a deep and thocky profile, which typically resonates with a more bass-heavy character, creating a satisfying sound that is often preferred by those who enjoy a richer auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, characterized by its crisp and bright tone. This makes it ideal for users who appreciate a sharper auditory feedback while typing, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. It’s important to remember, however, that the overall sound can greatly depend on the keyboard’s construction and the keycaps used, meaning that both switches could produce different sound signatures depending on their specific environments.

When it comes to feel, the 1989 is described as offering a unique typing experience, though the specifics are unknown. In contrast, the KTT Cabbage Tofu is characterized by a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. The extended 22mm spring allows for swift rebounds after actuation, enhancing responsiveness while delivering a smooth, buttery feel. The combination of these qualities results in a typing experience that feels effortless and fluid, likely leading to increased typing speed and reduced fatigue. Ultimately, the Tofu's snappy nature provides a lively engagement with each keystroke, contrasting with the HMX 1989's potentially different yet undisclosed feel.

In conclusion, both the HMX 1989 and KTT Cabbage Tofu switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The 1989 is favored for its deep thocky sound, while the Cabbage Tofu excels in a clacky and responsive auditory profile. On the tactile side, the smooth and dynamic feel of the Cabbage Tofu contrasts with the undefined experience of the 1989. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer booming thockiness or a more pronounced, high-pitched click along with a silky smooth typing experience versus the unknown qualities of the 1989. Both switches can deliver enjoyable experiences, yet each caters to different typist preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch, you should consider your specific typing preferences and the types of tasks you engage in. If you’re looking for a deeper and thockier experience, with a more muted sound profile, the HMX 1989 might be the better option for you. It's ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile response without the distraction of overly loud keystrokes. However, if you prefer a typing experience that is more responsive and lively, the KTT Cabbage Tofu is a great choice. Its creamy and polished feel, combined with the clacky sound profile, makes it particularly well-suited for both typing and gaming, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that enhances your overall experience. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize a rich, thocky sound or a snappy, clacky feel in your keyboard's performance.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Game1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn more