Huano Acacia vs. KTT Cabbage Tofu
An in-depth look at the Huano Acacia and the KTT Cabbage Tofu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, both the Huano Acacia and the KTT Cabbage Tofu present compelling options for linear switch enthusiasts, yet they cater to slightly different preferences. The Huano Acacia is celebrated for its medium-light weight and generous factory lubrication, ensuring an excellent typing experience right from the start with minimal stem wobble. This results in a smooth and reliable feel that many typists appreciate. In contrast, the KTT Cabbage Tofu introduces a longer 22mm spring, which enhances tactility and responsiveness, allowing for quick rebounds after each key press. The sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu, characterized by clacky, creamy, and high-pitched tones, adds an auditory dimension that some users might find appealing. While the Acacia is ideal for those seeking a dependable and well-lubricated switch, the Cabbage Tofu could be the better choice for users who enjoy a lively typing experience paired with distinct acoustics. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Acacia and the KTT Cabbage Tofu are notable for their similarities, particularly in their construction and the resulting sound profiles. Both switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing, which is known to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of the material. This clear and resonant quality is further enhanced by the translucency of polycarbonate, allowing it to effectively support RGB lighting. Users can expect a similar auditory experience from both switches when it comes to the sound produced from the top housing, making either option appealing for those who prioritize clear sound output paired with aesthetic lighting effects.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both models consist of nylon, a well-regarded switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than its harder plastic counterparts, leading to a duller and rounder sound characteristic. This means that while both the Acacia and Cabbage Tofu exhibit sharpness and clarity from their polycarbonate tops, they will deliver a contrasting experience at the bottom, where the nylon material comes into play. This duality ensures that the user will experience a uniquely balanced sound profile, combining the resonance of polycarbonate with the warmth of nylon.
Overall, the combination of materials used in both the Huano Acacia and KTT Cabbage Tofu allows for a distinctive sound experience that showcases the traits of each housing type. While users will enjoy similar sound frequencies and brightness derived from the polycarbonate tops, the nylon bottoms will deliver a contrasting depth that will enhance the typing experience. Therefore, regardless of the subtle preferences one may have toward the brightness or depth in sound, both switches successfully integrate their materials to deliver a versatile and enjoyable auditory feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Acacia linear switch with the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch, both share the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a light typing experience that caters well to users who prefer longer typing sessions, whether for work or gaming. However, they differ slightly in their bottom out forces: the Acacia has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Cabbage Tofu is a touch lighter at 53 grams. This means that, although both switches are classified as medium-light, the Tofu requires slightly less force to fully depress, offering a marginally easier feel upon bottoming out. Therefore, if one is looking for a keyboard that allows for comfortable extended use, either switch would be suitable, but the KTT Cabbage Tofu would ultimately provide just a bit more ease at the bottom of the keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Acacia linear switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch, it is clear that they differ significantly. The Huano Acacia features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Cabbage Tofu extends to 4 mm. This indicates that the Cabbage Tofu has a longer travel distance, making it potentially more suitable for users who appreciate a more pronounced tactile experience while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Acacia can provide quicker response times, which is often favored by gamers looking for enhanced speed and efficiency in their key presses. So, if you prefer a more responsive feel while typing, the Huano Acacia may be the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a bit more depth in their keystrokes might lean towards the KTT Cabbage Tofu.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cabbage Tofu has an MSRP of $3.25 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cabbage Tofu for $2.75.
The Huano Acacia comes in at $3.39 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
When comparing the sound profiles of the Huano Acacia and KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switches, the Acacia remains relatively unknown in this regard, while the Cabbage Tofu is characterized by a clacky, high-pitched sound reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. This crisp and bright auditory feedback can appeal to typists looking for an engaging and lively sound experience. However, it’s important to note that the actual sound of each switch can be influenced by various factors including the choice of keyboard board and keycaps, making it ideal to test these switches in different setups to find the perfect acoustic match.
In terms of feel, the Acacia linear switch also lacks specific descriptors, whereas the Cabbage Tofu is noted for its creamy, polished, silky, and snappy characteristics. This implies that the Cabbage Tofu offers a smooth and buttery typing experience due to its factory lubrication and refined design, allowing for effortless keystrokes. The snappier response from its longer spring also enhances the typing experience, making it feel more dynamic and engaging. Users looking for a meticulously refined and responsive typing sensation will likely prefer the Cabbage Tofu over the Acacia.
In conclusion, while the Huano Acacia linear switch provides solid performance with its light weight and minimal stem wobble, it lacks detailed sound and feel descriptors making it harder to assess in comparison to the KTT Cabbage Tofu. The Cabbage Tofu excels with its unique auditory and tactile qualities, making it a more immersive choice for typists who value responsiveness and smoothness in their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches may cater to different preferences, and users should consider personal testing to fully appreciate the nuances in typing feedback they offer.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch, consider your specific typing needs and preferences. If you seek a smooth and enjoyable typing experience right out of the box with minimal effort, the Acacia switch is an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force, combined with generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, allows for a comfortable typing experience that caters well to both typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you prioritize a snappy, responsive feel with a distinctive sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, the Cabbage Tofu switch may be more to your liking. With its slight reduction in bottom-out force and unique 22mm spring that facilitates rapid key rebounds, this switch is especially suited for those who appreciate tactile feedback and quick keystrokes. In essence, your choice should align with whether you desire smoothness and simplicity or responsiveness and a more pronounced auditory feedback in your typing experience.