Durock Black Lotus vs. KTT Cabbage Tofu

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Cabbage Tofu. The Black Lotus is a linear switch known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision. It reduces housing and stem wobble, ensuring maximum typing pleasure. With a 55g actuation weight, it offers a substantial but not overly hefty typing experience. Additionally, the Black Lotus's unique light column provides in-switch lighting that is fully removable. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu switch is also a linear switch but stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness. Thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring, users will notice a swift rebound after actuation, allowing for a quicker transition between keystrokes. Furthermore, using the Cabbage Tofu switch creates a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your specific needs.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials used in the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Cabbage Tofu exhibit both similarities and differences. Both switches feature nylon bottom housings, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. Therefore, if you prioritize a switch with a rich, immersive sound experience, both the Black Lotus and Cabbage Tofu would deliver similar results.

However, when it comes to the top housings, the Black Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE blend, while the Cabbage Tofu incorporates polycarbonate. The Black Lotus's modified PC and UPE blend creates a unique and premium feel, although specific sound characteristics are not explicitly outlined. In contrast, the use of polycarbonate in the Cabbage Tofu's top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetics of the switch.

As mentioned earlier, the distinction in top and bottom housing materials affects different aspects of the switch's performance. Pressing down on the switch will primarily reflect the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing's material will play a more significant role in determining the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the nylon bottom housing may lead to similar typing experiences, the differing top housings of the Black Lotus and Cabbage Tofu will result in distinct sound profiles during key release.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch, it is clear that they have distinct differences. The actuation force of the Black Lotus is 55 grams, while the Cabbage Tofu requires a lighter touch with an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Cabbage Tofu switch would be more sensitive to keystrokes and potentially provide a faster typing experience.

In terms of bottom out force, the Black Lotus is heavier with a force of 63.5 grams, compared to the Cabbage Tofu's 53 grams. For those seeking a more substantial typing experience, the Black Lotus would offer a stronger push feel.

Considering the weight aspect, the Cabbage Tofu is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Black Lotus provides a heavier typing experience, which can be preferred by those who desire a more substantial and tactile feel while typing.

Overall, individuals who prefer a lighter touch and quicker keystrokes may find the Cabbage Tofu switch more appealing, while those who desire a heavier, more tactile typing experience would gravitate towards the Black Lotus. It is important to note that while the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two switches, both can provide satisfying results depending on personal preference.

Travel distance

The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The travel distances of both switches are equal, ensuring a consistent and familiar typing experience regardless of the switch chosen.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Black Lotus switch does not have a specific descriptor provided. However, based on its smooth feel and reduced housing and stem wobble, it is likely to produce a quiet and muted sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch is described as "clacky" and "high-pitched." This suggests that when pressed, the Cabbage Tofu switch will produce a sharp and crisp sound, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

In terms of feel, the Durock Black Lotus switch is described as "silky," "buttery," "mild," and "polished." This indicates that it offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. The Black Lotus switch is likely to provide a seamless and effortless typing sensation, appealing to a wide range of typists. Similarly, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch is described as "creamy," "polished," "silky," and "snappy." This suggests that the Cabbage Tofu switch also offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the snappy characteristic implies a more responsive typing experience, possibly due to longer or dual-staged springs.

Based on the available information, the Durock Black Lotus and KTT Cabbage Tofu switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Black Lotus switch provides a quiet and muted sound, while the Cabbage Tofu switch is clacky and high-pitched. Both switches offer a silky and smooth typing experience, but the Black Lotus is also described as mild and buttery, while the Cabbage Tofu is described as creamy and snappy. Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a smooth feel and reduced wobble, the Black Lotus is likely to be a suitable option. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more distinct and lively sound profile, along with swift actuation, the Cabbage Tofu switch would be a good choice.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider.

If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and a substantial actuation weight, while also enjoying in-switch lighting and reduced wobble for a maximum typing pleasure, then the Black Lotus may be the perfect choice for you. Its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, along with its unique light column, make for a satisfying typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and value improved tactility and responsiveness, the Cabbage Tofu switch might be more suitable. With its lengthened 22mm spring, you can expect a swift rebound after actuation, enabling a quicker transition between keystrokes. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu offers a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, which can bring a unique auditory experience to your typing sessions.

When it comes to sound, the Black Lotus remains unspecified, while the Cabbage Tofu provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. If you enjoy a sharp, snappy sound for each keystroke, the Cabbage Tofu can provide that crisp and bright auditory feedback.

In terms of feel, both switches offer silky and polished sensations, but the Black Lotus also provides a buttery and mild typing experience. The Cabbage Tofu, on the other hand, offers a creamy and snappy feel thanks to its lubrication and responsive nature.

Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Cabbage Tofu comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize a heavier actuation weight, reduced wobble, and in-switch lighting, the Black Lotus may be your ideal switch. However, if you prefer a lighter actuation weight, improved tactility, and a unique sound profile, the Cabbage Tofu may better suit your needs. Consider your desired typing experience, auditory feedback, and tactile preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn more