Akko Botany vs. KTT Cabbage Tofu
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the KTT Cabbage Tofu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between various options that cater to different typing experiences. The Akko Botany switch stands out for its crisp and lively clacky sound, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate an auditory feedback while typing. This linear switch is designed to provide smooth keystrokes without any tactile bump, appealing to gamers and typists who favor a consistent feel. On the other hand, the KTT Cabbage Tofu also presents itself as a linear option but takes the experience up a notch with its improved tactility and responsiveness. Thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring, users will notice a swift rebound after actuation, which results in a quick transition between keystrokes—perfect for fast typists. The sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu is reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, offering a unique auditory experience that is both high-pitched and polished. While both switches cater to linear preferences, their distinct sound profiles and performance characteristics set them apart. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon Pro
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The Akko Botany and KTT Cabbage Tofu switches present a notable contrast in their top housing materials. The Botany features a nylon top housing, which is characterized as a classic switch housing material. This nylon construction contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials. Consequently, the sound generated when typing on the Botany switches is duller and rounder, creating a more subdued auditory experience. In contrast, the KTT Cabbage Tofu utilises polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for delivering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate results in a clearer and more resonant sound, making it a preferred choice for those who desire a more articulate and vibrant typing experience.
When examining the bottom housing of both switches, similarities emerge. Both the Akko Botany and the KTT Cabbage Tofu utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which reinforces the deeper and fuller sound characteristic associated with nylon materials. Given that the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the use of nylon in both instances ensures consistency in this aspect. Consequently, despite the differences in top housing materials—which lead to distinctly different sound profiles—the nylon bottom housing ties the two switches together by promoting a similar auditory experience when bottoming out.
In essence, the differing top housing compositions of the Botany and Cabbage Tofu result in contrasting sound profiles, with the nylon providing a rich, muted tone and polycarbonate offering a clearer, punchier sound. However, the shared nylon bottom housing between both switches ensures that the overall sound experience retains a fullness that can be appreciated in both cases. When engaged, the dual qualities of the materials manifest into a balanced auditory result, where each type of material plays a role in shaping the sound experience during the typing process. Thus, even with their distinct top housings, users can anticipate a certain level of depth and fullness in the sound due to the commonality found in the bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying user preferences. The Botany switch features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for long hours of use. In contrast, the Cabbage Tofu comes with a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some typists may favor for its tactile feedback. Ultimately, while both switches will deliver satisfying performance for different styles of typing, the Akko Botany is the lighter option, making it more suitable for prolonged tasks, whereas the KTT Cabbage Tofu offers a slightly heavier experience that may appeal to those who appreciate a firmer keypress.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch, the Akko Botany stands out with a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Cabbage Tofu features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference suggests that the Botany switch may offer a more responsive feel, making it an appealing choice for gamers seeking quicker actuation times. Conversely, the longer 4 mm travel distance of the Cabbage Tofu may provide a more satisfying depth for users who prefer a pronounced tactile experience when pressing their keys. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth, as both have distinct attributes shaped by their travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Botany has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Botany for $3.11.
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.
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 Akko Botany switches produce a lively and crisp clacky sound, appealing to those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing. This bright and percussive sound gives an energetic character to the typing experience, making each keystroke feel distinctly satisfying. On the other hand, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switches create a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, which adds a unique charm to their acoustic output. Described as high-pitched and clacky, they deliver a sharp and snappy sound, ensuring that typists can enjoy an engaging auditory experience as they type.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Botany switches have not been explicitly described, so their tactile response remains unknown. In contrast, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switches offer a plethora of positive sensations, characterized as creamy, polished, and silky, all contributing to a smooth and refined typing experience. The factory lubing likely enhances this buttery feel, reducing friction and making every key press feel seamless. Additionally, the snappy nature of the Cabbage Tofu provides a heightened responsiveness, thanks to a longer 22mm spring that allows for quicker rebound after actuation, resulting in a dynamic and lively typing experience.
In summary, while the Akko Botany switches bring a crisp and lively sound profile, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switches offer a distinct auditory experience that is sharp and reminiscent of Mahjong tiles. Feel-wise, the Botany's characteristics are unspecified, but the Cabbage Tofu excels with its creamy, polished, silky, and snappy feedback, making for an exceptionally smooth and responsive typing experience. Therefore, choosing between these two switches can be a matter of preference; if sound is your priority, both switches could deliver satisfying auditory feedback, while the Cabbage Tofu clearly stands out in terms of tactile pleasure.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter touch and a vibrant auditory experience, the Botany switch is an excellent choice, offering a low bottom-out force of 45 grams combined with a crisp, clacky sound that brings a lively atmosphere to your typing. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more playful and engaging sound profile, as it produces a characteristically high-pitched tone that’s perfect for both casual typing and gaming scenarios. Conversely, if you seek enhanced tactile feedback and a more substantial feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch's medium-light 53 grams bottom-out force makes it an attractive option. It not only delivers a creamy, smooth typing experience but also features an impressive swift rebound thanks to its longer spring. This can help you enjoy rapid keystrokes with greater agility, making it a solid pick for typists who value responsiveness and a more refined touch. By considering these characteristics, you can align your switch choice with your specific needs and preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience tailored just for you.
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