Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. KTT Cabbage Tofu
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Cabbage Tofu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a unique typing experience, you may find yourself torn between the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Cabbage Tofu. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that offers a crunchy feel with a more subdued sound profile. Typing on these switches delivers a slight bump and a quieter, yet unmistakably clicky, sound signature. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu is a linear switch that boasts improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring. Typists will appreciate the swift rebound after actuation, allowing for a quicker transition between keystrokes. When using the Cabbage Tofu, the sound profile resembles the satisfying collide of Mahjong tiles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Cabbage Tofu utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a similar sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound experience, as well as the option for attractive lighting effects.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Box Mute Jade and the Cabbage Tofu employ nylon. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic of nylon helps create a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. Consequently, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, as the qualities of the nylon bottom housing play a significant role in this aspect.
While there are similarities between the housing materials used in the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Cabbage Tofu, a notable difference lies in the impact each housing has on the sound when releasing a key. The top housing of a switch has a more pronounced effect on the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches plays a vital role in the distinct sound you would hear when lifting your finger off a key. On the other hand, the bottom housing's qualities are more evident in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. So, while the materials used in the top and bottom housings differ, each contributes to the overall sound experience in its own unique way.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch, it is clear that they offer different levels of weight. The Box Mute Jade switch is the heavier of the two, with an actuation force of 75 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu switch is relatively lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cabbage Tofu switch would be a suitable choice. With its lower actuation and bottom out forces, it allows for a smoother and more effortless keystroke. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions.
On the contrary, the Box Mute Jade switch caters to users who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Its higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a stronger push feel, delivering a satisfying feedback with each keystroke. This can be advantageous for individuals who appreciate a heavier switch and desire a more pronounced tactile response.
Overall, the choice between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. By considering the weight aspect, users can determine whether they prioritize a lighter, effortless typing experience or a heavier, more substantial feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is shorter, measuring 3.6 mm, while the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. However, both switches fall within the range of what is considered a standard travel distance. The Box Mute Jade provides a slightly shallower typing experience, which is favored by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu offers a slightly deeper travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and whether one prioritizes a faster response time or a more satisfying depth when pressing the keys.
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 Kailh Box Mute Jade comes in at $6.50 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 it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade provides a more subdued sound profile compared to the KTT Cabbage Tofu. The Box Mute Jade is described as having a quieter clicky sound, allowing for a clicky experience without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu is described as producing a sharp and snappy sound, similar to the sound of Mahjong tiles colliding. It is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a quieter clicky sound, the Box Mute Jade would be a suitable choice, while the Cabbage Tofu offers a crisper and clackier sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Box Mute Jade is described as having an accented tactile feel, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, it is considered to be a stiff switch, requiring more force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. The Box Mute Jade is also described as having a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu is described as offering a creamy and silky typing experience. This suggests that it provides a smooth and buttery sensation while typing. Furthermore, the Cabbage Tofu is also noted to have a polished finish, contributing to a sleek typing experience. The switch is described as snappy, indicating enhanced responsiveness, potentially due to longer or dual-staged springs. Overall, the Box Mute Jade offers a more tactile and stiffer feel, while the Cabbage Tofu provides a smoother and snappier experience.
Taking all the available information into account, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Cabbage Tofu offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade provides a quieter clicky sound, a medium level of tactility, and a stiffer typing feel. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu produces a sharper and clackier sound, a creamy and silky typing experience, and a snappier feel. It is important to note that personal preferences may vary, and the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on an individual's desired sound profile and typing feel. If a quieter and stiffer experience is preferred, the Box Mute Jade would be a suitable choice, while those seeking a crisper and smoother feel may prefer the Cabbage Tofu.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a clicky switch with a more subdued sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade is the switch for you. With its heavy bottom out force and slight bump, it provides a crunchy feel while producing a quieter clicky sound. On the other hand, if you prefer improved tactility and responsiveness, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is the better choice. Its medium-light bottom out force and lengthened spring result in a swift rebound after actuation, allowing for quicker transitions between keystrokes. When it comes to sound, the Box Mute Jade offers a crunchy experience reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. In contrast, the Cabbage Tofu provides a clacky, high-pitched sound that is sharp and snappy. In terms of feel, the Box Mute Jade delivers an accented and stiff typing experience with its prominent tactility and higher force requirements. It also has a polished finish, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu switch is creamy, polished, silky, and snappy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with enhanced smoothness and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for sound, feel, and typing style.