Kailh Box Navy vs. KTT Cabbage Tofu

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Kailh Box Navy and the KTT Cabbage Tofu. The Box Navy is a clicky switch that is perfect for those who crave a heavy typing experience and enjoy the satisfying sound and tactile feedback of each keystroke. Its resemblance to the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s adds a touch of nostalgia to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu is a linear switch that offers improved tactility and responsiveness. With its lengthened 22mm spring, typists will quickly notice a swift rebound after actuation, allowing for a quicker transition between keystrokes. The sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu reminds us of the clickety-clack of Mahjong tiles colliding. While these general pointers provide a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Navy Clicky

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$5.50 per 10

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

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Housing materials

The Kailh Box Navy and the KTT Cabbage Tofu both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This shared characteristic means that both switches will offer similar sound profiles. The polycarbonate material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when the key is released. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to be more effectively displayed, making it an ideal choice for those looking to add customizable lighting effects to their keyboard.

On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Box Navy and Cabbage Tofu differs between the two switches. The Box Navy utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. In contrast, the Cabbage Tofu also features a nylon bottom housing, meaning it shares the same qualities as the Box Navy in terms of sound profile and typing experience.

When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent, as it directly influences the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the impact on the sound upon releasing a key will be influenced by the characteristics of the top housing material. Therefore, despite the different bottom housings, the overall experience when typing on the Box Navy and the Cabbage Tofu will be fairly similar due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch, there are notable differences. The Box Navy has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Cabbage Tofu's lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Box Navy switch requires more force to trigger a keystroke, providing a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Box Navy is even heavier at 90 grams, while the Cabbage Tofu has a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams. This indicates that typing on the Box Navy switch will result in a more substantial typing experience, while typing on the Cabbage Tofu will be slightly lighter. However, if weight is a consideration, both switches can provide similar results as they fall in the medium-heavy to medium-light range. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference, as some may lean towards the lighter actuation and bottom out force for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier forces for a more satisfying typing experience.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cabbage Tofu has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Box Navy falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a desirable choice for gamers or those who value faster response times. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu provides a slightly deeper keypress experience with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile. Typing on these switches produces a higher-pitched sound that is clean and sharp, reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound. Pressing these switches results in a sharp and crisp sound, similar to Mahjong tiles colliding. Both switches offer distinct and satisfying sound profiles, with the Box Navy providing a more resonant and crunchy experience, while the Cabbage Tofu delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound. Depending on factors such as the choice of board and keycaps, both switches can provide a satisfying auditory experience.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch offers a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile experience. These switches have a strong and crisp tactile bump that provides high feedback intensity. The actuation force and keypress feel are moderate to firm, resulting in a snappy and reactive typing sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch provides a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. The creamy feel is achieved through factory lubrication or specific materials, offering a smooth and buttery sensation. The polished switch has a refined finish, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. Additionally, the silky switch enhances overall smoothness and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The snappy nature of these switches is attributed to longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. Both switches provide distinct tactile experiences, with the Box Navy emphasizing sharp feedback, and the Cabbage Tofu focusing on smoothness and responsiveness.

Taking all the available information into account, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is best suited for those seeking a heavy typing experience with a vintage sound signature and strong tactile feedback. The resonant and crunchy sound, along with the sharp and invigorating feel, offer an immersive typing sensation reminiscent of buckling keyboards from the 80s. On the other hand, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is ideal for individuals looking for improved tactility and responsiveness, coupled with a snappy and smooth typing experience. The clacky and high-pitched sound, combined with the creamy, polished, and silky feel, create a unique and satisfying typing sensation. While they differ in sound and feel, both switches provide distinct and enjoyable experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. By considering personal preferences and the overall keyboard setup, newcomers can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience and enjoy the sound and feel of a clicky switch, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are a perfect fit for you. With a bottom-out force of 90 grams, they provide a hefty and satisfying typing experience reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. The resonant and crunchy sound profile adds to the immersive auditory experience, making each keystroke satisfyingly crisp and sharp. Additionally, the sharp and invigorating tactile feedback creates a reactive and immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with improved tactility and responsiveness, then the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switches are the way to go. With a bottom-out force of 53 grams, they offer a medium-light typing feel that is smooth, polished, and silky. The clacky and high-pitched sound profile adds a crisp and bright auditory element to your typing experience. The lengthened 22mm spring also allows for a quick rebound after actuation, enabling a faster transition between keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and desired level of force.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Navy Clicky

$5.50 per 10

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KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn more