Kailh Box Royal vs. KTT Cabbage Tofu

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from. Two popular switches that offer unique tactile experiences are the Kailh Box Royal, a tactile switch, and the KTT Cabbage Tofu, a linear switch. The Box Royal is renowned for its incredibly sharp and binary tactility, making it perfect for those who crave a nearly aggressive tactile response. Additionally, its higher-pitched sound profile adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu switch provides improved tactility and responsiveness. Thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring, users will appreciate a swift rebound after actuation, enabling a quicker transition between keystrokes. Not only that, but the sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu switch is often described as reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, adding a unique auditory element to typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$6.25 per 10

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Cabbage Tofu, namely nylon and polycarbonate, have distinct differences in terms of sound and aesthetic appeal. The Box Royal's nylon top housing, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Cabbage Tofu's polycarbonate top housing, being a stiffer plastic, produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a great choice for RGB lighting enthusiasts. Therefore, if you prioritize a softer, duller sound, the Box Royal's nylon top housing would be more suitable, whereas if you desire a clearer, resonant sound and RGB lighting, the Cabbage Tofu's polycarbonate top housing is the way to go.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon for this component. As a classic switch housing material, nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound due to its softer nature. Consequently, both the Box Royal and the Cabbage Tofu offer a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound when pressed down. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, and in this aspect, the two switches provide similar results.

Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Cabbage Tofu lead to variations in sound and aesthetic qualities. The nylon top housing of the Box Royal provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Cabbage Tofu creates a crisper and sharper sound. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate adds visual appeal to the Cabbage Tofu, particularly for those interested in RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches share the advantages of nylon, resulting in a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound. Whether you prioritize sound characteristics or aesthetic preferences, you can choose accordingly between the two switches for your desired outcome.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both. This ensures that users will get similar results in terms of responsiveness and ease of typing or gaming. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box Royal is on the heavier side with 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Cabbage Tofu has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it lighter and suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch. The weight aspect is crucial since it affects the typing experience and comfort level during extended usage. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter switch would gravitate towards the Cabbage Tofu, while those seeking a stronger push feel would lean towards the Box Royal.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch, it is clear that the Cabbage Tofu has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Box Royal has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Box Royal may be preferred by gamers who desire faster response times, as shorter distances allow for quicker key presses. On the other hand, individuals who value a deeper and more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Cabbage Tofu with its longer travel distance. It is worth noting that both switches fall within the typical range of switch travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most common and 3.0 mm being the most shallow. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The subjective qualities of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch can be compared in terms of sound, feel, and overall experience.

Starting with sound, the Box Royal is described as having a relatively higher pitched sound profile. This means that when you press the switch, you will hear a sharp and crisp sound. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu is described as producing a clacky sound reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. Both switches have a high-pitched sound, which produces a sharp and crisp tone when pressed. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to feel, the Box Royal is known for its sharp tactile feel. It has a strong and crisp tactile bump that is prominent and can be felt distinctly with each keypress. In contrast, the Cabbage Tofu offers a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. These switches are designed to be smooth and buttery, providing a gliding sensation as your fingers effortlessly melt into each keystroke. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu is also described as snappy, meaning it is super responsive due to longer or dual-staged springs.

In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Cabbage Tofu switches offer different subjective qualities. The Box Royal provides a sharp, binary tactility and a relatively higher pitched sound profile. It is best suited for those seeking an aggressive tactile experience. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu offers improved tactility and responsiveness, with a creamy and smooth typing feel. It produces a clacky sound reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. Both switches provide unique experiences, catering to different preferences. If you are looking for a similar high-pitched sound, both switches can deliver satisfying results while offering their respective characteristics in terms of feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a switch with a sharp and aggressive tactility, the Kailh Box Royal is the perfect choice for you. With its sharp, binary tactility, these switches offer a nearly aggressive keystroke experience. Additionally, the higher-pitched sound profile adds to the overall feel of the switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers improved tactility and responsiveness, the KTT Cabbage Tofu is the way to go. The longer 22mm spring allows for a swift rebound after actuation, resulting in a quicker transition between keystrokes. The sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu is reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, offering a clacky and high-pitched sound. Ultimately, your preference for tactility and typing experience will determine whether the Box Royal or Cabbage Tofu is the better option for you.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn more