Bsun Pine vs. KTT Cabbage Tofu
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the KTT Cabbage Tofu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Pine and KTT Cabbage Tofu offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Pine switch stands out for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, making it a favorite for those who enjoy direct and no-nonsense tactility. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu switch boasts improved tactility and responsiveness, with a swift rebound after actuation that allows for a smooth transition between keystrokes. While the Pine switch is characterized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp' and 'Snappy', the Cabbage Tofu switch is labeled as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine and KTT Cabbage Tofu both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same material for their top housing, the differences in their bottom housing materials may impact the overall sound experience.
Both the Bsun Pine and KTT Cabbage Tofu utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, as its relatively softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. Despite having the same bottom housing material, the way the bottom housing impacts the sound profile when pressing down on a key may vary between the two switches, potentially leading to subtle differences in sound and feel. However, the overall typing experience on both switches may still be quite similar due to their shared bottom housing material.
With the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials split between the Bsun Pine and KTT Cabbage Tofu, the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced more by the bottom housing, while the sound when letting go of a key will be more affected by the top housing. This makes the housing materials of these switches crucial in determining the overall typing experience and sound profile. While both switches offer similar benefits from their respective housing materials, the differences in material composition may lead to slight variations in sound and typing feel between the Bsun Pine and KTT Cabbage Tofu.
Weight
The actuation force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch are the same at 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Pine is heavier at 65 grams compared to the Cabbage Tofu's 53 grams. This means that the Pine offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Cabbage Tofu provides a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches have a medium actuation force, but the Pine is heavier overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a stronger keypress. Conversely, the Cabbage Tofu is lighter, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch and less finger fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Cabbage Tofu linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of responsiveness, the Pine switch may be preferred by gamers for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu switch with a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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
When it comes to sound, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is known for producing a clear and crisp noise with each key press. On the other hand, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of the sound of Mahjong tiles colliding. Both switches provide distinct auditory cues, creating a satisfying typing experience for those who appreciate different types of sound profiles.
In terms of feel, the Pine tactile switch is described as having an invigorating and sharp tactile bump, offering a pronounced feedback and a snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu linear switch provides a creamy and silky typing sensation, thanks to its lubricated build and polished finish. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback, with the Pine switch leaning towards a more intense and responsive feel, while the Cabbage Tofu switch offering a smoother and more effortless keystroke.
Overall, the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch present distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch is characterized by a sharp tactile bump and clear-cut feedback, providing a no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu switch offers a smoother and more polished feel, accompanied by a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Bsun Pine switch with its 65 grams is a great choice for direct, sharp tactility and quick bottom-out. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch with 53 grams provides improved tactility and swift rebound after actuation. Additionally, consider the sound and feel profiles that suit your typing preferences, whether you prefer the sharp and snappy sound of the Pine or the creamy and polished feel of the Cabbage Tofu. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your individual typing style and preferences.
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