Zuoce Bubblegum vs. KTT Cabbage Tofu
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Cabbage Tofu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Cabbage Tofu both offer unique experiences for enthusiasts seeking a satisfying typing experience. The Bubblegum from Gold Grain stands out with its striking colorways and clacky feel, perfect for those looking to explore the innovative side of their hobby. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu switch provides improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring that allows for a swift rebound after actuation. While both switches are categorized as 'clacky,' the Cabbage Tofu offers additional qualities like being 'creamy,' 'high-pitched,' 'polished,' 'silky,' and 'snappy.' 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM+SL
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Cabbage Tofu, it is evident that they both feature nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its softness and ability to absorb sound. This means that typing on both switches with nylon bottom housings will result in a similarly rounded and duller sound when compared to harder plastics. However, since the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, there may still be subtle differences in typing experience between the two.
On the other hand, the top housing materials of the Bubblegum and Cabbage Tofu differ, with the Bubblegum featuring a POM top housing and the Cabbage Tofu utilizing a polycarbonate top housing. POM housings create a more muted and deeper sound profile, while polycarbonate housings produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the stiffness of the material. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. This means that despite both switches having unique sound profiles, the choice between POM and polycarbonate top housings will greatly influence the auditory experience when using the switches.
In conclusion, while both the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Cabbage Tofu feature nylon for the bottom housing, their top housing materials differ, leading to distinct sound profiles. The Bubblegum with its POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Cabbage Tofu provides a crisper and higher-pitched sound. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials also means that typing on each switch will result in a unique tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch present some differences in terms of weight. The Bubblegum has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. In comparison, the Cabbage Tofu has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Bubblegum more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Cabbage Tofu. Both switches provide a smooth linear feel, but the Bubblegum offers a lighter touch, while the Cabbage Tofu provides a slightly heavier keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Bubblegum's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Cabbage Tofu's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more traditional feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Bubblegum has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bubblegum for $2.30.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch, it is apparent that both switches are described as 'clacky', offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. However, the Cabbage Tofu switch also adds a 'high-pitched' element to its sound profile, providing a sharper and crisper auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bubblegum linear switch is characterized as 'bouncy', offering a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that gives a lively feel and rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch boasts a 'creamy', 'polished', 'silky', and 'snappy' feel, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced responsiveness. Typists will find the transition between keystrokes to be swift and effortless with the Cabbage Tofu switch due to its advanced design features.
In conclusion, while both the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both provide a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts. If a typist enjoys a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, the Bubblegum switch would be the ideal choice. However, for those seeking a more varied and sophisticated feel with a combination of creamy smoothness, polished refinement, silky typing sensation, and snappy responsiveness, the Cabbage Tofu switch would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that the user desires.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a lighter bottom out force and a clacky typing experience, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a bouncy feel and a vibrant sound profile, making it a fun and engaging option for keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and improved tactility, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch would be more suitable for you. It provides a creamy, polished feel with a high-pitched and clacky sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and sound.
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