KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. HMX Canglan V2
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Canglan V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Canglan V2 embody two distinct philosophies within the realm of linear switches. The Cabbage Tofu is celebrated for its enhanced tactility and quick responsiveness, providing typists with a satisfying, snappy feel and a unique sound profile likened to the clacking of Mahjong tiles. Its longer 22mm spring facilitates swift rebounds post-actuation, making it an excellent choice for those who crave speed and agility in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX Canglan V2 switches offer a deeply satisfying thocky sound signature, crafted with a careful blend of materials to deliver both a smooth feel and a light touch, catering to enthusiasts seeking a more resonant auditory experience. Both switches appeal to different preferences: the Cabbage Tofu for its snappy precision and the Canglan V2 for its rich acoustic profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Canglan V2 switches, notable differences emerge, particularly in their top housing materials. The Cabbage Tofu features a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffness and translucency. This stiffness results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that is favored by those who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. Additionally, the polycarbonate's translucency makes it particularly effective for RGB lighting applications, allowing for vibrant illumination that enhances the gaming or typing experience. In contrast, the Canglan V2 utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its softer texture. This material contributes to a deeper and rounder sound profile, providing a unique auditory experience that can be more soothing for typists who enjoy a different tactile feel.
Despite the contrasting top housing materials, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, which is made of nylon. This similarity lends both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Canglan V2 switches a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs sound more effectively, which means that regardless of the differing top materials, both switches will deliver a satisfying and muted bottom-out sound during use. This consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing facilitates a comparable typing experience between the two switches, ensuring that users can enjoy a similar depth of sound profile even amidst the differences in their top housings.
Ultimately, the contrasting properties of the top housings between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Canglan V2 shape their unique auditory identities. While the Cabbage Tofu's polycarbonate allows for a brighter and more resonant experience, the Canglan V2's nylon results in a softer, more mellow sound. However, with both switches employing nylon for their bottom housing, they maintain a degree of acoustic similarity that ties their performances together. This shared nylon component ensures that regardless of the top housing's influence on sound resonance, users will still experience a pleasant typing experience marked by the full-bodied sound quality characteristic of nylon.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch, notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The Cabbage Tofu features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, classifying it as a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Canglan V2 has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a light switch overall. This distinction means that the Canglan V2 requires less force to actuate and bottom out than the Cabbage Tofu, resulting in a more effortless typing experience that can be appealing for prolonged use, especially for those who prioritize comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. Thus, the Cabbage Tofu is heavier, providing a more substantial feel, which might be preferred by those looking for a stronger push during typing. Overall, users seeking a lighter touch would benefit more from the HMX Canglan V2, while those who appreciate a firmer resistance might gravitate towards the KTT Cabbage Tofu.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it one of the more traditional options available, while the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference in travel distance results in a distinct typing experience; the Cabbage Tofu will feel more substantial and can provide a better sense of tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper key press. In contrast, the Canglan V2, with its shorter travel distance, is likely to offer quicker actuation, which is particularly appealing for gamers seeking faster response times. Thus, if you value a more pronounced typing experience, the Cabbage Tofu would be the preferable choice, while the Canglan V2 would suit those who prioritize speed and a more abrupt feel.
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 HMX Canglan V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Canglan V2 for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch produces a distinctive audio profile that can be characterized as clacky and high-pitched. When typing, users can expect a sharp and snappy sound reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, creating an engaging auditory experience that many find pleasurable. This higher-pitched tone can be appealing to those who prefer a crisp, bright sound during their typing sessions. On the other hand, while the HMX Canglan V2 is known for its deep sound signature, specific descriptors are not provided, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, it is often noted that the sound will vary based on keyboard construction and keycap choices.
When considering the feel of each switch, the Cabbage Tofu excels with its creamy, polished, silky, and snappy characteristics. The switch provides a smooth and buttery typing experience, likely enhanced by factory lubrication or specific material choices. Users will enjoy minimal friction and a responsive experience, thanks to its longer spring that promotes a quick rebound after actuation. In contrast, there is no specific descriptor for the feel of the Canglan V2, which leaves some uncertainty about how it may compare; however, it is known for a smooth and light touch, aligning somewhat with the Cabbage Tofu's tactile benefits.
In conclusion, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and HMX Canglan V2 linear switches cater to distinct preferences and qualities that enhance the typing experience. The Cabbage Tofu is well-regarded for its clacky and high-pitched sound along with an incredibly smooth feel, whereas the Canglan V2 is celebrated for its deep sound and light responsiveness. Although we lack detailed information on the Canglan V2's sound and feel, the overall impression suggests that both switches provide enjoyable experiences, albeit in different ways. If you prefer a more engaging auditory feedback with a silky typing texture, the Cabbage Tofu stands out; if a deeper, thocky sound intrigues you, the Canglan V2 may be more suitable, potentially achieving similar goals in the typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and HMX Canglan V2 linear switches, consider your typing preferences and the type of experience you want from your mechanical keyboard. If you lean towards a medium-light actuation with a noticeable yet smooth tactile response, the Cabbage Tofu is a fantastic choice. Its unique clacky sound reminiscent of Mahjong tiles adds an engaging auditory element, while the longer 22mm spring enhances typing speed and responsiveness, making it suitable for fast typists. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a thocky sound profile, the Canglan V2 might be your ideal fit. Known for its deeper sound and smoothness, the Canglan V2 offers a delightful typing experience with less resistance, ensuring effortless keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize responsive feedback and sound characteristics or a softer, more muted typing experience.
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