KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Huano Caramel Latte

Overview

Mechanical keyboards offer an exciting variety of switch types, each tailored for different typing preferences, and the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Huano Caramel Latte are two standout linear switches worth comparing. The KTT Cabbage Tofu excels with its distinct tactility and responsive feel, featuring a lengthened 22mm spring that provides an impressive rebound after actuation. This allows for quicker keystroke transitions, making it an excellent choice for typists who crave an engaging experience dominated by a unique sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding—described as clacky, creamy, and silky. On the other hand, the Huano Caramel Latte combines a medium weight of 50g bottom out with a bright, clacky sound profile, delivering pure smoothness with each keystroke, creating a typing experience that many users find thoroughly enjoyable. While both switches are designed for linear typing, their unique auditory and tactile characteristics set them apart. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

Huano Caramel Latte Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

$3.00

$2.75 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Huano Caramel Latte, a notable distinction arises in their top housings. The Cabbage Tofu utilizes polycarbonate, which is recognized for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiffer structural properties. This rigidity contributes to a clearer and more resonant acoustic performance, making it particularly effective for applications involving RGB lighting due to its translucency. Conversely, the Caramel Latte features a POK (polyketone) top housing, notable for its smoothness and strength. While POK offers a slightly different tactile experience with its higher coefficient of friction, it excels in durability with wear and shock resistance that surpasses other materials. This divergence in top housing materials signifies that while both switches can provide unique auditory experiences, their sound profiles will differ based on the effectiveness and characteristics of the materials employed.

In contrast, when we examine the bottom housings of both the Cabbage Tofu and the Caramel Latte, we find that they share the same material: nylon. This commonality contributes to both switches producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon’s softer composition absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a classic material in switch design, nylon's acoustic properties help create a more rounded and satisfactory type feel, relegating its qualities to be felt when the key bottoms out. Thus, despite the contrast in top housing materials leading to different sound results during key release, the similarity in bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver a robust and pleasing typing experience overall.

Ultimately, the differing qualities of the top housings between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Huano Caramel Latte highlight the importance of material selection in switch design. While the polycarbonate of the Cabbage Tofu contributes to a higher-pitched sound profile that can effectively showcase RGB lighting, the durable POK of the Caramel Latte offers a smooth, resilient typing experience that promotes longevity. However, both switches benefit from nylon's capabilities in their bottom housings, ensuring that regardless of the top's material effects, a good foundation of sound and feel is established. This common ground signifies that users can still enjoy a satisfying bottom-out experience even amid the differences brought forth by the top housing materials.

Weight

The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch both exhibit similar actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams of pressure to trigger a keystroke. This similarity means users can expect a comparable experience when initiating a keystroke, allowing for extended typing sessions without undue fatigue. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly; the Cabbage Tofu has a bottom out force of 53 grams, whereas the Caramel Latte's bottom out force is somewhat higher at 55 grams. This means that while both switches are perceived as medium-light, the Caramel Latte offers a slightly heavier feel upon full depression. Consequently, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Caramel Latte, while users favoring a lighter touch may find the Cabbage Tofu better suited to their needs. Overall, the Cabbage Tofu is the lighter option in terms of bottom out force, while the Caramel Latte is the heavier switch, albeit only minimally.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Cabbage Tofu features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Caramel Latte has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that for those who favor a more responsive typing experience, the Caramel Latte switch provides an advantage due to its shorter depth, potentially allowing for faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who prefer a heftier feel and a more traditional keypress experience. In summary, if you prioritize quick responses, the Huano Caramel Latte will serve you better, while the KTT Cabbage Tofu is ideal for those who appreciate a deeper keypress.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Huano Caramel Latte linear switches, the Cabbage Tofu is characterized by its bright, clacky sound reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. This high-pitched and snappy auditory feedback produces a sharp tone that adds a lively aspect to typing. In contrast, while the Caramel Latte's sound profile is not explicitly detailed, it is known for being bright and clacky as well, indicating that users can expect a similarly engaging sound experience. The overall sound produced by any switch can also be influenced by the keyboard build and keycap choice, so both switches might yield comparable results in a well-matched setup.

In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu switches provide a creamy and polished typing experience. Their smoothness and luxurious sensation enable typists to glide across the keys with minimal resistance, and the switch design contributes to a snappy and responsive feel that enhances quick typing. The Caramel Latte, however, lacks explicit descriptions in this regard. Still, one could anticipate a smooth action given its reputation for a pleasurable typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users might find that both switches offer a delightful tactile experience even if the nuances of the Caramel Latte’s feel remain uncertain.

In summary, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Huano Caramel Latte linear switches present appealing auditory and tactile qualities that make them worthwhile options for typists. While the Cabbage Tofu's sound profile is distinctly sharper and more defined, the Caramel Latte is also known for its engaging, clacky characteristics. The Cabbage Tofu excels in delivering a silky, responsive feel, while the Caramel Latte's feel remains largely undefined but is expected to be smooth. Ultimately, both switches cater to those seeking enjoyable and unique typing experiences, making them excellent choices for newcomers looking for satisfying mechanical keyboard options.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Huano Caramel Latte linear switches boils down to your personal typing preferences and the kind of experience you seek from your keyboard. If you prioritize a tactile and responsive typing experience, the Cabbage Tofu switch could be ideal, especially with its medium-light bottom out force and unique sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles. Its lengthened spring provides a swift rebound, which can enhance your typing speed and fluidity. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smooth, buttery feel combined with a bright, clacky sound that adds a bit of character to each keystroke, the Caramel Latte may be the better option for you. With its medium-light bottom out force and focus on a polished feel, it ensures that each press is enjoyable without feeling overly strenuous. In short, choose the Cabbage Tofu for snappy responsiveness and a bit of auditory charm, and opt for the Caramel Latte for a luxurious, smooth experience with a pop of brightness in your typing.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn more

Huano Caramel Latte Linear

$3.00

$2.75 per 10

Learn more