KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. HMX Caramel Pudding
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Caramel Pudding switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Caramel Pudding both stand out as popular linear options, each catering to different typing preferences and experiences. The Cabbage Tofu switch is renowned for its enhanced tactility and responsiveness, featuring a 22mm spring that facilitates a quick rebound after each keystroke, making it an excellent choice for typists seeking speed and precision. Its unique sound profile, likened to the clattering of Mahjong tiles, adds an auditory charm that appeals to many users. On the other hand, the Caramel Pudding switch is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth feel, accompanied by a resonant and clacky sound that enhances the typing experience. This switch prioritizes fluidity, making it ideal for those who prefer a more seamless keystroke without sacrificing auditory satisfaction. While both switches offer their own compelling benefits—speed and responsiveness in the Cabbage Tofu versus smoothness and sound in the Caramel Pudding—choosing the right one ultimately depends on individual typing preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Caramel Pudding, a distinct contrast arises between their top housings. The Cabbage Tofu features a polycarbonate top housing that delivers a sharper, crisper sound profile, characterized by its rigidity. This material allows for a clearer sound when pressed and releases, particularly because of its translucent nature that enhances RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Caramel Pudding’s top housing is composed of nylon, known for its softer texture and fuller sound profile. The nylon material absorbs sound more effectively than polycarbonate, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience. This fundamental difference results in varying auditory aesthetics when using these switches, as the Cabbage Tofu is likely to project a more vibrant and bright sound, while the Caramel Pudding offers a warmer, subdued audio output.
Both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and HMX Caramel Pudding switches share a commonality in their bottom housing material, utilizing nylon in both cases. This agreement on bottom housing introduces a deeper and fuller sound profile across both switches. Since nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs sound more effectively than harder alternatives, resulting in a similar auditory experience when bottoming out. The impact is pronounced when pressure is applied, as this material contributes to the overall tactile response and sound quality of both switches when they reach their lowest point. Therefore, while the top housings diverge significantly in their contributions to sound and aesthetic, their matching bottom housings bring a unified depth and roundness to the act of typing.
Ultimately, the differences in sound profiles and tactile feelings arise primarily from the contrasting materials used in the top housings of the two switches. While the nylon bottom housing remains consistent in both, the unique properties of polycarbonate and nylon in the top housings shape the experience dramatically. Users who appreciate a more acute sound may prefer the KTT Cabbage Tofu, whereas those drawn to a fuller acoustic experience may favor the HMX Caramel Pudding. In this way, the variations between the switches illuminate how the choice of materials can exceedingly influence the performance and sensory gratification of mechanical keyboards, regardless of their shared elements.
Weight
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and HMX Caramel Pudding linear switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means that users will experience a similar level of resistance when pressing the keys to trigger a keystroke. This makes both switches ideal for users who prefer a medium-light feel, allowing for comfortable typing over extended periods without significant strain. However, when it comes to bottom out forces, the Cabbage Tofu has a slightly higher bottom out force of 53 grams compared to the Caramel Pudding's 52 grams. This marginal difference suggests that the Cabbage Tofu may feel a touch firmer when bottoming out, offering a slightly more substantial typing experience, while the Caramel Pudding remains a bit lighter in overall feel. Ultimately, both switches cater well to users who appreciate a balanced combination of actuation and bottom out forces, but those seeking a more robust bottoming experience might prefer the Cabbage Tofu.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch, the Cabbage Tofu stands out with a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Caramel Pudding has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Cabbage Tofu provides a more pronounced key press, which some users may find preferable for its hearty depth and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Caramel Pudding, with its reduced travel distance, caters to those seeking quicker response times, a feature often favored by gamers. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches can depend on personal preference: if you enjoy a more substantial key feel, the Cabbage Tofu would be the better option, whereas if rapid actuation is your priority, the shorter travel distance of the Caramel Pudding may be ideal.
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 Caramel Pudding has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Caramel Pudding 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch exhibits a distinctive profile that captures a clacky and high-pitched tonal quality, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. This creates a crisp, sharp, and percussive feedback that is notably engaging for typists who appreciate auditory cues during their typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch offers an unspecified sound signature, leaving its auditory characteristics less defined. However, it is worth noting that sound perception can vary significantly due to factors such as the keyboard construction and keycap materials used, which could influence the overall auditory experience with both switches.
In terms of feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu shines with a typing experience that is creamy, polished, silky, and snappy. The use of a lengthened 22mm spring enhances the responsiveness and provides a buttery smooth glide across the keys, thanks to effective factory lubrication. The combination of these feel descriptors suggests a refined and fluid typing experience that encourages quick and precise keystrokes. Unfortunately, the HMX Caramel Pudding does not provide any details about its feel characteristics, making it difficult to assess how it compares on this front.
In summary, while the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch presents a well-defined auditory profile and a highly enjoyable tactile experience, the HMX Caramel Pudding lacks explicit details regarding both sound and feel. This disparity leads to the conclusion that if sound quality is a priority, the Cabbage Tofu may be more appealing, while the Caramel Pudding's unexplored qualities could be a wild card for those seeking variety in their typing experience. Overall, those who prioritize tactile feedback and sound clarity may gravitate towards the Cabbage Tofu, while the Caramel Pudding remains an open invitation for experimentation.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and intended use cases. If you are a typist who values rapid response times and a tactile feel, the Cabbage Tofu is your ideal choice. Its medium-light actuation force of 53 grams, combined with the innovative 22mm lengthened spring, provides a snappy and efficient typing experience, perfect for both fast-paced typing and gaming. The unique sound profile adds a delightful auditory feedback reminiscent of Mahjong tiles, enhancing your engagement while using the keyboard. On the other hand, if you lean towards a smoother, more clacky sound signature and prioritize an effortless typing experience, the Caramel Pudding switch may suit you better. With its slightly lighter actuation force of 52 grams, it offers silky and creamy feedback, making it ideal for long typing sessions where comfort and sound are paramount. In essence, select the Cabbage Tofu for its responsiveness and engaging sound if you thrive on agility and precision, or opt for the Caramel Pudding if you appreciate a smooth, enjoyable experience without sacrificing auditory delight.
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