KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. HMX Cheese
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Cheese switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may come across two popular options, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Cheese, both of which are linear switches. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring that ensures a swift rebound after actuation. Users can expect a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, giving it a unique character. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese switch offers an unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, with a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light switches are lighter than 90% of all switches, providing a different typing feel. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
46g
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
Ly
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
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Cheese both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Cabbage Tofu features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Cheese utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the polycarbonate offers a clear and resonant sound, the nylon provides a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both materials are known for their unique sound characteristics, with polycarbonate emphasizing clarity and resonant tones, and nylon bringing out deeper and fuller sounds.
The bottom housing materials of the Cabbage Tofu and the Cheese also play a significant role in their overall sound profiles. Both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound experience when typing. The relatively softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that both the Cabbage Tofu and the Cheese offer a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. Despite differences in their top housings, the shared nylon bottom housing allows for a comparable sound experience for users of both switches.
Overall, the housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Cheese each offer distinct sound characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. While the polycarbonate top housing of the Cabbage Tofu creates a sharper and crisper sound, the nylon top housing of the Cheese produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which enhances the typing experience with its ability to absorb sound and create a rounder tone. Whether you prefer the clear and resonant sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller tones of nylon, both switches provide a unique typing experience that is sure to satisfy mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, we can see that the Cabbage Tofu has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Cheese's 43 grams. This means that the Cabbage Tofu will require a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cabbage Tofu also requires more force at 53 grams compared to the Cheese's 46 grams. This makes the Cabbage Tofu a bit heavier overall in terms of typing feel. The Cheese, on the other hand, is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, making it a more lightweight option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the Cabbage Tofu provides a bit more resistance throughout the keystroke, while the Cheese offers a more effortless typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Cheese switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Cabbage Tofu switch. The Cabbage Tofu switch falls into the more traditional range of travel distances, providing a balanced feel when typing. On the other hand, the Cheese switch's shorter travel distance caters more towards gamers looking for a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the shorter travel distance of the Cheese switch offering a quicker typing experience, while the Cabbage Tofu switch provides a more substantial key press depth. Both switches may deliver similar results in terms of functionality, but the difference in travel distance can impact the overall typing experience.
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 Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.99.
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 linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. This sharp and crisp sound can provide a satisfying auditory experience for typists who enjoy a more percussive tone. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese linear switch offers a unique clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, which is smoother and lighter compared to most switches on the market. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience depending on personal preference and setup.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is characterized by a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. This combination of qualities ensures a smooth and buttery sensation when pressing the keys, with reduced friction and enhanced responsiveness for a more dynamic typing feel. In contrast, the HMX Cheese linear switch's specific feel qualities are unknown at this time. It is important to note that the typing experience can vary based on individual preferences and typing habits, so experimenting with different switches is recommended to find the ideal fit.
Overall, while the subjective qualities of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch may differ in terms of sound and feel, both switches aim to provide an enhanced typing experience for users. Whether you prefer the clacky and high-pitched sound of the Cabbage Tofu switch or the smooth and light feel of the Cheese switch, exploring various options and combinations with different keyboards and keycaps can help you customize your typing setup to suit your preferences perfectly. By understanding the unique characteristics of each switch and how they can complement your typing style, you can make an informed decision on which switch is the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference in terms of typing experience. If you prioritize improved tactility and responsiveness with a medium-light bottom out force, then the Cabbage Tofu switch is the way to go. This switch offers a swift rebound after actuation and a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, if you prefer an unparalleled smoothness and a light bottom out force, along with a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, then the HMX Cheese switch is the better option for you. Ultimately, consider how you want your typing experience to feel and sound when choosing between these two switches.
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