KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Bsun Cliff
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Bsun Cliff switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between options like the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Bsun Cliff can significantly impact your typing experience. The KTT Cabbage Tofu is a linear switch renowned for its improved tactility and responsiveness, featuring a specialized 22mm spring that allows for a swift rebound post-actuation. This design results in a typing experience characterized by a clacky, creamy sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles, making it a great choice for typists who favor smooth keystrokes and rapid transitions. On the other hand, the Bsun Cliff offers a tactile experience with a medium level of tactility and a crisp sound signature that appeals to those who enjoy a tangible feedback with each key press. Each switch serves distinct preferences: choose the Cabbage Tofu for its high-speed performance and sound or the Cliff for its solid tactile response. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Bsun Cliff both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in strikingly similar sound profiles characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, contributes to a more resonant sound, enhancing clarity while typing. Furthermore, the visual appeal of a clear polycarbonate top housing aligns well with RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant illumination effects that highlight the intricacy of the switch design. Because both models share this specific material for the top housing, users can expect comparable acoustic performance and aesthetic qualities when integrating either switch into their setups.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Bsun Cliff are made of nylon, a material known for its softer characteristics. This choice influences the overall sound profile by producing a deeper, fuller auditory experience. Nylon’s ability to absorb sound effectively leads to a rounder and duller tonal quality compared to harder materials, creating a harmonious balance with the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate tops. Therefore, while both switches have distinct tonal capabilities informed by their respective housing materials, the nylon bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out feel and sound, ensuring a comprehensive auditory experience that complements the crispness established by the polycarbonate top.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Bsun Cliff results in a well-rounded sound profile that leverages the strengths of each material. The polycarbonate top elevates the switch's resonant qualities, while the nylon bottom softens the overall auditory impact, creating a unique typing experience that blends clarity with warmth. As a result, users can enjoy similar typing dynamics across these two models, despite minor nuances in their design, as both exhibit the advantages of their material choices effectively.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch to the Bsun Cliff tactile switch, we see distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varied typing preferences. The Cabbage Tofu features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the Bsun Cliff has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Cliff not only easier to press but also ideal for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, especially during extended gaming sessions or long workdays. Conversely, the Cabbage Tofu's slightly heavier forces provide a more substantial typing feel, which may appeal to users who favor a stronger push. Overall, those looking for a lighter switch should opt for the Bsun Cliff, while those who appreciate a tad more weight might find the Cabbage Tofu more satisfying.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Cliff tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing the keys, the Cabbage Tofu offers a more substantial feel, appealing to those who prefer a deeper and more deliberate keystroke. In contrast, the Cliff's shorter travel distance may provide quicker responsiveness, which can be particularly advantageous for gamers seeking faster reaction times. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches depends on personal preference: if you appreciate a more pronounced key feel, the Cabbage Tofu would be the better option, whereas if you favor a snappier and more immediate response, the Cliff is the way to go.
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 Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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 considering sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch has a distinctive high-pitched, clacky tone reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, which gives it a crisp and bright auditory profile. This sound can be particularly appealing for those who enjoy a lively keystroke experience that is sharp and percussive. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch are not detailed, leaving them relatively unknown in terms of acoustic quality. This can mean that users looking for a precise auditory experience might gravitate toward the more established Cabbage Tofu, whose sound signature is already appreciated within the mechanical keyboard community.
In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu excels with a variety of descriptors such as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy, ensuring a smooth and responsive typing experience. The use of a lengthened 22mm spring enhances the switch's snappiness and responsiveness, thus making it feel lively and quick during use. The tactile feedback is evident and pleasurable, appealing to typists who value both speed and smoothness. On the other hand, the feel of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch is unspecified, leaving a gap in the tactile experience it may provide. Without clear descriptions, it’s difficult to ascertain how its typing experience compares to the luxurious qualities of the Cabbage Tofu.
In summary, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch is a strong contender for those who prioritize both sound and feel, boasting a crisp, clacky tone along with a smooth, responsive typing experience. Its well-defined auditory and tactile qualities can cater to a wide range of preferences, making it an excellent choice for newcomers. Meanwhile, the Bsun Cliff's characteristics remain somewhat elusive, which may lead potential users to lean towards the more established and appreciated qualities of the Cabbage Tofu, especially for those seeking a proven and enjoyable typing sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Bsun Cliff tactile switch, your personal preferences and typing habits should guide your choice. If you favor a lively and responsive typing experience, along with a smooth feel that promotes quick keystrokes, the Cabbage Tofu is the ideal option for you. Its medium-light actuation force of 53 grams combined with its creamy and silky characteristics makes it perfect for typists who appreciate smooth transitions without sacrificing speed. The clacky and high-pitched sound profile can also add an enjoyable auditory element to your typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and seek tactile feedback without the weight, the Cliff switch, with its 45-gram bottom-out force, would suit you better. Its medium tactility, complemented by a crisp sound signature, offers a more subtle, yet pleasant typing experience, making it a good choice for those who appreciate feedback while still enjoying a lighter keystroke. Ultimately, your decision should reflect the typing experience you prioritize; whether that be speed and smoothness with the Cabbage Tofu or a tactile response with the Cliff, each switch will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience in different ways.
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