KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it becomes apparent that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cabbage Tofu switch boasts improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring which allows for a swift rebound after actuation. This results in a quicker transition between keystrokes and a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro switch stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bright and chirpy sound signature and a silky smooth typing experience. The choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference based on whether you prefer a clacky and creamy feel with the Cabbage Tofu or a bouncy and polished typing experience with the Crystal Pro. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Cabbage Tofu's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound. In contrast, the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing continues the trend of sharp and crisp sound output, aligning with the characteristics of the top housing.
Despite both switches featuring polycarbonate top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials leads to unique sound profiles. The Cabbage Tofu's combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing results in a mix of sharpness and depth in sound, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro's consistent use of polycarbonate housing throughout maintains a cohesive sound profile, with the top housing playing a more significant role in the sound when a key is released. This difference in materials shows how housing composition can impact the overall typing experience and sound quality of a keyboard switch.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro share polycarbonate top housing, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile. The Cabbage Tofu's combination of polycarbonate and nylon results in a unique mix of sharpness and depth, while the V3 Crystal Pro's consistent polycarbonate housing provides a more consistent sound experience throughout typing. Ultimately, the housing materials of a switch play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel, making it an important factor for keyboard enthusiasts to consider when choosing a switch for their setup.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Cabbage Tofu is lighter in both aspects. The Cabbage Tofu has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the V3 Crystal Pro has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Cabbage Tofu is therefore better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for prolonged use during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a slightly heavier touch, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who enjoy a stronger push when typing. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, slightly longer than the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Despite this small difference in travel distance, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances for switches. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Crystal Pro for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press experience may opt for the Cabbage Tofu switch with the longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press 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 Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, delivering a sharp and percussive noise when pressed. This sound profile can be likened to Mahjong tiles colliding, adding an element of crispness and brightness to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is described as chirpy, providing a unique squeak to the sound that sets it apart from other switches. The fully polycarbonate construction of the Crystal Pro switches contributes to a bright and cheerful sound signature, offering a distinctly different auditory experience compared to the Cabbage Tofu switch.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch is known for its creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. Thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring, users can expect a smooth and buttery sensation while typing, with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. The snappy characteristic of these switches adds a lively feel to each keystroke, making the typing experience more responsive and dynamic. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch is described as bouncy and polished, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that enhances key rebound. The smooth and refined finish of the Crystal Pro switches ensures a sleek typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel for effortless typing.
In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Cabbage Tofu switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound along with a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing feel, the Crystal Pro switch offers a chirpy sound and bouncy, polished feel. Both switches deliver unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience, providing users with a variety of options to choose from based on their personal preferences. Whether opting for the Cabbage Tofu or the Crystal Pro switch, users can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with similar smoothness and responsiveness.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a switch with improved tactility and responsiveness, the Cabbage Tofu may be the better choice for you. The swift rebound and medium-light bottom out force could provide a satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bright and chirpy sound signature, along with a fully polycarbonate construction for a smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro might be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what aspects of typing feel and sound profile are most important to you.
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