KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Durock Dolphin
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Durock Dolphin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Durock Dolphin both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cabbage Tofu is celebrated for its tactile and responsive nature, with a swift rebound thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring, providing a smooth transition between keystrokes and a sound profile akin to Mahjong tiles colliding. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a 'clacky' and 'snappy' typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin stands out for its silence, making it perfect for office environments where noise levels are a concern. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it strikes a balance between precision and satisfying key presses, appealing to users who prefer a switch with more resistance. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Durock Dolphin feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate provides a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize sound quality in their mechanical keyboards. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches use nylon, a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This can provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a quieter and less sharp sound from their keyboard switches.
Despite the similarities in housing materials, the distribution of these materials within the switches can impact the overall typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. Understanding how the different housing materials work together can help users customize their mechanical keyboards to achieve their desired typing feel and sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, it is evident that the Cabbage Tofu is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Dolphin is the heavier choice with an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. The Cabbage Tofu offers a medium-light feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Dolphin provides a medium typing experience, giving a more substantial push feel for users who enjoy a stronger key press. Despite the differences in weight, both switches offer reliable performance, with the lighter Cabbage Tofu delivering similar results in actuation and bottom out forces as the heavier Dolphin. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Dolphin has a shorter travel distance compared to the Cabbage Tofu. The difference may seem small, but it can have a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. The Cabbage Tofu offers slightly more depth in its travel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press sensation. On the other hand, the Dolphin's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer benefits depending on personal preferences, with the shorter travel distance providing faster input and the longer travel distance offering a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing or gaming style.
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 Durock Dolphin has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dolphin for $5.41.
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 producing a clacky and high-pitched sound reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, offering a sharp and snappy auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is praised for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for office environments. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Cabbage Tofu being more vibrant and tactile, while the Dolphin leans towards a more subdued and stealthy sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is celebrated for its creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, allowing for smooth and buttery key presses with minimal friction. The Dolphin linear switch, on the other hand, is described as polished, offering a refined and sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a premium feel that enhances the overall typing experience, with the Cabbage Tofu offering a wider range of tactile sensations compared to the Dolphin.
In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch stands out for its clacky, high-pitched sound profile and creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing feel, making it a versatile choice for those who appreciate a more tactile and vibrant keyboard switch experience. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin linear switch excels in its muted, low-pitched sound profile and polished typing feel, catering to individuals seeking a quieter and more refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding sound, feel, and overall typing style, but both switches offer high-quality performance in their respective characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a swift rebound and a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, the Cabbage Tofu might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a silent switch with a medium-heavy actuation force and a more muted, low-pitched sound profile, the Durock Dolphin could be more suitable, especially for office settings where noise levels matter. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the feel and sound you prefer while typing.
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