KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Dareu Dream both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring that allows for a swift rebound after actuation. This results in a quicker transition between keystrokes, accompanied by a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. In contrast, the Dareu Dream switches offer a very light linear option at an attractive price point, making them a popular choice for enthusiasts seeking quality and affordability. While the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Snappy', the Dareu Dream is characterized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Clacky', and 'Mild'. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Dareu Dream are quite similar, with both featuring polycarbonate top housings. The use of polycarbonate in both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as the relatively stiffer plastic leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful if RGB lighting is to be incorporated into the switches. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing material, with the Cabbage Tofu utilizing nylon and the Dareu Dream also featuring nylon in its bottom housing.
The nylon bottom housing of the Cabbage Tofu and the Dareu Dream elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may contribute to a slightly varied typing experience between the two switches, even though they share the same polycarbonate top housing. The impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be more influenced by the bottom housing, while the sound when releasing a key will be more affected by the top housing.
Overall, the similarities in the polycarbonate top housing of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Dareu Dream suggest that users can expect a similar sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile from both switches. However, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches may lead to subtle differences in the typing experience. The Cabbage Tofu and the Dareu Dream offer a blend of materials that contribute to a unique sound profile, with the hardness of the polycarbonate and the softness of the nylon each playing a role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Weight
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is lighter than the Dareu Dream linear switch when comparing actuation force. The Cabbage Tofu has an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly heavier than the Dream's 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cabbage Tofu requires 53 grams, while the Dream's bottom out force is unknown. Both switches provide a medium-light typing experience, with the Cabbage Tofu having slightly heavier bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, the Dareu Dream may be the better option. On the other hand, if a more substantial typing experience is desired, the KTT Cabbage Tofu would be the suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and overall typing experience with both switches. In terms of travel distance, it can be concluded that there is no difference between the two switches as they offer identical key travel experiences.
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 Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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 is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, resembling Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream linear switch is also described as clacky, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Overall, both switches offer a similar sound experience, making them a good choice for those who enjoy a crisp and bright sound while typing.
Moving on to feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch is characterized by its creamy, polished, silky, and snappy feel, offering a buttery and smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Dareu Dream switch is known for being easy-to-press and mild, providing gentle resistance and a low-impact typing feel. While the two switches have different descriptions, they both aim to enhance the typing experience by offering a comfortable and responsive feel, making them suitable for different preferences in terms of key press resistance.
In conclusion, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. While the Cabbage Tofu switch may provide a slightly more varied feel with its creamy and polished attributes, the Dareu Dream switch focuses on being easy-to-press and mild for a gentle typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for enthusiasts looking for linear switches with different sound and feel preferences. It is essential to consider personal preferences and typing habits when deciding between these two switches to ensure the best typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a switch with improved tactility and responsiveness, the Cabbage Tofu may be the right choice for you. With a swift rebound after actuation and a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, you can expect a clacky and high-pitched sound with a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy feel while typing. On the other hand, if you are looking for a very light linear option at an attractive price point, the Dareu Dream switch might be more suitable. Offering a light actuation force and an easy-to-press feel, the Dream switch provides a clacky sound and a mild typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for bottom out force, tactility, responsiveness, sound profile, and typing feel.
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