KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. HMX EVA
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX EVA switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often debate the merits of different options, and two intriguing linear switches are the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX EVA. The Cabbage Tofu is celebrated for its impressive tactility and responsiveness, featuring a longer 22mm spring that yields a swift rebound after actuation, creating a unique typing experience that resembles the sound of Mahjong tiles colliding. This switch offers a clacky yet polished sound profile, making it an appealing choice for those who appreciate both auditory and tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the HMX EVA draws inspiration from the vibrant colors of Evangelion Unit-01, boasting a resonant sound signature that complements its silky smooth feel. While both switches fall into the linear category, their distinct auditory and tactile characteristics cater to different typing preferences: the Cabbage Tofu for those who thrive on rhythm and rebound, and the EVA for users seeking a smooth, engaging experience. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
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-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX EVA, distinct characteristics arise from their top housings, which significantly influence the auditory experience of each switch. The Cabbage Tofu features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This stiffness allows for a more clear and resonant output, which is particularly heightened when combined with RGB lighting, thanks to the material’s translucency. In contrast, the HMX EVA’s top housing is constructed from nylon, a material celebrated for its capacity to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon absorbs sound, contributing to a duller and rounder auditory experience. Consequently, the difference in top housing materials results in divergent sound characteristics: the polycarbonate of the Cabbage Tofu lends itself to a bright and vibrant sound, while the nylon of the EVA provides a richer, more muted acoustic.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which leads to similarities in the tactile and auditory feedback experienced when typing. The nylon bottom housing of both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX EVA produces a similarly deep and full sound profile, benefiting from the material’s inherent properties of sound absorption. As such, while the top housings create a notable distinction in sound character (bright versus muted), the bottom housings ensure a commonality, offering a consistent foundation of deeper tones that enrich the overall typing experience across both models. This shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that the full-bodied impact of key presses resonates similarly between the two switches, smoothing out the disparity introduced by their top materials.
Ultimately, the interplay between the different top housings and the shared nylon bottom housing results in a unique yet comparable experience for each switch. The Cabbage Tofu, with its polycarbonate top housing, is likely to shine in scenarios that highlight crispness and brightness, making it particularly suitable for RGB integration and creating a vibrant soundscape. Meanwhile, the HMX EVA, with its nylon top, delivers a consistently warm and rich typing experience. While the bottom housings unify the auditory feedback with a rounded depth, the contrasts in top housing materials highlight each switch's unique character, demonstrating how varying materials influence specific aspects of sound while maintaining an overall cohesive feel.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch, we observe some notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cabbage Tofu has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which positions it as a medium-light switch. In contrast, the HMX EVA features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch during extended typing or gaming sessions. This indicates that users who favor a heavier feel may lean towards the Cabbage Tofu, which delivers a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while both switches offer a pleasing tactile experience, the EVA is lighter, making it more appealing for prolonged use, while the Cabbage Tofu provides a firmer response for users seeking a more robust feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch, it is evident that the Cabbage Tofu has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX EVA measures at a shorter 3.6 mm. This difference indicates that the Cabbage Tofu offers a more traditional and deeper typing experience, which some users may find more satisfying, as it provides more feedback when pressed. On the other hand, the HMX EVA's shorter travel distance could cater to those who prefer quicker response times, making it potentially more suitable for gaming or fast-paced typing scenarios. Ultimately, the Cabbage Tofu's longer travel distance may appeal to users seeking a more substantial feel, while the HMX EVA may be preferred by those who prioritize responsiveness in their switching 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 EVA has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EVA for $2.99.
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
The sound profile of the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched quality, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding when keys are pressed. This sharp and snappy sound creates a crisp and bright auditory experience that many typists find satisfying and energizing. In contrast, the HMX EVA switch's specific sound qualities are unknown; however, it features a resonant sound signature that suggests a richer, potentially more immersive auditory experience compared to the Cabbage Tofu.
When it comes to feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch shines with descriptors such as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy, making each keystroke a delightfully smooth and responsive experience. The combination of a longer spring and refined materials results in a typing sensation that allows fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys, minimizing friction and enhancing tactile feedback. Unfortunately, the exact tactile characteristics of the EVA switch are also unknown, leaving a gap in comparisons about its feel, though the mention of a silky smooth typing feature indicates it might offer a pleasant experience as well.
In conclusion, while the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a well-defined sound and an impressively smooth and responsive feel, the HMX EVA remains somewhat enigmatic without specific sound and tactile descriptions. Both switches cater to enthusiasts looking for unique typing experiences, and while they may differ in certain aspects, users who enjoy the Cabbage Tofu's combination of sound and feel may similarly appreciate the EVA if it fulfills its promise of a polished typing experience. Ultimately, personal preference will play a critical role in determining which switch is the best fit, so trying out both could be beneficial for newcomers seeking to dive into the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a moderately snappy, tactile typing experience with a unique sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles, the Cabbage Tofu is an excellent choice for you. Its 53-gram bottom-out force offers a satisfying yet comfortable typing experience, making it ideal for typists who appreciate a bit of responsiveness without being too heavy. The creamy, polished feel further enhances your typing, providing smooth and effortless keystrokes, perfect for those long typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a silkier typing experience, the HMX EVA with its 48-gram bottom-out force may be more suited to your needs. Its resonant sound signature adds an enjoyable auditory dimension to your typing while allowing for a soft and smooth feel that can help reduce finger fatigue over time. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will hinge on whether you prioritize a crisp, engaging tactile experience or a more subdued, buttery smooth feel with lighter key presses.
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