KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. HMX FJ400

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX FJ400 can significantly impact your typing experience. The Cabbage Tofu is celebrated for its enhanced tactility and responsiveness, featuring a lengthened 22mm spring that provides a rapid rebound after each keystroke. This results in a typing experience that feels both lively and interactive, accompanied by a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, which delivers a unique auditory feedback that many typists find appealing. Conversely, the HMX FJ400 represents a more balanced option within the HMX Film switch lineup, offering a sound profile that aims to strike a harmonious middle ground, making it an attractive choice for users who prefer a more versatile sound without leaning too heavily in one direction. Both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, although they serve different preferences: the Cabbage Tofu for those who enjoy a clackier, more textured feedback, and the FJ400 for those seeking a more neutral and versatile 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

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

HMX FJ400 Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX FJ400, the difference in top housing materials significantly influences their sound profiles. The KTT Cabbage Tofu utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiff characteristics, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This attributes a more resonant quality to the actuation and release of the switch, especially favorable for users looking for clear auditory feedback during typing. Conversely, the HMX FJ400 features a POM top housing, which renders a deeper and more muted sound profile. This unmistakable contrast in sound aesthetics stems from the inherent properties of the plastics, where polycarbonate emphasizes brightness and clarity, while POM leans towards warmth and depth.

In terms of bottom housing, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX FJ400 adopt nylon, a classic choice popular for keyboard switches. The softer nature of nylon facilitates a deeper and fuller sound profile, effectively absorbing noise and lending the typing experience a more rounded feel. As a result, both switches present a consistent softness and fullness on the bottom side, providing a satisfying bottom-out experience. The bottom housing’s impact remains significant as it affects how the switch feels during typing, ensuring that both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and HMX FJ400 deliver a solid tactile sensation for users, despite differences in their top housings.

Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housings in these switches results in distinct auditory experiences. In the KTT Cabbage Tofu, the sharpness of the polycarbonate top complements the fullness produced by the nylon bottom, forming a unique blend of sound that remains articulate. Meanwhile, the HMX FJ400’s deep and muted characteristics from the POM top housing interact with the nylon bottom to create a more cohesive yet subdued sound. While both switches provide a fulfilling experience tailored to different auditory preferences, the essence of their performance—as shaped by the synergy of materials—ensures that both models can appeal to a wide range of keyboard enthusiasts seeking various sound profiles.

Weight

The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch exhibit some notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Cabbage Tofu requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the FJ400's 50 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch and longer typing sessions. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Cabbage Tofu is rated at 53 grams, while the FJ400 offers a slightly heavier bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that the Cabbage Tofu is overall the lighter switch, providing a less demanding typing experience. Conversely, the FJ400's higher forces give it a more robust feel, which some users might favor for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while both switches have their unique appeal, the Cabbage Tofu is likely to be more comfortable for extended use, whereas the FJ400 may cater to those seeking a firmer keystroke.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, we can see a noticeable difference. The Cabbage Tofu features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the FJ400 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the FJ400 the shorter option, potentially appealing to gamers or users who prefer quicker response times without the need for a deep press. Conversely, the Cabbage Tofu, with its longer travel distance, can provide a more traditional typing experience that many users may find preferable for a fuller tactile sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with those looking for responsiveness likely to lean towards the FJ400, while those who favor a more substantial depth may opt for the Cabbage Tofu.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch is characterized as clacky and high-pitched, providing a sharp, bright, and percussive noise reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. This distinct auditory feedback can create a lively typing atmosphere, particularly appreciated by those who enjoy the distinct sound of their keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX FJ400 linear switch occupies a middle ground in the HMX Film switch lineup, which suggests it offers a more balanced sound profile. Unfortunately, specific descriptors for its sound characteristics are not provided, making a direct comparison difficult; however, one can generally expect a less pronounced audio presence compared to the Cabbage Tofu.

When considering the feel of the switches, the Cabbage Tofu shines with its creamy, polished, silky, and snappy qualities. The longer 22mm spring enhances its responsiveness, allowing for a swift rebound that makes typing feel fluid and engaging. Users can expect a typing experience where their fingers glide effortlessly across the keys, supported by a smooth, refined finish that minimizes friction. On the other hand, the feel of the HMX FJ400 is not specifically detailed, leaving a gap in comparative analysis. However, users may find that the overall feel of either switch, particularly in terms of smoothness and responsiveness, could be influenced by their switch’s design and materials.

In conclusion, while the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch stands out with its unique sound and its exceptionally smooth and responsive feel, the HMX FJ400 provides a balanced acoustic experience without specific descriptors for its tactile feedback. This means that if you prefer a lively auditory experience, the Cabbage Tofu is likely to deliver, while the FJ400 may offer a more subdued sound. Ultimately, if you prioritize smoothness and responsiveness, you're likely to find enjoyable typing experiences with either switch, but the specific characteristics of the Cabbage Tofu provide a unique and appealing edge for enthusiasts seeking that extra tactile delight.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a lower bottom-out force for a lighter touch, the Cabbage Tofu, with its 53 grams, may be ideal for you. Its unique characteristics, such as a quick rebound thanks to the longer spring, provide a snappy and responsive feel that is particularly beneficial for fast typists and gamers alike. The clacky and high-pitched sound profile further enhances the typing experience if you enjoy a more lively auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more balanced typing experience with a medium feel, the HMX FJ400, which has a bottom out force of 58 grams, could be the better option. This switch is designed to be a middle ground, offering a solid and consistent response without overwhelming sound. In summary, if you value a creamy, silky touch with a prominent aural presence, lean towards the KTT Cabbage Tofu; however, if you are after a well-rounded switch that strikes a balance between feel and sound, the HMX FJ400 would serve you well. The decision ultimately should reflect your typing habits and personal comfort.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn more

HMX FJ400 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more