KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. TTC Flame Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Flame Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular options in the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Flame Red. Both switches offer unique features and characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Cabbage Tofu switch is widely renowned for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring. Typists will appreciate the swift rebound after actuation, allowing for a seamless transition between keystrokes. With a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, this switch is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy'. On the other hand, the Flame Red switch is a visual delight, boasting a dazzling light diffuser that makes it perfect for backlit, RGB keyboards. Typing on these switches provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', they offer a different yet equally enticing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
54g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Flame Red switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Cabbage Tofu features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Flame Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, these two switches will provide distinct acoustic experiences due to their differing top housing materials.
Both switches, however, share a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is considered a classic switch housing material, known for generating a deep and full sound profile. Its softer composition allows for a higher degree of sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, despite having different top housing materials, the Cabbage Tofu and Flame Red switches will exhibit similar bottom-out sound and feel, thanks to the commonality of their nylon bottom housings.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles in the overall sound production of a switch. When a key is pressed and released, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more noticeable. As such, the choice of bottom housing material, such as nylon, will heavily influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing material, whether it be polycarbonate or nylon, will primarily impact the sound when a key is released. Therefore, while the Cabbage Tofu and Flame Red switches may differ in terms of their top housing materials, they will both offer a satisfying typing experience with variations in sound profiles based on their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, it is evident that they have similar actuation forces. Both switches require a gentle force of 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. This means that users can expect a similar responsive typing experience when using either switch. However, when considering the bottom out force, there is a slight difference between the two. The Cabbage Tofu has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Flame Red has a bottom out force of 54 grams. This indicates that the Flame Red switch offers a slightly heavier feel when fully pressing down the keys compared to the Cabbage Tofu switch.
Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Cabbage Tofu switch more suitable. With its medium-light actuation and bottom out forces, it allows for extended typing periods without causing fatigue. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Flame Red switch with its slightly heavier bottom out force. This can provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience, suited for users who appreciate a stronger push when pressing the keys. Ultimately, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force is a matter of personal preference, and both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation force while providing a slight difference in bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the switch travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance traveled when using either switch.
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 TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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 switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound. The sharp and snappy sound when pressed gives it a crisp and bright quality. This is perfect for those who enjoy a more percussive sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. It does not lean towards being too rich or bassy, making it suitable for various purposes. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is not solely determined by the switch itself, but is also influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch offers a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. It is known for its smooth and buttery feel due to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. This results in effortless gliding of fingers across the keys, providing a luxurious sensation with each keystroke. The polished finish of the switch adds to the sleek typing experience by reducing friction and creating smooth key travel. Additionally, the longer and dual-staged springs contribute to a snappy and responsive typing experience.
On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. It offers a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes it approachable to most typists, as its qualities are in a safe middle-ground zone. Similar to the KTT Cabbage Tofu, the polished finish of the Flame Red switch ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and TTC Flame Red switches differ in their sound and feel qualities. The Cabbage Tofu produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, while offering a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Flame Red has a neutral sound profile and provides a mild and polished feel. However, it is important to note that the choice of board and keycaps will also influence the sound and feel of the switches. Both switches offer different subjective qualities, allowing users to choose the one that aligns with their preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value improved tactility and responsiveness in your switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is an excellent choice. With its lengthened spring, you can expect a quick rebound after actuation, allowing for a seamless transition between keystrokes. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch offers a clacky sound profile, which produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This can create a crisp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize visuals and enjoy having a backlit or RGB keyboard, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is the way to go. Its dazzling light diffuser adds an extra level of visual appeal to your keyboard setup. In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu provides a creamy and polished typing experience, thanks to potential lubrication and materials used. It offers a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. Alternatively, the Flame Red switch offers a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Ultimately, your choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and TTC Flame Red switches will depend on your personal preferences and priorities.
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