KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Aflion Foggy Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Aflion Foggy Shadow stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The Cabbage Tofu, a linear switch, is praised for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to a lengthened 22mm spring that allows for a swift rebound after actuation. Typists will appreciate the quick transition between keystrokes and the sound profile resembling Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow, a tactile switch, offers a very light tactile bump with a 63.5g bottom-out force, providing a balanced performance and medium weight feel. While the Cabbage Tofu is labeled as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy', the Foggy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral'. Choosing between these two switches will depend on your preference for linear or tactile feedback. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Aflion Foggy Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both the Cabbage Tofu and the Foggy Shadow share similarities in their housing materials, the way these materials are utilized can have an impact on the overall sound and feel of the switches. The split between the top and bottom housings means that the qualities of each material will affect different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches can greatly influence the sound and feel of typing. Both polycarbonate and nylon offer distinct characteristics that affect the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound with polycarbonate or a deeper, fuller sound with nylon, understanding the differences between these materials can help you choose the switch that best suits your typing preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch differ in weight, with the Cabbage Tofu being lighter than the Foggy Shadow. The Cabbage Tofu has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow has an actuation force that is unknown and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. The Cabbage Tofu is ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for extended use without fatigue, while the Foggy Shadow is suited for those who prefer a more substantial push feel when typing. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their respective actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with options to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer than the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch. The Cabbage Tofu provides a more traditional travel distance, while the Foggy Shadow offers a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Foggy Shadow for quicker response times, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may lean towards the Cabbage Tofu. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Cabbage Tofu has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Aflion Foggy Shadow.
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 Aflion Foggy Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Foggy Shadow for $3.91.
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 produces a clacky high-pitched sound that is sharp and snappy, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing environments. Depending on your preference for sound, both switches offer distinct auditory experiences that can enhance your typing enjoyment.
In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The longer 22mm spring in the switch contributes to a snappier and super responsive feel, making each keystroke feel more alive. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available on the feel of the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch. However, based on the company's commitment to balanced performance and innovation, it can be assumed that the tactile bump and 63.5g bottom-out force of the switch offer a satisfying and comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cabbage Tofu switch is known for its clacky high-pitched sound and creamy, polished, silky, and snappy feel, the Foggy Shadow switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, ideal for various typing environments. Whether you prefer a sharp and snappy sound or a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience with their innovative features and balanced performance.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, consider the following guidelines: If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a swift rebound after actuation for quick transitions between keystrokes, the Cabbage Tofu might be the ideal choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile while typing, this switch could enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a very light tactile bump for a balanced performance, the Aflion Foggy Shadow could be more suited to your preferences. Moreover, if you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, along with a silky typing feel, the Foggy Shadow could provide you with a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific qualities you value in a keyboard switch.
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