KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, both of which are linear switches, we see distinct differences in their characteristics and intended user experience. The Cabbage Tofu switch is renowned for its enhanced tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its unique 22mm spring that provides a swift rebound after actuation, resulting in a seamless transition between keystrokes. Typists using this switch often describe the sound profile as similar to Mahjong tiles colliding, creating a distinctive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its premium quality at an affordable price, offering a heavier typing experience with 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. Additionally, the switch's medium-high pitch and frosted light diffuser enhance RGB lighting effects for a more vibrant display. While both switches offer a mix of characteristics like 'Clacky' and 'Silky', and 'Creamy', and cater to different preferences, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Cabbage Tofu's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a pointed and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Cabbage Tofu's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing offers a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the Cabbage Tofu enhances its sharp and resonant sound profile, while the proprietary INK blend top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Cabbage Tofu contributes to a deeper sound profile, while the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more muted sound experience.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in switches like the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black plays a significant role in determining the sound and tactile feedback of the keyboard. While the Cabbage Tofu utilizes polycarbonate and nylon for its top and bottom housings respectively, the G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing and a POM bottom housing. Understanding the impact of these materials on sound profile and tactile feedback can help users choose the keyboard that best suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in weight. The Cabbage Tofu has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a medium-light typing experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black is heavier, with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, giving users a medium-heavy push feel. Those who prefer lighter switches for longer typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Cabbage Tofu, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier G Pro 3.0 Black. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with options based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, users will experience a consistent distance traveled from top to bottom. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to other switches, providing a quick and responsive typing experience. Therefore, whether using the KTT Cabbage Tofu or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, users can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and key feel.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch provides a clacky and more subdued sound, offering a dampened and subtle sound signature. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Cabbage Tofu and G Pro 3.0 Black switches provide a creamy and silky typing experience. The Cabbage Tofu switch is further described as polished and snappy, offering a smooth and refined finish with enhanced responsiveness. Similarly, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch emphasizes a silky smooth typing experience, with a subtle resistance that maintains a light typing feel suitable for shared spaces.
Overall, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offer premium qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cabbage Tofu switch may provide a more vibrant and high-pitched sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch delivers a balanced medium-heavy feel along with a more subdued auditory experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound profile, typing feel, and other factors such as budget and design preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a snappy, high-pitched sound profile with a creamy, polished, and silky typing feel, the Cabbage Tofu may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clacky, subdued sound profile with a creamy and silky typing feel that is also subtle in terms of both sound and resistance, the G Pro 3.0 Black could better suit your preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for key feel, sound profile, and typing experience.
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