KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. KTT Glimp
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Glimp switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Glimp, both of which are linear switches. The Cabbage Tofu switch is best known for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring. Typists will notice a swift rebound after actuation, allowing for a quicker transition between keystrokes. The sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu switch is reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, giving it a distinctive clacky and high-pitched feel. On the other hand, the Glimp switch offers a medium-light typing experience with a perfect balance for those who enjoy a substantial feedback without overwhelming resistance. Its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force provide a satisfying and responsive typing feel. Additionally, the fairly clacky sound profile of the Glimp switch adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Glimp share the same polycarbonate top housing material. Both switches utilize polycarbonate to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent property of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users of both the Cabbage Tofu and the Glimp can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic appeal when it comes to the polycarbonate top housing.
However, the bottom housing materials of these two switches differ. The Cabbage Tofu features a nylon bottom housing, while the Glimp utilizes the same material. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users who prefer a switch with a more muffled and muted sound profile may lean towards the Cabbage Tofu, while those who appreciate a deeper and fuller sound will find satisfaction in the Glimp.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housing materials play different roles in the overall performance of the switches. While the bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when the key is released. Therefore, users can expect subtle differences in sound and tactile feedback between the Cabbage Tofu and the Glimp due to the variation in their bottom housing materials. Nonetheless, the similar polycarbonate top housing imparts comparable qualities to both switches, ensuring a crisp and resonant sound when keys are released.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. First, in terms of weight, both switches can be considered medium-light. The Cabbage Tofu has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. Therefore, in terms of bottom out force, both switches are the same.
However, when it comes to actuation force, there is a slight difference between the two. The Cabbage Tofu requires a slightly heavier force of 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the Glimp requires slightly less force at 43 grams. This means that for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Glimp might be a more suitable choice, as it requires slightly less force to activate.
On the other hand, for individuals who prefer a stronger and more substantial typing experience, the Cabbage Tofu might be the better option, as it requires a slightly heavier actuation force. This can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback and a sense of stability while typing.
Ultimately, whether to choose the KTT Cabbage Tofu with its slightly heavier actuation force, or the KTT Glimp with its slightly lighter actuation force, depends on personal preference. Those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or gaming might favor the Glimp, while those who prefer a stronger push and a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Cabbage Tofu. However, since both switches have the same bottom out force, users can expect similar results in terms of the overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and KTT Glimp linear switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of key travel. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying tactile feedback, making them suitable options for individuals who prefer a 4 mm travel distance for their typing or gaming needs. Whether you choose the Cabbage Tofu or the Glimp, you can expect a similar key pressing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Glimp switches are described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. However, the Cabbage Tofu is also described as high-pitched, which means it has a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Glimp, which has a neutral sound profile. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so individual results may vary. Overall, both switches offer enjoyable auditory elements to your typing sessions, with the Cabbage Tofu offering a higher-pitched sound and the Glimp providing a more neutral sound.
In terms of feel, both the Cabbage Tofu and the Glimp switches are described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This is likely due to factory lubrication and specific materials used in the switches, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as polished, further enhancing the sleek typing experience. The Glimp switch, on the other hand, is described as mild, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Overall, both switches offer a silky and responsive typing feel, with the Cabbage Tofu providing a snappier experience due to its longer spring.
Based on the available information, the Cabbage Tofu and Glimp switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cabbage Tofu has a higher-pitched sound and a snappier feel, thanks to its lengthened spring, while the Glimp offers a more neutral sound and a mild typing experience. Both switches provide a creamy and smooth typing feel, gliding effortlessly across the keys. It's important to note that individual preferences may vary, so it's recommended to consider personal preferences and try out different switches to determine the best fit.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, it all comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking. Both switches have a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is considered medium-light. The Cabbage Tofu is best known for its improved tactility and swift rebound after actuation, resulting in a quicker transition between keystrokes. It also produces a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Glimp offers a satisfying and responsive typing feel with its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force. It has a fairly clacky sound profile and is described as creamy and mild in terms of feel. Ultimately, if you prefer a switch with enhanced tactility and a high-pitched sound, the Cabbage Tofu would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a balanced typing experience and a creamy feel, the Glimp would be a better fit.