KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. TTC Gold Brown

Overview

Introducing the KTT Cabbage Tofu, a linear switch, and the TTC Gold Brown, a tactile switch. These two mechanical keyboard switches offer distinct advantages for different typing preferences. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring. Typists will appreciate the swift rebound after actuation, allowing for a quicker transition between keystrokes. Moreover, the Cabbage Tofu switch emits a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, offering a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gold Browns from TTC embody balance, providing a satisfying bump while maintaining a moderate weightiness. The rounded sound profile of the Gold Browns is generally softer than most switches without being completely silent. It strikes a delightful balance between feedback and smoothness. 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

TTC Gold Brown Tactile

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

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Housing materials

The KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Gold Brown both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice results in a similar outcome for both switches, as polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for an appealing visual effect. Therefore, despite any potential differences in design or branding, both the Cabbage Tofu and the Gold Brown achieve similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics due to their common use of polycarbonate in the top housing.

In contrast, the Cabbage Tofu features a nylon bottom housing, while the Gold Brown also incorporates nylon as its bottom housing material. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to the relatively softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both the Cabbage Tofu and the Gold Brown offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound due to their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing.

Although the top and bottom housings may differ in material for each switch, their respective impact on the overall sound and feel should be noted. When pressing down on either the Cabbage Tofu or the Gold Brown, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the keystroke. Conversely, upon releasing a key, the sound is more influenced by the characteristics of the top housing. Therefore, while the housing materials may differ between the switches, they each contribute to a unique and well-rounded typing experience, encompassing both the actuation and release of keys.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences to consider. Starting with the actuation force, the Cabbage Tofu requires 45 grams, while the Gold Brown requires slightly more at 55 grams. This means that the Cabbage Tofu provides a lighter touch for typing, which may be favored by individuals who prefer longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. On the other hand, the Gold Brown offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a stronger push feel for those seeking a more substantial typing experience.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Cabbage Tofu requires 53 grams, whereas the Gold Brown requires 63 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, but the Gold Brown again requires a slightly heavier force to fully bottom out. This may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a bit of resistance when pressing down keys.

Overall, the Cabbage Tofu is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gold Brown. However, if you are seeking a similar typing experience, you can achieve similar results by applying slightly more pressure with the Cabbage Tofu to compensate for the difference in force. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer the light and responsive touch of the Cabbage Tofu or the slightly heavier and more substantial feel of the Gold Brown.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a switch is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a keyboard for your personal preferences. In the case of comparative analysis between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, it is evident that both switches share an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys, users will experience a similar distance covered by each switch, resulting in a comparable tactile feedback and typing experience. Therefore, if you are seeking a keyboard with a specific travel distance, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch will provide you with the desired outcome.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed. The sound can be described as sharp, crisp, and percussive, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a more neutral sound profile. It produces a moderate sound that is generally softer than most switches without being completely silent. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, if you want a similar result to the Cabbage Tofu, you might opt for higher-pitched switches, and if you prefer a more balanced and neutral sound, the Gold Brown would be a suitable choice.

In terms of feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. These switches provide a smooth and buttery sensation while typing, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. The prolonged 22mm spring enhances the responsiveness, making the typing experience feel more alive. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a mild, buttery, accented, and polished feel. These switches offer a gentle yet uniform typing experience, providing a seamless and effortless sensation. They have a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Both switches excel in providing a polished and refined typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Cabbage Tofu has a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the Gold Brown has a neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu provides a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy experience, whereas the Gold Brown offers a mild, buttery, accented, and polished feel. Depending on your preferences, you can choose between the sharper and more responsive typing experience of the Cabbage Tofu or the balanced and gentle typing experience of the Gold Brown. Regardless of your choice, both switches provide a smooth and refined typing feel.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a switch with improved tactility and responsiveness, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its lengthened spring and swift rebound after actuation, you can expect a quicker transition between keystrokes. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a sharp and crisp sound when typing. In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with enhanced responsiveness.

On the other hand, if you are seeking a balanced switch with a moderate weightiness, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch would be a suitable option for you. These switches offer a satisfying bump and a rounded sound profile that is generally softer than most switches. The Gold Brown switch has a bottom out force of 63 grams, which is medium, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. In terms of sound, the Gold Brown switch has a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile choice for beginners and advanced users alike, whether for home or work.

Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch depends on your specific preferences. If you value improved tactility and a sharper sound, the Cabbage Tofu switch might be the better option. If you prefer a balanced and moderate tactile experience with a softer sound profile, the Gold Brown switch would be more suitable. Consider your desired typing experience and sound preference when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn more

TTC Gold Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

Learn more