KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers distinct characteristics, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and TTC Gold Red Pro linear switches stand out as compelling options. The Cabbage Tofu switch is notable for its enhanced tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its elongated spring that facilitates a quick rebound post-actuation, resulting in a seamless typing experience with a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro switch showcases versatility with its ease of press and neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. While both switches offer unique features and benefits, such as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'High-pitched' for Cabbage Tofu and 'Polished', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched' for Gold Red Pro, it's essential to delve deeper into their characteristics to determine the best choice for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Gold Red Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. The similarities in the top housing material of these switches suggest that users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetics when using either the Cabbage Tofu or the Gold Red Pro.
However, the bottom housing material of the Cabbage Tofu is made of nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material for the bottom housing. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar deeper and fuller sound profile as the Cabbage Tofu. This shared characteristic in the bottom housing material highlights the importance of considering both the top and bottom housing materials when evaluating switch sound profiles.
Overall, while the top housings of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Gold Red Pro may offer a similar sound profile and aesthetic due to their polycarbonate material, the bottom housings differentiate the two switches with the Cabbage Tofu providing a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon material. The impact of the bottom housing material on the bottom-out sound and feel, in contrast to the top housing's effect on the sound when releasing a key, showcases how the combination of different housing materials can contribute to the overall typing experience on mechanical switches.
Weight
The actuation force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is slightly higher at 45 grams compared to the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch's 43 grams, making the Cabbage Tofu switch slightly heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the Cabbage Tofu switch requires 53 grams of force, while the Gold Red Pro switch does not have a specified bottom out force. Both switches fall into the medium-light category, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Cabbage Tofu switch due to its slightly heavier actuation force. Overall, the Cabbage Tofu switch offers a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Gold Red Pro switch, which has less information available on its bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional travel distance range, with the Cabbage Tofu being slightly longer than the Gold Red Pro. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gold Red Pro, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Cabbage Tofu. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 is described as having a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which creates a sharp and percussive noise when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch offers a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound experience, producing a deep, rich tone that is not too loud or too quiet. Depending on personal preference and the surrounding environment, users may find the Cabbage Tofu switch to be more energetic and attention-grabbing, while the Gold Red Pro switch may provide a more mellow and soothing typing experience.
In terms of feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch is known for its creamy, polished, and silky typing sensation, offering smooth and buttery key presses with minimal resistance. This switch is also described as snappy, providing a responsive and lively typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch is characterized by its polished, silky, mild, and subtle feel, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience without being too heavy or too light. Both switches provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel, with the Cabbage Tofu switch emphasizing responsiveness and smoothness, while the Gold Red Pro switch focuses on a balanced and refined typing experience.
Overall, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch excels in providing a clacky, high-pitched sound profile and a creamy, polished, and silky typing feel, creating a dynamic and responsive typing experience. Meanwhile, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound signature, as well as a polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing sensation, catering to a wide range of user preferences and typing environments. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, both switches offer high-quality performance and versatility for various typing needs. By considering the unique qualities of each switch, users can make an informed decision based on their desired sound and feel preferences for an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, you should consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a clacky, high-pitched sound profile with creamy, polished, or snappy feel, then the Cabbage Tofu switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you desire a versatile switch with no specified bottom out force and prefer a thocky, low-pitched, or neutral sound profile with polished, silky, mild, or subtle feel, then the Gold Red Pro switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure the best possible keyboard experience.
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