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KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Huano Grape Orange

An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Huano Grape Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Huano Grape Orange offer distinct yet appealing options for enthusiasts. The KTT Cabbage Tofu is celebrated for its impressive tactility and responsiveness, enhanced by a lengthened 22mm spring that provides a swift rebound after actuation. This feature not only aids in a rapid transition between keystrokes but also creates a unique sound profile akin to Mahjong tiles clashing—a delightful auditory experience. On the other hand, the Huano Grape Orange boasts an exceptionally light actuation force of 40g, enabling an effortless typing experience that many find ideal for extended sessions, thanks to its ease of use. While the Cabbage Tofu is perfect for typists who enjoy a more pronounced feedback with a clacky sound, the Grape Orange caters to those who prioritize comfort and minimal resistance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

45g

Actuation force

40g

Bottom-out force

53g

Bottom-out force

50g

Pre-travel

1.90 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Total travel

3.60 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

22mm single-stage spring

Housing materials

The Cabbage Tofu and the Huano Grape Orange exhibit striking similarities in their housing materials, particularly in the use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches benefit from the sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that polycarbonate provides, a result of its relatively stiff nature. This material contributes to a clear and resonant acoustic experience, enhancing the overall auditory feedback during typing. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate not only influences sound but also optimizes the aesthetic appeal with RGB lighting configurations. Given these shared attributes, users can expect a comparable performance in terms of sound clarity and responsiveness from both switches due to their identical top housing material.

Contrasting with their upper sections, the bottom housings of both switches are made of nylon, a material that offers a distinctively different typing experience. Nylon's softer composition allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic brings a sense of warmth to the typing experience, especially notable during bottom-out actions. Because both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, users will find that while the sound signature remains full and rich, the impact of the polycarbonate top will still lend a crispness to the sound when releasing the keys. Therefore, despite the differing materials, the combined effects create a well-rounded auditory profile that balances clarity and depth.

Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing results in a cohesive sound experience in both the Cabbage Tofu and the Huano Grape Orange. The polycarbonate top ensures a bright, resonant sound that is perfect for RGB lighting aesthetics, while the nylon bottom provides a robust and cushioned feel that enhances the tactile feedback during typing. As both switches capitalize on these same materials, they enable a similar performance that caters to enthusiasts seeking both aesthetic appeal and auditory pleasure. Users can expect that whether they opt for the Cabbage Tofu or the Huano Grape Orange, they will experience a well-balanced combination of sharpness and warmth in their keystrokes.

Weight

The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch exhibit distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to varying preferences among users. The actuation force for the Cabbage Tofu is 45 grams, while the Grape Orange is lighter at 40 grams, making the latter more suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience. When it comes to the bottom out force, the Tofu is rated at 53 grams compared to 50 grams for the Grape Orange, with the Grape Orange again offering a lighter experience. This difference in force not only impacts overall typing feel but also endurance during prolonged use; the Grape Orange could be preferred for long gaming sessions or extensive typing tasks, making it ideal for users looking for a lighter touch. Conversely, the heavier forces of the Cabbage Tofu may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile feedback when typing, potentially providing a more robust typing experience. Therefore, while both switches are linear and suitable for various applications, the Grape Orange stands out as the lighter option, while the Cabbage Tofu offers a slightly heavier feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Cabbage Tofu boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the Grape Orange measures at 3.6 mm, which is comparatively shorter. This difference in distance may impact users' typing experiences; the Cabbage Tofu, with its greater travel, offers a more substantial feel and may be favored by those who appreciate a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Grape Orange, with its shorter travel distance, is likely to appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, highlighting the trend towards quicker actuation in modern switches. Therefore, while both switches serve different preferences, the Cabbage Tofu will provide a more pronounced feedback due to its longer travel distance, whereas the Grape Orange will allow for a swifter typing experience.

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 Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.

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 comparing the sound profiles of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Huano Grape Orange linear switches, the Cabbage Tofu produces a clacky sound reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. This high-pitched, crisp auditory feedback adds an engaging layer to the typing experience, appealing particularly to those who enjoy a more vibrant acoustic environment while they type. In contrast, the sound profile of the Grape Orange is not specified; hence, it remains unknown. Nevertheless, it's essential to consider that the overall sound of a switch will also depend on the choice of keyboard board and keycaps used, which can significantly influence the final acoustic output.

In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu is described as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy. This combination suggests a remarkably smooth and responsive typing experience, where users benefit from minimal friction and a quick rebound after actuation, allowing for fast transitions between keystrokes. The Cabbage Tofu's longer spring contributes to this snappy responsiveness, further enhancing its allure for typists seeking precision. The tactile qualities of the Grape Orange are not detailed, leaving any potential attributes regarding its feel unknown. This absence of information means that while the Cabbage Tofu may provide a rich tactile experience, we cannot make a direct comparison regarding the Grape Orange in this aspect.

In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch stands out mainly due to its distinctive sound profile and smooth, responsive feel that many typists may find appealing. Meanwhile, the Huano Grape Orange linear switch lacks documented sound and feel characteristics, leaving much to the imagination regarding its performance. For those seeking acoustic vibrancy and tactile pleasure in their typing experience, the Cabbage Tofu appears to be a compelling choice. If you happen to come across the Grape Orange's details in future research, you could find complementary qualities that might balance the overall typing experience, but as it stands, the two switches offer distinctly different known attributes.

Conclusion

To sum up, your choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific typing needs and preferences. If you favor a typing experience that combines a medium-light feel with enhanced tactility, the Cabbage Tofu would likely serve you better. Its 53-gram bottom out force provides a responsive, lively typing experience characterized by a creamy, silky touch and a clacky sound reminiscent of Mahjong tiles, perfect for those who enjoy a little auditory feedback while they type. Conversely, if you prioritize light typing, extended sessions, and an ultra-smooth journey across the keys, the Grape Orange is your go-to option. With its exceptionally light 50-gram bottom out force, it’s designed for effortless keystrokes that can help reduce fatigue during long typing marathons. Each switch offers a unique appeal; thus, consider your typing style and comfort to guide your decision.

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