KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. KTT Grapefruit

Overview

Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Grapefruit. The Cabbage Tofu switch is acclaimed for its exceptional tactility and responsiveness. With its lengthened 22mm spring, typists will experience a swift rebound after actuation, resulting in a seamless transition between keystrokes. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch emits a unique sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, offering a clacky, creamy, high-pitched, polished, silky, and snappy experience. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switch offers a different typing experience. These linear switches provide a soft and light touch, accompanied by a distinctive sound profile that can be described as "baritone" without reaching bass levels. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and polished, the Grapefruit switch appeals to those seeking a more subdued typing experience. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your specific needs.

By the numbers

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

KTT Grapefruit Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

$3.41 per 10

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Housing materials

The KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Grapefruit share the same polycarbonate top housing material. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound experience. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and visual effects when using either the Cabbage Tofu or the Grapefruit.

In terms of the housing material for the bottom of the switches, the Cabbage Tofu utilizes nylon, while the Grapefruit also employs nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience. Both switches benefit from this characteristic, providing users with a satisfying typing experience that delivers a rich and resonant audio feedback.

It is important to note that the qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switches. When pressing down on either the Cabbage Tofu or the Grapefruit, the impact and resulting sound will be influenced by the bottom housing. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will be influenced by the characteristics of the top housing. Therefore, even though the housing materials differ between the top and bottom, users can still expect similar performance and overall sound experience from both switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, it is apparent that they have identical values. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, resulting in a medium-light feel. This means that whether you opt for the Cabbage Tofu or the Grapefruit, you can expect similar results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke and the pressure needed to press the key down completely.

Considering the weight of the switches, it is worth noting that some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for extended periods without fatigue. This is especially advantageous for those who use the keyboard for work or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are users who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, switches with heavier forces would be more suitable. However, since both the Cabbage Tofu and Grapefruit switches have the same actuation force and bottom out force, they can provide a similar experience in terms of weight. The weight preference would depend solely on the individual's typing style and personal preference.

Travel distance

The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same 4 mm distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent and comfortable typing experience in terms of the travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound. The sharp and snappy sound it creates can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, which tends to be more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. If you prefer a richer and bassier sound, the Grapefruit switch is a good choice. However, it's important to note that the sound of the switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Cabbage Tofu and Grapefruit switches are described as polished. This means that they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek and enjoyable typing experience. The use of materials and potential factory lubing contribute to reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch is also characterized as creamy and snappy. The creaminess of the switch provides a smooth and buttery typing experience, where the keys effortlessly melt into each keystroke. The snappiness, on the other hand, refers to the super responsiveness of the switch, thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs. While the Grapefruit switch does not have specific descriptors for its feel, it can be assumed that it shares similar qualities of smoothness and polished feel due to its similarity in description.

Taking all the available information into account, it can be concluded that the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Grapefruit switches offer different subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Cabbage Tofu switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound, along with a creamy and snappy feel. In contrast, the Grapefruit switch produces a low-pitched sound and offers a polished feel. Both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a sharper sound and a creamy feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more bass-heavy sound and enjoy a polished feel, the Grapefruit switch would be a suitable option.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that offers improved tactility and responsiveness, with a swift rebound after actuation, then the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is the choice for you. The Cabbage Tofu switch is best known for its quick transition between keystrokes, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring. It also produces a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which may appeal to those who prefer a crisp and bright sound when typing.

On the other hand, if you prefer a soft and light typing feel, along with a low-pitched sound profile that has a bass-heavy and mellow tone, then the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is the better option for you. The Grapefruit switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience, thanks to their polished finish. They are also described as having a neutral feel, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced typists in various settings.

Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and KTT Grapefruit switches depends on your personal preferences. If you value enhanced tactility and a clacky, high-pitched sound, go for the Cabbage Tofu. If you prefer a soft and light typing feel with a low-pitched sound profile, the Grapefruit is the way to go. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a smooth and refined typing experience thanks to the polished finish on both switches.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn more

KTT Grapefruit Linear

$3.41 per 10

Learn more