KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Hibiscus stand out as two captivating options, each with unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The KTT Cabbage Tofu, renowned for its improved tactility and responsiveness, boasts a longer 22mm spring that facilitates a swift rebound after actuation, making it an ideal choice for typists who value quick keystroke transitions. Its sound profile, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, adds a distinct clacky and creamy auditory experience that many find satisfying. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus excels in delivering a smooth typing experience that is unparalleled among mechanical switches, featuring a notably light actuation force and an invitingly clacky, poppy sound signature. This makes it an excellent option for those who prioritize ease of use and a stellar auditory feedback while typing. Both switches offer appealing qualities, but as preferences vary, it’s essential to look beyond these generalities to determine which switch aligns best with your individual typing style and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Hibiscus, notable differences emerge, particularly in their top housings. The Cabbage Tofu utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This characteristic makes polycarbonate particularly advantageous for RGB lighting setups, as its translucency enhances the aesthetic appeal of illuminated switches. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus features a nylon top housing that yields a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon contributes to its sound-absorbing properties, generating a duller and rounder auditory experience. This contrast between the clarity of polycarbonate and the warmth of nylon directly influences the overall sound signature of each switch.
Despite the differences in their top housings, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Hibiscus share a commonality in their bottom housings, both using nylon. This consistency brings a harmonious aspect to their sound profiles, as nylon’s acoustic properties remain constant across both switches. Typing on both switches will evoke a similar feel, as the nylon bottom housing effectively absorbs sound and contributes to a smooth and cushioned bottom-out experience. This shared material ensures that regardless of the tonal differences brought forth by their respective top housings, both switches can invoke a satisfying and rounded sound when pressed.
The contrasting top housing materials highlight the way varying compositions can shape the auditory experience, while the uniform bottom housing material establishes a common ground between the two switches. Users seeking a brighter sound may gravitate towards the Cabbage Tofu owing to its polycarbonate top, while those favoring a warmer tone will likely prefer the HMX Hibiscus with its nylon top. However, when pressing down on either switch, the experience will feel similar due to the nylon bottoms, emphasizing how the unique qualities of each housing material work together to create a cohesive feel, but distinctly different sound profiles during key presses and releases.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that could influence a user's typing experience. The Cabbage Tofu features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus is lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a more suitable option for those who prefer a softer feel during extended typing or gaming sessions. While both switches require a lesser force to actuate compared to bottoming out, the Hibiscus is the lighter option overall. Users looking for a firm and substantial typing experience might find the Cabbage Tofu preferable due to its heavier forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Hibiscus linear switches, the Cabbage Tofu has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Hibiscus measures at 3.5 mm. This makes the Hibiscus the shorter option, appealing to gamers or those seeking quicker response times due to its reduced travel distance. In contrast, the Cabbage Tofu, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, may provide a more pronounced tactile experience for users who prefer a deeper key press, avoiding the abrupt sensation often associated with shorter travel. Choosing between these two switches ultimately hinges on individual preference for responsiveness versus depth in keystrokes.
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 HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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
The sound profile of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch features a clacky and high-pitched quality, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. This creates a sharp and percussive auditory experience that is both crisp and bright, appealing especially to those who prefer a more vibrant typing sound. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus switch offers a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. While both switches provide a lively acoustic feedback during typing, the Hibiscus may lean slightly more towards a crisp and playful auditory experience. As sound is also influenced by the board and keycaps used, users should expect some variance based on their particular setup.
When it comes to feel, the Cabbage Tofu offers an impressive array of descriptors, including creamy, polished, silky, and snappy. This suggests a very smooth and refined typing experience with a quick response, allowing for an effortless transition between keystrokes. The longer 22mm spring height contributes to its snappy characteristic, making the keystrokes feel vibrant and engaging. On the other hand, details about the feel of the HMX Hibiscus are not specified, leaving a gap in information. Users who prioritize a creamy, polished typing sensation may gravitate toward the Cabbage Tofu for its established smoothness and responsiveness.
In conclusion, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and HMX Hibiscus linear switches cater to particular preferences in sound and feel. The Cabbage Tofu stands out with its lively, clacky sound profile and a wealth of descriptors that highlight its smooth, responsive typing experience. Meanwhile, while the Hibiscus switch promises a similarly engaging auditory experience, its tactile feedback remains less defined. Ultimately, those seeking vibrant keystrokes with ample smoothness may find satisfaction in either switch, though the Cabbage Tofu provides a more documented typing feel. Experimentation with varying setups will help users achieve their desired results, regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, your specific preferences and typing style will play a crucial role. If you’re looking for a switch that offers a balance of responsiveness and a unique sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, then the Cabbage Tofu with its medium-light actuation force of 53 grams might be the perfect fit for you. Its creamy, polished, and silky feel, combined with a lively snappy response, makes it an excellent choice for both typists and gamers who appreciate quick transitions and a tactile experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize an ultra-light actuation for effortless typing and enjoy a distinctly clacky and poppy sound, the HMX Hibiscus switch with its lighter 48 grams bottom-out force would serve you well. The Hibiscus offers an incredibly smooth and pristine typing experience, making it a gem among linear switches for those who prefer a less tactile but more fluid motion. Ultimately, it comes down to whether you value the tactile feedback and snappy response of the Cabbage Tofu or the smoothness and lighter feel of the Hibiscus; both have their unique charms to enhance your keyboard experience.
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