KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch to the Dareu Holly tactile switch, it is evident that each offers a distinctive typing experience. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring which allows for a swift rebound after actuation. Typists will appreciate the quicker transition between keystrokes and the sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly switch distinguishes itself with a medium 50g actuation force, offering a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements for a balanced typing experience. While the Cabbage Tofu switch is categorized as ['Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Snappy'], the Holly switch is categorized as ['Chirpy', 'Clacky', 'Neutral']. Both switches have their own strengths and cater to different preferences, so it is essential to dive deeper beyond generalities to decide on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Dareu Holly utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that enhances sound resonance. The translucency of polycarbonate is also ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, both switches offer similar results due to their shared top housing material.
On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu and the Holly differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Cabbage Tofu features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. Similarly, the Holly also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience with a deeper sound profile that adds to the overall tactile feedback of the switch.
When considering both the top and bottom housing materials of the switches, the impact on sound and feel is split between the two components. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing the key. Despite their differences in bottom housing materials, both the Cabbage Tofu and the Holly offer a balanced typing experience with varying sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The actuation force of the Cabbage Tofu is 45 grams, while the Holly has an actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the Holly requires a slightly higher force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Cabbage Tofu. In terms of bottom out force, the Cabbage Tofu has a force of 53 grams, while the force for the Holly is unknown. This makes the Cabbage Tofu slightly heavier when it comes to bottoming out. Weight plays a significant role in user preference, with lighter switches being more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while heavier switches provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Cabbage Tofu and the Holly will come down to individual preference in actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch is the same, both measuring at 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users can expect a similar amount of travel distance from top to bottom. This similarity allows for consistent typing experiences and tactile feedback for users who prefer either linear or tactile switches. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer the same level of key press depth, making them suitable options for those looking for a standard travel distance in their mechanical keyboard switches.
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 Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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 Cabbage Tofu linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly tactile switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Cabbage Tofu being sharper and crisper, while the Holly provides a mix of chirpy and clacky tones, catering to users looking for a more varied sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Cabbage Tofu linear switch is described as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced smoothness. On the contrary, information on the Dareu Holly tactile switch's tactile feel is not provided. However, given its medium actuation force, we can infer that it might offer a tactile bump and a responsive typing experience. Therefore, while the Cabbage Tofu is known for its smooth and snappy feel, the Dareu Holly might offer a tactile response that some users prefer.
In conclusion, when comparing the subjective qualities of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, we find that they differ in both sound and feel. The Cabbage Tofu switch offers a sharp and high-pitched sound profile with a smooth and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly switch provides a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, catering to users looking for a balanced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with the Cabbage Tofu offering a sharper sound and smoother feel, while the Dareu Holly provides a more varied sound profile and potentially tactile typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a swift rebound after actuation for quicker transitions between keystrokes, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch would be a great choice for you. Additionally, if you appreciate a clacky sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, this switch would be a good fit. On the other hand, if you desire a medium actuation force switch with a unique sound signature combining chirpy and clacky elements, the Dareu Holly tactile switch would be more suitable for you. Overall, consider your preferences for bottom out force, typing experience, and sound profile when deciding between these two switches.
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