KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. TTC Ice
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and TTC Ice stand out as two compelling linear options, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Cabbage Tofu is particularly renowned for its enhanced tactility and responsive design, boasting a lengthened 22mm spring that facilitates a swift rebound after keystrokes. Typists are treated to a distinct auditory experience reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, characterized by a clacky and slightly snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Ice switches present a visually striking crystal-clear design paired with an exceptionally smooth and responsive feel that provides a satisfying bottom-out sound, making them a fantastic choice for both gamers and everyday typists alike. While the Cabbage Tofu emphasizes a lively and polished typing experience, the TTC Ice focuses on a sleek aesthetic and smooth operation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu and TTC Ice switches, a key similarity arises in their top housing material. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which introduces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's relatively rigid structure, allowing for a clearer and more resonant audio output. Additionally, the transparency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal when RGB lighting is integrated, making it a favorite among enthusiasts looking to showcase their keyboard’s illumination. As a result, users can expect a similar auditory experience from the top side of both switches, emphasizing clarity and brightness in sound.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Cabbage Tofu and Ice switches diverge significantly in materials. The Cabbage Tofu employs a nylon bottom housing, renowned for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic of nylon, being a softer plastic, results in a sound that feels rounder and somewhat muted compared to stiffer materials. On the other hand, the Ice’s bottom housing is crafted from polycarbonate, mirroring the properties of the top housing. Thus, the Ice switch will produce a more consistent crispness from both its top and bottom, creating a more uniform sound profile throughout the switch's operation compared to the Cabbage Tofu.
Overall, the differing bottom housings of the Cabbage Tofu and Ice switches create a unique contrast within each switch's sound profile. While both benefit from polycarbonate’s advantages in the top housing, the nylon bottom of the Cabbage Tofu introduces depth and richness, while the polycarbonate bottom of the Ice contributes to a sharper, clearer auditory experience. This distinction means that users will find themselves perceiving varied sensations when typing, as the bottom-out sound and feel will differ significantly, reflecting the qualities of the materials used. Therefore, each switch caters to different preferences, whether one seeks that profound, plush sound or a consistently vibrant and edgy response.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, both switches feature the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, their bottom out forces differ, with the Cabbage Tofu reaching a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Ice requires a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This distinction indicates that the Ice switch provides a firmer feel upon bottoming out, which may be preferred by users who seek a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Cabbage Tofu, with its lighter bottom out force, is likely to be more comfortable for prolonged typing and gaming sessions. Overall, while both switches share the same actuation force, the Cabbage Tofu is the lighter option due to its lower bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Cabbage Tofu measuring 4.0 mm and the Ice at 3.6 mm. This means that the Cabbage Tofu offers a longer travel distance, providing a more pronounced tactile response, which some users may prefer for a more robust typing experience. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Ice switch, at 3.6 mm, caters to those who seek quicker response times, making it a suitable choice for fast-paced gaming scenarios. While both switches have their merits, the choice ultimately boils down to personal preference — those who appreciate a deeper, more immersive keystroke will lean toward the Cabbage Tofu, whereas gamers or users who favor swift actions might opt for the Ice switch.
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 Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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
When comparing the sound profiles of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Ice linear switches, the Cabbage Tofu offers a distinctively clacky and high-pitched auditory experience reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. This sharp and snappy sound provides a lively aural sensation that many typists enjoy. On the other hand, the TTC Ice switches do not have a specific sound profile mentioned, but they are noted for their satisfying bottom-out sound, which suggests a smoother acoustic feel. While you can expect a premium typing experience with both, the clear clack of the Cabbage Tofu gives it a unique sound characteristic that may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced acoustic feedback.
In terms of feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch excels with descriptors such as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy. This range indicates a luxurious and smooth typing experience, characterized by minimal friction and a lively responsiveness due to its longer 22mm spring. The sensation is akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, providing a refined and enjoyable engagement with each stroke. The TTC Ice switches, however, do not have specific descriptors for their feel, limiting the ability to compare them fully in this aspect. If the Ice switches are designed to offer smooth and responsive interactions, some typists may find the experience satisfying, but they may lack the nuanced characteristics the Cabbage Tofu offers.
In conclusion, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and TTC Ice linear switches provide engaging typing experiences, but they cater to slightly different preferences. The Cabbage Tofu stands out with its distinctive sound and rich tactile feel, offering a beloved combination of auditory and haptic feedback that many users appreciate. On the other hand, the Ice switches, while lacking specific descriptions, may still provide a smooth and premium experience. Ultimately, if you prioritize sound, the Cabbage Tofu will give you a more resonant auditory experience, while the Ice might appeal to those who appreciate a more subdued and elegant sound. When making a choice, consider what aspects are most important for your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Ice linear switches ultimately hinges on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you're someone who enjoys a lighter touch and seeks a more rapid transition between keystrokes, particularly for fast typing or gaming sessions, the Cabbage Tofu is your go-to option. Its 53-gram bottom-out force, combined with the unique sound reminiscent of Mahjong tiles, presents a delightful auditory experience while providing a creamy, polished feel that glides smoothly under your fingers. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust and solid typing experience with moderate resistance, the TTC Ice switch, featuring a 60-gram bottom-out force, may be the better fit. Its crystal-clear design and satisfying bottom-out sound cater to both gaming and everyday tasks, offering a balance of smoothness and responsiveness. In essence, whether you prioritize speed and a lighter touch with the Cabbage Tofu or seek a premium feel and solid resistance with the Ice, both switches excel in their respective niches, ensuring that you’ll find a satisfying option regardless of your choice.
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