KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Aflion Iceberg

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up for comparison are the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Aflion Iceberg switches. The Cabbage Tofu is known for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring. This allows for a quick rebound after actuation, resulting in a seamless transition between keystrokes. Users have described the sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu as reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, and it falls into categories such as clacky, creamy, high-pitched, polished, silky, and snappy. On the other hand, the Iceberg switches from Aflion, although coming from a relatively new switch manufacturer, exemplify the high-quality switches the company produces. These switches boast a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel, attributed to their two-stage spring. The Iceberg switches are categorized as clacky, high-pitched, snappy, feathery, and subtle. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you the best.

By the numbers

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Cabbage Tofu and Aflion Iceberg both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, polycarbonate is translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, both keyboards will provide a similar sound and aesthetic experience due to the shared use of polycarbonate in their top housing.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the KTT Cabbage Tofu utilizes nylon, whereas the Aflion Iceberg also incorporates nylon in its bottom housing. Despite both keyboards using the same material, nylon, their impact on the overall sound profile differs. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer nature allows for greater sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, both keyboards will deliver a comparable typing experience in terms of the sound produced, thanks to the shared use of nylon in their bottom housing.

In terms of functionality, the difference in top and bottom housing materials plays a role in the overall typing experience. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more pronounced, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the key. Conversely, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the polycarbonate top housing of both keyboards may produce a similar sound on key release, the nylon bottom housing will result in variations in the bottom-out sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Cabbage Tofu has an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly higher than the Iceberg's 37 grams. This means that the Cabbage Tofu requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Cabbage Tofu also surpasses the Iceberg with 53 grams compared to 45 grams. This indicates that the Cabbage Tofu provides a more substantial typing experience, as it requires more force to fully press down.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Iceberg with its lower actuation and bottom out forces would be a suitable choice. This allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for those using the keyboard for extended work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may be inclined to opt for the Cabbage Tofu. Its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a satisfying resistance during keystrokes. Both switches offer distinct characteristics, catering to different preferences and typing styles.

Travel distance

The KTT Cabbage Tofu and Aflion Iceberg linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a consistent and familiar typing experience, as the distance you feel when you press down on a key is equal for both switches. Whether you choose the Cabbage Tofu or the Iceberg, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Aflion Iceberg switches produce a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed. The sound is described as crisp, bright, and percussive. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, if you choose the same board and keycaps for both switches, you can expect similar results in terms of sound.

In terms of feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch is described as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy. Creamy switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, while polished switches have a refined finish for sleek key travel. Silky switches provide exceptional smoothness and minimize resistance, and snappy switches are super responsive. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle. Snappy switches are super responsive due to longer or dual-staged springs, feathery switches are exceptionally light to press and reduce finger fatigue, and subtle switches have a gentle resistance and a non-resonant sound signature suitable for shared spaces.

Considering all the available information, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Aflion Iceberg switches offer desirable qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches produce a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, and provide a satisfying typing experience. The KTT Cabbage Tofu switch stands out with its creamy, polished, silky, and snappy qualities, while the Aflion Iceberg switch offers snappy, feathery, and subtle characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel. It is recommended to consider factors such as the desired level of smoothness, responsiveness, and actuation force when making a decision.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-light switch with improved tactility and responsiveness, then the Cabbage Tofu linear switch is the one for you. With its lengthened 22mm spring, you'll experience a swift rebound after actuation, allowing for a quicker transition between keystrokes. The sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu can be described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu offers a creamy and polished sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you prefer a light switch with a fulfilling feel, then the Iceberg linear switch is the better choice. The Iceberg offers a satisfying smoothness and a gentle but still light typing feel. It has a two-stage spring, making it snappy and responsive. The sound profile of the Iceberg is also clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound. Ultimately, the decision between the Cabbage Tofu and the Iceberg switch depends on your preference for bottom out force, tactility, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn more

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more