KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Gateron Ink Yellow

Overview

Introducing the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Ink Yellow, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer different experiences while typing. The Cabbage Tofu switch is best known for its improved tactility and responsiveness. With a lengthened 22mm spring, typists will enjoy a swift rebound after actuation, allowing for a quick transition between keystrokes. The sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu switch is reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, giving it a unique and distinctive sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch offers a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those who want a typing experience between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. This switch provides a pleasant smoothness and clackiness, giving a satisfying feel to each keystroke. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics and preferences, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches showcase distinct characteristics. In terms of the top housing, the Cabbage Tofu utilizes polycarbonate, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the transparent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. While both materials contribute to achieving a distinct sound, they differ in their specific qualities.

Moving on to the bottom housings, the Cabbage Tofu employs nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. Due to its relatively softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Comparatively, the Ink Yellow incorporates Gateron's INK blend bottom housing, which is characterized by a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, described as clacky. Both materials impact the overall sound produced by the switches, but the differences in softness and sound absorption give them unique qualities.

Although the top and bottom housings of the switches vary, their respective materials contribute differently to the overall sound and feel of typing. When pressing down on either switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing become more apparent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing exerts a greater influence on the sound generated when releasing a key. Despite these differences, the bottom housing of the Cabbage Tofu and the Ink Yellow's INK blend both contribute to a satisfying and higher-pitched sound experience, offering similar results in terms of sound profile.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, a noticeable contrast can be observed. The Cabbage Tofu features a relatively lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow switch requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and has a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch.

For those who prefer a lightweight typing experience, the Cabbage Tofu switch would be a suitable choice. This lighter actuation force allows for prolonged typing sessions, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Ink Yellow switch appeals to individuals who desire a more substantial push feel. The heavier forces required for actuation and bottoming out provide a tactile and satisfying typing experience.

Though the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two switches, it is important to note that both can still offer similar results in terms of keystroke activation. While the Cabbage Tofu switch requires less force, it may still provide a responsive typing experience. Similarly, the Ink Yellow switch, with its heavier force requirements, can also deliver quick keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between these switches would depend on personal preference, with weight being a crucial factor to consider.

Travel distance

The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0mm, while the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm. Comparing the two, the Cabbage Tofu has a slightly longer travel distance. Generally, a travel distance of 4.0mm is considered the most traditional, while 3.0mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances are becoming more popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Ink Yellow with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice. On the other hand, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt, so if you prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Cabbage Tofu with its longer travel distance would be suitable. Ultimately, it depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile. When pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offers a more neutral and clacky sound. It produces a sharper and crisp sound when pressed, suitable for those who prefer a brighter sound profile. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches provide a distinct sound experience, with the Cabbage Tofu offering a clackier and higher-pitched sound, while the Ink Yellow provides a neutral and slightly clacky sound.

When it comes to feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch offers a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. The switch is designed to be smooth and buttery, offering a glide-like sensation when typing. It provides reduced friction and smooth key travel, resulting in an overall refined typing experience. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch is known for its snappy feel, thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs, which enhances the responsiveness of the switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. It provides a more gentle typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable to most users. It also features a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, with the Cabbage Tofu emphasizing creaminess and snappiness, while the Ink Yellow focuses on mildness and refinement.

In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cabbage Tofu provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, best suited for those looking for a crisp and bright sound. It also offers a creamy, polished, and snappy typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow switch delivers a more neutral and clacky sound, suitable for users who prefer a moderate sound profile. It offers a mild and polished typing experience, prioritizing a gentle and refined feel. Overall, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience, with the Cabbage Tofu focusing more on snappiness and high-pitched sound, while the Ink Yellow provides a more neutral and mild experience. Depending on individual preferences, users can choose the switch that aligns with their desired sound and feel.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force and improved tactility, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch would be a great choice for you. With its lengthened spring, you can expect a swift rebound after actuation, allowing for quicker transitions between keystrokes. The sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.

On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a shorter travel, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch would be more suitable for you. This switch offers a typing experience between that on a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, showcasing a pleasant smoothness and clackiness. The sound profile of the Ink Yellow is described as neutral and clacky, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed.

When it comes to the feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch is known for its creamy, polished, silky, and snappy characteristics, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. Alternatively, the Ink Yellow switch has a more mild feeling, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most.

Overall, the choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch depends on your preference for bottom out force, travel distance, sound profile, and feel. Consider your typing style and the type of sound and feeling you desire, and you can make an informed decision on which switch would best suit your needs.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more