KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. TTC Iron
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Iron switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Iron both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cabbage Tofu is praised for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring that provides a swift rebound after actuation. Typists will appreciate the quick transition between keystrokes and the sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the TTC Iron stands out for its distinctive clacky sound signature that adds an aural satisfaction to typing. With a remarkably light actuation and buttery smooth travel, the TTC Iron is an enticing choice for users seeking precision and pleasure in every keystroke. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Cabbage Tofu and the Iron both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Cabbage Tofu's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Iron's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while POM offers a unique look and feel. Both materials enhance the overall typing experience, but cater to different preferences for sound and style.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Cabbage Tofu utilizes nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Iron's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and muted sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone, while POM offers a unique sound experience with its deep and muted characteristics. Despite the differences in material, both bottom housings enhance the overall typing experience by influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice between the Cabbage Tofu and the Iron will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. While the Cabbage Tofu's combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing offers a sharp and full sound profile, the Iron's POM top and bottom housings provide a unique and deep sound experience. Both switches excel in enhancing the typing experience, but cater to different preferences for sound and style. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, more muted tone, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to their overall performance.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, it is evident that both switches have relatively low actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches. The Cabbage Tofu has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Iron has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience with a minimal amount of force required to activate the keys. The Cabbage Tofu provides a slightly more pronounced feedback due to its slightly heavier actuation force, making it suitable for those who prefer a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Iron switch offers a lighter touch, ideal for users who prefer a gentler typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for a lighter or slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Iron switch has the shorter travel distance, making it a good choice for those who prefer a quicker and more responsive key press. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may be more suitable for those who enjoy a deeper and more tactile typing experience. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Cabbage Tofu being slightly longer than the Iron. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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
In terms of sound, the Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the TTC Iron linear switch also provides a clacky sound signature, resonating with each press. Both switches share the same clacky characteristic, so if you enjoy sharp and snappy sound when typing, you can expect similar results from either switch.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cabbage Tofu is described as creamy, silky, and polished, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with a swift rebound after actuation. In contrast, the TTC Iron switch is known for being easy-to-press and offering a mild typing experience with buttery smooth travel. While the descriptors differ slightly between the two switches, they both aim to provide a comfortable and fatigue-free typing experience. If you prefer a smoother typing feel with minimal resistance, both switches should meet your preferences.
Overall, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities tailored to different preferences. The Cabbage Tofu excels in providing a swift rebound and creamy typing experience with a clacky sound profile, while the TTC Iron switch boasts ease of pressing and a mild typing feel with a pronounced clacky sound signature. Depending on whether you prioritize a specific sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard switch, both options provide unique qualities to enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch or the TTC Iron linear switch, it really comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize improved tactility and responsiveness, along with a swift rebound after actuation and a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, then the Cabbage Tofu may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a pronounced clacky sound signature that resonates with each press, along with swift and fatigue-free typing sessions, then the TTC Iron could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what features and characteristics align best with your typing needs and preferences.
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