KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. KTT Laurel

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Laurel. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring. This feature enables faster transitions between keystrokes, providing a swift rebound after actuation. Additionally, typists may appreciate its unique sound profile that resembles Mahjong tiles colliding, offering a range of sensations including clacky, creamy, high-pitched, polished, silky, and snappy. On the other hand, the Laurel switch offers a medium-light linear experience, striking a perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort. Its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design contribute to its overall smooth typing experience. Furthermore, its sound profile leans towards a subtle low-pitched tone. While these general pointers provide an initial glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, it is essential to delve deeper into their specifics to determine which one best suits your individual preferences and needs.

By the numbers

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

KTT Laurel Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Laurel, the main difference lies in the top housing. The Cabbage Tofu utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiff plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Laurel employs a POM top housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials have their unique sound characteristics, the polycarbonate in the Cabbage Tofu offers a brighter and more vibrant tone, while the POM in the Laurel produces a deeper and more subdued sound.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both keyboards differ in the material used. The Cabbage Tofu features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's softness allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. Similarly, the Laurel also has a POM bottom housing, contributing to a pleasing and unique sound. It shares the same deep notes as the nylon housing but with a relatively more muted aspect. While both housings create similar deeper tones, the Cabbage Tofu's nylon bottom housing may offer a slightly more rounded sound profile compared to the Laurel's POM housing.

Considering the impact on sound and feel, the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials are split between the two keyboards. When pressing down a key, the characteristics of the bottom housing will be more noticeable, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the nylon housing in the Cabbage Tofu will have a greater influence on the typing experience, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when keys are pressed. Conversely, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Thus, the polycarbonate top housing in the Cabbage Tofu will create a sharper and crisper sound when keys are released. In comparison, the POM top housing of the Laurel will have a more subdued and muted effect on the release sound.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Cabbage Tofu is slightly heavier than the Laurel. The Cabbage Tofu has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which falls into the medium-light range. On the other hand, the Laurel has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a lighter option.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Laurel would be a suitable choice as it requires slightly less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. This can be beneficial for individuals who type for extended periods, such as in work or gaming scenarios. The lighter weight allows for longer typing sessions without excessive strain or fatigue.

However, some individuals may prefer a more substantial and satisfying typing experience that requires a stronger push feel. For these individuals, the Cabbage Tofu would be a better option, as it has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force. The additional force needed to trigger a keystroke and fully press down can provide a more pronounced tactile feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience.

In conclusion, while both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Laurel linear switches offer reliable and smooth operation, they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Laurel is the lighter option with lower force requirements, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu provides a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a stronger and more tactile feel.

Travel distance

The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Cabbage Tofu offers a more traditional travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper feeling when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Laurel provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be favored by gamers who prioritize faster response times. Both options have their advantages, and the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences regarding the depth and responsiveness of the switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is best described as clacky and high-pitched. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, similar to the sound of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch has a subtly low-pitched sound profile. It offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

As for feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch offers a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. It provides a smooth and buttery sensation, like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. This can be attributed to lubrication applied at the factory and specific materials used for the switch. Additionally, the longer 22mm spring enhances its responsiveness, giving a snappy feel to each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel switch is also described as snappy, displaying super responsiveness due to longer or dual-staged springs.

Overall, the Cabbage Tofu and Laurel switches have their own unique qualities. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out with its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, along with a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Laurel switch offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile and the same snappy feel. Both switches prioritize responsiveness and comfort, making them suitable choices for different preferences. However, it's essential to consider other factors such as personal preference, keyboard setup, and keycaps to ensure the desired typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch would be a great choice. It offers improved tactility and responsiveness thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring, providing a swift rebound after actuation and allowing for quicker transitions between keystrokes. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, making it suitable for those who prefer a crisp and bright sound when typing.

On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the KTT Laurel switch would be worth considering. With its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, the Laurel switch strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. It offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile, which is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches.

Both switches share the descriptor of being snappy, meaning they are super responsive and make the typing experience feel more alive. However, the Cabbage Tofu switch is also described as creamy, polished, and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Laurel switch, on the other hand, is only described as snappy, focusing on its responsiveness.

Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Laurel switches depends on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider whether you prefer a medium-light or light bottom out force, a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, or a subtly low-pitched sound profile. Additionally, think about whether you prioritize a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience or simply value snappiness. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn more

KTT Laurel Linear

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

Learn more