KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Zuoce Lavender both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cabbage Tofu, a linear switch, stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring, providing a quick rebound after actuation. This results in a smooth and swift transition between keystrokes with a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender, also a linear switch, prides itself on its exceptional smoothness right out of the box, attributed to its proprietary Ly blend. Users can expect a crisp and clacky sound signature, enhancing the overall typing experience. While the Cabbage Tofu may appeal to those who prefer a more tactile and snappy feel, the Lavender is ideal for those who prioritize ease of pressing and a satisfying clacky sound. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and Zuoce Lavender both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Cabbage Tofu incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile, ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Lavender utilizes a POM top housing, producing a deeper and more muted sound. While the top housings differ in material and resulting sound, both offer distinctive auditory experiences.
When it comes to the bottom housings, the Cabbage Tofu's nylon material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer properties that absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. Conversely, the Lavender's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deep and muted sound profile. Both switches share a similar sound outcome from the bottom housing, emphasizing the richness and depth in sound production that these materials offer.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Zuoce Lavender hinges on the sound profile preferences of the user. The Cabbage Tofu's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a balance between sharpness and depth in sound, while the Lavender's POM housing materials lean towards a more muted and deeper sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, more rounded tone, both switches offer unique sonic qualities to cater to different typing experiences.
Weight
The actuation force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is 45 grams, slightly lighter than the Zuoce Lavender linear switch's 48 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 53 grams, making them equal in terms of maximum force required. The Cabbage Tofu offers a slightly lighter typing experience, which may be preferred for longer typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Lavender switch provides a slightly stronger push feel, giving users a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Lavender switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Cabbage Tofu switch. The difference of 0.6 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and performance of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Lavender switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress experience may opt for the Cabbage Tofu switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 it comes to sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile that can be described as sharp, crisp, and percussive, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch also provides a clacky sound signature, making each keystroke distinctly satisfying. Both switches offer a similar clacky sound profile, ensuring that users will get comparable auditory feedback when typing.
In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch gives a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. The smooth and buttery feel combined with reduced friction and enhanced smoothness makes typing on this switch akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. In contrast, the Zuoce Lavender switch offers an easy-to-press typing experience with gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. While the typing experiences differ in terms of the level of resistance and feedback, both switches provide a responsive and comfortable typing feel for users.
Overall, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Zuoce Lavender linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a sharper and high-pitched sound with a creamy and snappy typing experience or a clacky sound with an easy-to-press feel, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you prioritize improved tactility and responsiveness with a swift rebound after actuation, along with a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, the Cabbage Tofu may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value exceptional smoothness right out of the box, along with a crisp and clacky sound signature for a satisfying keystroke experience, the Lavender switch would be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, the Cabbage Tofu offers these qualities, while the Lavender switch provides an easy-to-press and low-impact typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which characteristics align best with your typing preferences and requirements.
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