KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring that allows for a swift rebound after actuation, resulting in a seamless typing experience with a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus switch offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. While the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as 'Clacky,' 'Snappy,' and 'Polished,' the Lotus switch lacks specific categorizations. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Lotus, we can see that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity suggests that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel. However, the Cabbage Tofu stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This makes the Cabbage Tofu more suitable for users looking for a switch with a more clear and resonant sound.
On the other hand, the Lotus boasts a nylon top housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This makes the Lotus ideal for users who prefer a typing experience with a rounder and duller sound. While the bottom housing of both switches will have a significant impact on the overall sound profile, the top housing of each switch will influence the sound differently when pressing and releasing a key. The use of different housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches allows for a unique typing experience that may appeal to different preferences.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Lotus will come down to personal preference in sound profile when typing. The Cabbage Tofu's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offers a crisper and more resonant sound, while the Lotus's nylon top and bottom housing provide a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so users can choose the one that best suits their typing style and preferences in sound.
Weight
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch both have a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Cabbage Tofu requires a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a bit more substantial in feel compared to the Lotus, which has a bottom out force of 50 grams. In terms of weight, the Lotus is the lighter option overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lotus switch, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might gravitate towards the Cabbage Tofu. Ultimately, both switches offer a smooth linear action and are great choices for different preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is 4 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Cabbage Tofu has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lotus. The Cabbage Tofu's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a balance between responsiveness and depth. On the other hand, the Lotus's shorter 3.5 mm travel distance may provide quicker response times, making it a preferred choice for gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - whether you prioritize a faster response time with a shorter travel distance, or a more substantial keypress with a longer travel distance.
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 HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
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 is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. This sharp and snappy sound provides a crisp and bright auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch is not described in terms of sound, so it's difficult to directly compare their auditory qualities. However, based on the information provided, it seems that while the Cabbage Tofu is more on the sharp and snappy side, the Lotus might offer a brighter and resonant sound that enhances the typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is described as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy. This combination of smoothness, refined finish, enhanced smoothness, and responsiveness results in a typing experience akin to gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. The 22mm lengthened spring in the Cabbage Tofu switch also adds to the snappy feel, making each keystroke feel alive and responsive. Unfortunately, the feel of the HMX Lotus linear switch is not described in the provided information, so a direct comparison in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience is not possible.
In conclusion, based on the available information, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a unique sound profile that is clacky and high-pitched, with a tactile feel that is creamy, polished, silky, and snappy. The HMX Lotus linear switch, while lacking specific descriptions in terms of sound and feel, seems to provide a bright and resonant sound with a super bouncy feeling. If you are looking for a switch with a sharp and snappy sound profile and a smooth, responsive typing experience, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch might be the better choice. However, if you prefer a brighter sound with a bouncy feel, the HMX Lotus switch could also be a great option. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force at 53 grams and enjoy a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, the Cabbage Tofu may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force at 50 grams and enjoy a creamy, polished, or silky typing feel with a bouncy, resonant sound, the Lotus may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose based on what suits your typing style and sound preference best.
Mentioned in this article
