KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) are two noteworthy options, both classified as linear switches yet each offering unique characteristics. The Cabbage Tofu switch is celebrated for its enhanced tactility and responsiveness, featuring a lengthened 22mm spring that provides a swift rebound after actuation, making it an excellent choice for typists who prioritize speed and efficiency. Its sound profile evokes the delightful clack of Mahjong tiles, characterized by a clacky, creamy, and snappy feel that adds a sense of playfulness to typing. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) comes with a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, providing a satisfying bouncy sensation with each keystroke. Its bright, resonant sound makes for an engaging and lively typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy rich auditory feedback. Each switch caters to different preferences—whether you seek the quick response of the Cabbage Tofu or the weighted feedback of the Lotus (Heavy). However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

HMX Lotus (Heavy) Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Lotus (Heavy), we see notable differences in the composition of their top housings, with the Cabbage Tofu utilizing polycarbonate and the Lotus (Heavy) employing nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Cabbage Tofu is designed to enhance sound clarity, delivering a sharper, higher-pitched output due to its stiffer nature. This quality not only makes the switch resonate more vividly but also makes it particularly suitable for RGB lighting applications, thanks to its translucency. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Lotus (Heavy) yields a deeper and more dimensional sound profile, characterized by a rounder tone. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a less pronounced top-out sound compared to the polycarbonate option.

On the other hand, both switches share the same material for their bottom housings, as both the Cabbage Tofu and the Lotus (Heavy) feature nylon constructions. This shared material results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that is consistent across both models when keystrokes are bottomed out. The nylon's sound-absorbing properties contribute to a more muted and pleasant auditory experience during typing, creating a uniformity in the bottom housing's performance regardless of variances in top housing materials. As such, while the Cabbage Tofu offers a distinct sound when letting go of keys due to its polycarbonate top, the tactile and acoustic feedback upon bottoming out remains consistent with the velvety quality that nylon imparts.

In summary, the major differences between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) lie in their top housing materials, which significantly affect the sound profile upon releasing the keys. The Cabbage Tofu’s polycarbonate top accentuates clarity and brightness, whereas the Lotus (Heavy)'s nylon top promotes a warmer, fuller sound. Nevertheless, both switches benefit from the sound-dampening qualities of their nylon bottom housings. Therefore, while each switch delivers unique auditory experiences due to the differing top materials, the deeper and rounder tonal characteristics are unified in their design, particularly during the actuation phase of typing.

Weight

The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch exhibit notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Cabbage Tofu features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, which makes it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming where ease of pressing is preferred. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) comes with a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, marking it as medium, thus appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Consequently, if one is seeking a lighter switch for comfort and less fatigue, the Cabbage Tofu would be the better choice, while those favoring a more robust feel should lean towards the HMX Lotus. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces indicate that while both switches can serve specific user preferences, the Cabbage Tofu is the lighter option and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is the heavier one.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Cabbage Tofu boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional standard, providing a more pronounced tactile experience as you press down on the key. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, catering to users who may prioritize quicker response times, particularly in gaming scenarios. Ultimately, if you value a more robust feedback sensation while typing or gaming, the longer travel distance of the Cabbage Tofu would likely be more appealing. On the other hand, if you prefer a swifter action with less key travel, the Lotus would be the better choice. Thus, the KTT Cabbage Tofu is the longer switch, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is the shorter one.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch is quite distinctive, characterized by a clacky and high-pitched resonance, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. This combination results in a sharp, crisp, and percussive auditory experience, perfect for those who appreciate a bright and lively sound when typing. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch, on the other hand, is noted for its bright, resonant sound that enhances the overall user experience. While the specifics of its sound are not detailed, the super bouncy feeling of the switch suggests that it, too, offers a satisfying auditory feedback, albeit possibly in a different pitch or resonance. Ultimately, both switches provide an enjoyable sound experience, though the Cabbage Tofu may cater more to those who prefer a clackier tone.

When it comes to feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch stands out with descriptors such as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy. These attributes combined offer a smooth, buttery typing experience that minimizes resistance and friction, allowing for seamless transitions between strokes. The longer 22mm spring contributes to this 'snappy' sensation, enhancing the responsiveness of each keystroke. However, the specifics regarding the feel of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch are not provided, which leaves an unknown in comparison. A medium-heavy weight of 62.5g hints that it likely provides a substantial and enjoyable typing experience, but without further details, its textural feedback remains less defined.

In summary, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switches present unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cabbage Tofu excels with its clacky sound and exceptionally smooth feel, designed for those who revel in a tactile yet swift typing experience. The Lotus (Heavy), while offering a bright sound and super bouncy feel, lacks specific descriptors, leaving some aspects unknown. For users who appreciate auditory feedback and responsive tactile sensations, both options promise a delightful typing experience, albeit with different auditory characteristics and tactile sensations.

Conclusion

To wrap up, choosing between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you favor a lighter actuation force with quick responsiveness, the Cabbage Tofu is an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams allows for swift typing, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or fast-paced gaming where rapid keystrokes are essential. The clacky and high-pitched sound profile, along with its creamy and polished feel, provides a smooth and satisfying experience that enhances both functional typing and casual use. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust typing experience with a medium bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) might be your go-to. Its heavier weight contributes to a more deliberate keystroke, making it suitable for those who enjoy a bouncier feel and want tactile feedback, particularly in environments where precise inputs are crucial. The bright, resonant sound adds to the enjoyment of each keystroke, making it feel more impactful. Thus, consider your typing style and the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard as you decide between these two distinctive switches.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn more

HMX Lotus (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more