KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Gateron Luciola

Overview

The KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Luciola are both mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and benefits. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring. This results in a swift rebound after actuation, allowing for a quicker transition between keystrokes. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch emits a distinct sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, offering a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola switch grabs attention with its glowing capabilities in the dark, making it a visually appealing choice. Beyond their general characteristics, let's dive deeper into the specific qualities of each switch to help you decide which one is the best fit for your needs.

By the numbers

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

Gateron Luciola Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing material of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Luciola differ in several aspects. The Cabbage Tofu features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting. In contrast, the Luciola utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing. While it also produces a pointed and high-pitched sound, it is described as not overly sharp and clacky. This indicates a slightly different sound profile compared to the Cabbage Tofu.

In terms of bottom housing, the Cabbage Tofu utilizes a nylon material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Luciola incorporates a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing. This blend also contributes to a pointed and high-pitched sound, described as clacky. Therefore, both switches share a similar profile in terms of bottom housing.

Given the differences between the top and bottom housings on each switch, pressing down on the Cabbage Tofu will predominantly emphasize the qualities of its nylon bottom housing. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel will be greatly influenced by the nylon material. Conversely, when releasing a key, the impact will primarily come from the top housing. For the Luciola, the same principle applies. The INK blend bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the proprietary blend top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. In both switches, the interaction between the top and bottom housings plays a significant role in determining the overall typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The actuation force of the Cabbage Tofu is 45 grams, which is lighter than the Luciola's 55 grams. This means that the Cabbage Tofu requires less force to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Cabbage Tofu is 53 grams, which is lighter than the Luciola's 60 grams. This indicates that the Cabbage Tofu provides a lighter and potentially smoother typing experience, as it requires less force to press the keys fully. On the other hand, the Luciola offers a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Cabbage Tofu make it suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter and more effortless typing experience for extended periods of time, such as in a work or gaming setting. However, it is important to note that both switches fall within the medium range, so regardless of which one is chosen, users can expect similar results in terms of the force required to trigger keystrokes and fully press the keys.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is 4.0 mm, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Luciola has a slightly shorter distance compared to the Cabbage Tofu. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Cabbage Tofu is more traditional, while the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Luciola is considered to be on the shallower side. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances. In this case, the Luciola would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances too abrupt and prefer a deeper key press. For those who prefer a more substantial feel, the Cabbage Tofu's longer travel distance would be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and whether one prefers a shorter or longer travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Luciola switches share the descriptor of "clacky," which means they produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The Cabbage Tofu switch is also described as high-pitched, resulting in a sharp and crisp sound. On the other hand, the Luciola switch has a unique chirpy characteristic, adding a little squeak to the sound profile. Additionally, the Luciola switch is described as marbly, which means it has a resonant, high-pitched, and clean sound, similar to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or two billiard balls colliding. Overall, both switches offer distinctive sound profiles, with the Cabbage Tofu leaning towards high-pitched and the Luciola bringing in some chirpy and marbly elements.

In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as creamy, which indicates a smooth and buttery typing experience. The switch is factory-lubricated, resulting in a silky sensation when typing, as if gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. It is also mentioned as polished, indicating a refined finish that reduces friction and provides a sleek typing experience. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch is known for its snappy characteristic, thanks to its longer 22mm spring, which adds responsiveness to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Luciola switch also possesses snappy and polished qualities, contributing to a super responsive and smooth typing experience. It is also described as buttery, emphasizing the seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation it offers. Overall, both switches provide smooth and responsive typing experiences, with the Cabbage Tofu having a touch of creamy smoothness and the Luciola leaning towards a buttery feel.

Considering all the available information, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Gateron Luciola switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cabbage Tofu switch provides a clacky, high-pitched sound and a creamy, polished, and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Luciola switch presents a clacky sound with chirpy and marbly accents. It also delivers a snappy, polished, and buttery typing feel. While their sound and feel features differ, both switches prioritize responsiveness and smoothness in typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences regarding sound profiles and tactile sensations during typing. However, it is worth noting that using them in combination with specific keyboards and keycaps can further influence the overall sound and feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, there are a few factors to consider. If you prioritize a swift rebound after actuation and a quicker transition between keystrokes, the Cabbage Tofu is the better choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, this switch will provide the crisp and percussive sound you're looking for. On the other hand, if you're more interested in eye-catching switches that glow in the dark and offer a smooth and bouncy typing feel, the Luciola is the way to go. Along with its medium heft and a sound profile resembling a can of spray paint being shaken, the Luciola will provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your specific preferences for feel and sound, so take these factors into account before making your choice.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more