KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Durock Mamba

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Durock Mamba. The Cabbage Tofu switch is renowned for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring. Typists will appreciate the swift rebound after actuation, allowing for a quicker transition between keystrokes. Additionally, the sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu switch is often compared to the satisfying sound of Mahjong tiles colliding, offering a clacky, creamy, high-pitched, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switch pays homage to the late Kobe Bryant and offers a fantastic linear typing experience. Users will notice a gliding sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience while using these switches. The sound profile of the Mamba switch is categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.

By the numbers

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

Durock Mamba Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Durock Mamba showcase distinct differences in terms of sound profiles and aesthetics. The Cabbage Tofu utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This material is also translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Mamba features a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its top housing, resulting in a pleasant sound profile that leans towards the brighter side. While both materials offer different sound characteristics, they both aim to enhance the overall auditory experience when typing.

Moving onto the bottom housing, the Cabbage Tofu makes use of nylon, a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Mamba utilizes POM as its bottom housing, offering a completely different sound profile. POM housings produce a pleasing deeper sound that is relatively more muted. Thus, the bottom housing of each switch plays a crucial role in determining the final sound experience.

It is important to note that when a switch uses different housing materials for the top and bottom, each material brings its unique qualities to the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, are more noticeable when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing makes a greater impact on the sound emitted when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both the Cabbage Tofu and the Mamba housing materials strive to enhance the overall sound quality and feel of the switch.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Cabbage Tofu has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a medium-light touch to trigger a keystroke, while the Mamba's actuation force is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Cabbage Tofu requires 53 grams of force to fully press down, which again falls into the medium-light category. The Mamba, on the other hand, has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which leans towards the medium range.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cabbage Tofu would be a suitable choice as its actuation and bottom out forces are relatively lower. This can be beneficial for extended typing sessions at work or during lengthy gaming sessions. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and prefer a stronger push, the Mamba provides a slightly heavier bottom out force. This can result in a more tactile and satisfying keystroke experience.

It should be noted that although the actuation force for the Mamba is unavailable, if it is similar to the bottom out force of 60 grams, then the typing experience would be quite similar to that of the Cabbage Tofu. Regardless, the Cabbage Tofu can be considered the lighter option, while the Mamba can be seen as the slightly heavier alternative. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches have a relatively short travel distance compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Durock Mamba with its 3.5 mm travel distance may be the better option for you. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. In that case, the KTT Cabbage Tofu, with its slightly longer 4 mm travel distance, would provide a deeper and more satisfying key press experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch offers a clacky and high-pitched profile. These switches produce a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switch has a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound. This makes it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist. Additionally, the Mamba switch is described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, if you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Cabbage Tofu switch would be a great choice, while the Mamba switch offers a more neutral and thocky sound experience.

In terms of feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch offers a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. These switches provide a smooth and buttery sensation, gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys with each keystroke. This can be attributed to the lubricant applied in the switch at the factory or specific materials used. Additionally, the snappy characteristic of the Cabbage Tofu switch contributes to its overall responsive and lively feel. Conversely, the Durock Mamba switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. It provides a gentler typing sensation compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Similar to the Cabbage Tofu switch, the Mamba switch also features a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience, albeit with different levels of tactile feedback. If you prefer a creamy and snappy feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch would be a suitable choice, while the Mamba switch offers a mild and polished typing experience.

In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is best known for its improved tactility, swift rebound, clacky and high-pitched sound profile, and creamy, polished, and silky feel. It offers a unique typing experience with its snappy and buttery characteristics. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch is a tribute to Kobe Bryant and provides a gliding typing sensation with a rich and creamy auditory experience. It has a more neutral sound profile, thocky characteristic, and a mild and polished feel. While both switches offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel, they provide a smooth and refined typing experience that is dependent on personal preference. If you are looking for a sharper and more lively experience, the Cabbage Tofu switch would suit you, whereas the Mamba switch offers a milder and all-around dependable option.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a swift rebound after actuation and a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is the way to go. With its lengthened 22mm spring, you will experience a quicker transition between keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience, the Durock Mamba linear switch is the better choice. Additionally, if you appreciate a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Cabbage Tofu switch fits the bill. Conversely, if you prefer a neutral sound with a thocky characteristic, the Mamba switch provides a pleasing auditory experience. When it comes to feel, the Cabbage Tofu offers a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, while the Mamba switch provides a milder and polished feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as well as the specific typing experience you desire.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn more

Durock Mamba Linear

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

Learn more