KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Melodic. The Cabbage Tofu is a linear switch renowned for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring that provides a swift rebound after actuation. Typists will appreciate the smooth transition between keystrokes and the sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic stands out in the clicky switch category by combining smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems to deliver a classic clicky sound with tactile feedback and smoothness. While the Cabbage Tofu is known for being clacky, creamy, and high-pitched, the Melodic is described as buttery, resonant, invigorating, and crunchy. Each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, making it essential to dive deeper beyond generalities to determine the best switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Melodic both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing, creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiff plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. The similarities in their top housing material suggest that users can expect similar sound qualities and aesthetics from both switches.
On the other hand, the KTT Cabbage Tofu features a nylon bottom housing, while the Gateron Melodic also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience compared to switches with polycarbonate bottom housings. Despite their similar bottom housing material, slight variations in sound and feel may still be present due to other factors at play in the switches' design.
When considering the overall typing experience of both switches, it's important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials will influence different aspects of the sound and feel. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. As such, users may notice nuanced differences in typing feel and sound between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Melodic, even though they both share similar housing materials in certain aspects.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is clear that the Cabbage Tofu is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Melodic is the heavier option with a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Cabbage Tofu provides a medium-light feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Melodic offers a more substantial typing experience with its medium-bottom out force, which some users may find more satisfying. While the actuation force of the Melodic is unlisted, it can be assumed that both switches would provide similar results for users looking for a responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference for weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that you will get similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. In terms of travel distance, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, making them equally matched in this aspect. The consistency in the travel distance of both switches can contribute to a similar typing experience for users who prefer either linear or clicky switches.
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 Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Cabbage Tofu linear switch is known for producing a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy sound, akin to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound, with the Cabbage Tofu providing a sharp and snappy sound, while the Melodic offers a clean and sharp auditory experience.
Moving on to the feel, the Cabbage Tofu linear switch is known for its creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. The switches are designed to offer a smooth and buttery typing sensation, allowing users to effortlessly glide their fingers across the keys with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is described as buttery and invigorating, offering a pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. Both switches provide a unique typing experience tailored to different tactile preferences.
In conclusion, the Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles to cater to varying user preferences. While the Cabbage Tofu switch excels in providing a clacky and high-pitched sound along with a creamy and snappy typing experience, the Gateron Melodic switch delivers a resonant and crunchy sound with a buttery and invigorating feel. Depending on whether you prefer a sharp and snappy sound with a smooth typing experience or a clean and sharp sound with pronounced feedback, you can choose the switch that best suits your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that will enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth, buttery typing experience with a swift rebound after actuation, opt for the Cabbage Tofu. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium bottom out force, a classic clicky sound with dual-railed stems for smoothness, and a pronounced feedback for an immersive typing sensation, go for the Gateron Melodic. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should align with your typing style and the overall experience you seek in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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