KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Miaowu mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring that provides a swift rebound after actuation. This results in a quicker transition between keystrokes and a distinct sound profile akin to Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Miaowu switch showcases enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, utilizing POK in its stem for a different typing experience. While the Cabbage Tofu is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy', the Miaowu is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and typing needs. 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
43g
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
POK
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Miaowu are quite similar, with both models featuring polycarbonate top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the Cabbage Tofu and Miaowu differ in their bottom housing material. The Cabbage Tofu utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Miaowu also uses nylon for its bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a focus on creating a rounder and duller sound.
While both the Cabbage Tofu and the Miaowu share the same polycarbonate top housing, their differences lie in the material of their bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Cabbage Tofu creates a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a distinct tactile feel when pressing down on the switch. In contrast, the Miaowu's nylon bottom housing offers a similar typing experience, emphasizing a duller and rounder sound profile that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing material results in a varying sound and tactile feedback, showcasing how the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience.
Overall, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Miaowu incorporate polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a clear and resonant sound profile, particularly suitable for switches planning to use RGB lighting. While the models differ in their bottom housing material, with the Cabbage Tofu featuring nylon and the Miaowu also opting for the same material, this distinction results in unique typing experiences. The different bottom housing materials contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile for the Cabbage Tofu and a rounder and duller sound for the Miaowu, showcasing how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is evident that the Miaowu is the lighter option with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Cabbage Tofu is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. The Cabbage Tofu provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Miaowu offers a lighter touch. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, making them ideal for fast and consistent typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference, with some favoring the lighter touch of the Miaowu for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier feel of the Cabbage Tofu for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Miaowu switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Cabbage Tofu switch. The Cabbage Tofu with its 4 mm travel distance offers a more traditional key press feel, whereas the Miaowu with its 3.5 mm travel distance provides a shallower and potentially quicker key press response. Gamers may prefer the Miaowu switch for its shorter travel distance and faster response time, while others may prefer the Cabbage Tofu switch for its deeper key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and desired key press experience.
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 KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and KTT Miaowu switches are described as "clacky," producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. However, the Cabbage Tofu switch also has a high-pitched sound profile, adding a bit more brightness to the keystrokes. Keep in mind that the overall sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors like keyboard construction and keycaps.
Moving onto the feel of the switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu is lauded for its "creamy," "polished," "silky," and "snappy" typing experience. This indicates a smooth and buttery sensation when typing, with reduced friction and a responsive feel. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu switch is described as "bouncy," offering a spring-like feedback that creates a lively sensation when typing.
In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and KTT Miaowu linear switches both have their unique strengths in terms of sound and feel. While the Cabbage Tofu boasts a high-pitched sound profile and a creamy, polished typing experience, the Miaowu provides a bouncy feedback sensation for a more lively feel. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, you can achieve similar results with either switch by considering factors like keyboard setup and keycap choice. As an expert in mechanical keyboard switches, I recommend trying out both switches to determine which aligns best with your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch or the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a swift rebound after actuation, along with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, then the Cabbage Tofu switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, enhanced stem stability, and a smoother keystroke action with a clacky sound profile, then the Miaowu switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
Mentioned in this article
