KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring which ensures a swift rebound after actuation for quick transitions between keystrokes. Typists using this switch may enjoy a sound profile akin to Mahjong tiles colliding, with characteristics described as 'clacky,' 'creamy,' 'high-pitched,' 'polished,' 'silky,' and 'snappy.' On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) from Gateron is praised for its smooth and affordable typing experience, offering buttery smooth keystrokes with a pleasing, low-pitched "thock" sound. This budget-friendly linear switch is categorized as 'buttery,' 'bassy,' 'thocky,' and 'low-pitched.' Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for various typing styles and preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
52g
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
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), one key difference is the top housing material. The Cabbage Tofu utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition. This contrast in top housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound produced by the switches.
Another point of comparison between the two switches is the bottom housing material. Both the Cabbage Tofu and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. This similarity in bottom housing materials may lead to a comparable typing experience in terms of sound profile and overall feel, despite the differences in their respective top housing materials.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and tactile experience of mechanical keyboards. While the Cabbage Tofu and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) have different top housing materials (polycarbonate vs. nylon), their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing results in a similar sound profile characterized by deeper tones and fuller sound. Understanding how these materials interact with each other can help keyboard enthusiasts choose switches that align with their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we can see that both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams, providing a light and responsive typing experience. However, the Cabbage Tofu has a slightly higher bottom out force of 53 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's 52 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-light category, offering a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Milky Red Pro may be the better choice, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Cabbage Tofu could appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel distance with both switches. In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offer the same travel distance, providing users with a familiar feel regardless of which switch they choose for their keyboard.
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 Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, creating a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch provides a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound, offering a deeper, richer tone with a satisfying thud or knock when the key is pressed and released. Both switches produce distinct sounds that cater to different preferences, with the Cabbage Tofu providing a sharper sound and the Milky Red Pro offering a smoother, bass-heavy tone.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is described as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Typists can expect a silky sensation when typing on these switches, gliding their fingers across the keys with ease. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is characterized as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Cabbage Tofu emphasizing smoothness and responsiveness, while the Milky Red Pro focuses on providing a buttery and consistent feel.
Overall, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The Cabbage Tofu switch is best suited for those who prefer a clacky, high-pitched sound with a creamy and snappy typing feel, while the Milky Red Pro switch is ideal for individuals looking for a bassy, thocky sound with a buttery and polished typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users can find the switch that best suits their needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value improved tactility with a swift rebound after actuation and a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, the Cabbage Tofu may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a pleasing low-pitched “thock” sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a clacky, high-pitched sound with a creamy, polished feel or a bassy, thocky, low-pitched sound with a buttery sensation. Consider these factors carefully to choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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