KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the vast world of mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Mountain Top stand out as popular linear options with unique characteristics. The Cabbage Tofu switch is praised for its enhanced tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring which allows for a swift rebound after actuation, resulting in quick transitions between keystrokes. Typists will also appreciate the sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu, described as reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top is designed with office settings in mind, offering a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience perfect for professional environments. With a balanced sound signature and comfortably light actuation, these switches prioritize discreet and continuous typing. While the Cabbage Tofu is known for being clacky and high-pitched, the Gateron Mountain Top is characterized as bouncy and easy-to-press. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Mountain Top, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer nature which absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to stiffer plastics. However, where they differ is in the top housing material. The Cabbage Tofu utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Mountain Top uses nylon for its top housing, which also contributes to a deeper sound profile, but with a different tonality compared to polycarbonate.
Interestingly, the housing materials of the Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Mountain Top demonstrate how the choice of material can impact the sound and feel of mechanical switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Cabbage Tofu produces a clear and resonant sound profile, particularly suitable for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Mountain Top generates a fuller and deeper sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. While both materials offer their unique characteristics, users may prefer one over the other based on their sound preferences and typing experience.
In terms of construction, the Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Mountain Top showcase how different housing materials can affect the overall typing experience. The split between the bottom and top housing materials means that the qualities of each material impact different aspects of the switch's sound and feel. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. This division illustrates how housing materials can work together to create a well-rounded typing experience, catering to different preferences and sound profiles.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, the Cabbage Tofu is slightly heavier than the Mountain Top. The Cabbage Tofu has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Mountain Top has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a relatively light typing experience compared to other options on the market. The lighter actuation force of the Mountain Top may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while the slightly heavier Cabbage Tofu may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference in terms of typing experience and comfort.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Cabbage Tofu is longer than the Mountain Top. The Cabbage Tofu's 4 mm travel distance offers a more traditional key press experience, while the Mountain Top's 3.4 mm travel distance provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Mountain Top, while those who enjoy a deeper key press experience may lean towards the Cabbage Tofu. However, both switches offer similar results in terms of overall performance and typing 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 Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes, with a moderate actuation force requirement. Whether you prefer a more crisp and bright sound like the Cabbage Tofu or a more subdued and quiet typing experience like the Mountain Top will depend on your personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is known for offering a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. The switches provide a smooth and buttery sensation when typing, with reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle, offering a spring-like feedback sensation with gentle resistance during key presses. Whether you prefer a more responsive and lively typing experience like the Cabbage Tofu or a gentle and low-impact typing feel like the Mountain Top will depend on your typing style and preferences.
Overall, while the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches aim to provide a satisfying and comfortable typing experience. Whether you prefer the sharp and snappy sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu or the quiet and moderate sound profile of the Mountain Top, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference, typing habits, and the overall setup of your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch or the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, you should base your decision on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize tactile feedback and a swift rebound after actuation, along with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Cabbage Tofu switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value discretion, a quiet typing experience, and a bouncy or easy-to-press feel, the Gateron Mountain Top switch might better suit your requirements. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on what you prioritize in terms of typing experience and sound profile.
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