KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the KTT Cabbage Tofu, a linear switch that brings improved tactility and responsiveness to the table. With a lengthened 22mm spring, typists will appreciate the swift rebound after actuation, allowing for a seamless transition between keystrokes. When using the Cabbage Tofu switch, the sound profile is reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, giving it a unique clacky, creamy, high-pitched, polished, silky, and snappy feel. On the other hand, we have the Cherry MX Black, a linear switch renowned for its perfection. Cherry has taken their iconic MX Black switches to the next level with the introduction of Hyperglide tooling, providing a classic textured smoothness. Typing on the MX Black switches offers a familiar deep sound profile, complemented by its low-pitched, textured, and stiff characteristics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Cherry MX Black switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches have a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's ability to absorb sound results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either the Cabbage Tofu or the MX Black.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Cabbage Tofu features a polycarbonate material, while the MX Black uses nylon. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its translucency makes it particularly suitable for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the MX Black elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect different sound characteristics when pressing and releasing keys on these switches.
It's important to note that the qualities each housing material brings to the switch will be split between the top and the bottom housing. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, which users will experience when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing, whether polycarbonate or nylon, will have a more significant influence on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction allows users to have different sensory experiences depending on the switch they choose, be it the Cabbage Tofu or the MX Black.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, several differences can be observed. Firstly, in terms of weight, the Cabbage Tofu is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, whereas the MX Black is heavier, requiring an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cabbage Tofu would be a suitable choice. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for typing for longer periods without causing excessive strain or fatigue. This lighter weight may make it an appealing option for individuals using the keyboard for work purposes or engaging in extended gaming sessions.
On the other hand, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the MX Black would be a better fit. With its higher actuation and bottom out forces, the MX Black provides a more tactile and forceful keystroke, giving users a sense of satisfaction and a more pronounced feedback while typing.
While the two switches differ in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, individuals looking for similar results can achieve this by selecting the Cabbage Tofu with its medium-light weight. While not identical, the slightly lighter actuation force of the Cabbage Tofu may provide a comparable typing experience to the MX Black for those who prefer a lighter touch.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Cherry MX Black will depend on individual preferences and typing styles. Whether one prioritizes a lighter or stronger push feel, both switches offer options that cater to different user preferences.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same 4 mm distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a clacky sound profile, reminiscent of the sharp and snappy sound of Mahjong tiles colliding. This makes for a crisp, bright, and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch delivers a low-pitched sound, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. While both switches have distinct sound profiles, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch provides a creamy and polished typing experience. With a smooth and buttery sensation, these switches make it feel like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, thanks to the lubricant applied at the factory and possibly specific materials used. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as snappy, indicating its super responsiveness, likely due to its lengthened 22mm spring. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch offers a textured feel, which means it has noticeable friction when pressed. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother typing experience. Furthermore, the MX Black switch is described as stiff, requiring more force to actuate and bottom-out.
Considering all the available information, it's clear that the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch have their own unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cabbage Tofu switch provides a clacky sound profile and a creamy, polished feel, offering smoothness and responsiveness. In contrast, the MX Black switch offers a low-pitched sound profile and a textured, stiff feel. Depending on personal preferences, typists can choose between the sharper and snappier experience of the Cabbage Tofu or the bass-heavy and mellow typing of the MX Black. It's important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen, as they can also affect the overall sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-light switch with improved tactility and swift rebound after actuation, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which can be crisp and bright. In terms of feel, it provides a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy experience, with smooth and buttery typing, reduced friction, and minimal resistance.
On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a classic textured smoothness, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is a reliable option. It produces a familiar deep sound profile, with a low-pitched tone that is bass-heavy and mellow. The MX Black offers a textured feel, with noticeable friction when pressed, and requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Cherry MX Black linear switches comes down to personal preference. Consider your desired level of force, sound profile, and key feel when making your decision. Experimenting with different switches can help you find the perfect fit for your typing style and preferences. In the end, both switches have their own unique qualities and can provide an enjoyable typing experience.
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