KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Cherry MX Silent Red mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Cabbage Tofu switch is known for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring that allows for a swift rebound after actuation. This results in a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy'. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red offers a similar typing experience to the classic MX Red switch but with the added benefit of operating silently, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Its sound profile is categorized as 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured'. While both switches have their own strengths and appeal, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 Cherry MX Silent Red, there are noticeable differences in the sound profiles they produce. The Cabbage Tofu's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, due to its relatively stiff nature, while the MX Silent Red's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic. In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate top housing of the Cabbage Tofu allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, which leads to a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate used in the top housing of the Cabbage Tofu. This split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches impacts the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Ultimately, while the Cabbage Tofu and Cherry MX Silent Red have differing top housing materials, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Cabbage Tofu creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the softer nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red produces a deeper and fuller sound. These differences in housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and sound characteristics of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches have an equal actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Cabbage Tofu has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams, while the bottom out force of the MX Silent Red is unknown. The Cabbage Tofu can be considered medium-light in terms of force required to push the key down, whereas the MX Silent Red's bottom out force remains a mystery. This information suggests that the Cabbage Tofu offers a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the MX Silent Red. It is important to note that the weight of the switch can impact typing comfort and endurance, as some may prefer a lighter touch for prolonged use while others may prefer a heavier feel for increased tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, we can see that the Cabbage Tofu has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the MX Silent Red's 3.7 mm. This means that the Cabbage Tofu will require a slightly deeper press to actuate compared to the MX Silent Red. In terms of preference, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the MX Silent Red more suitable for quicker response times, especially for gaming. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Cabbage Tofu may provide a more deliberate and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses. Overall, both switches offer a different feel and response due to their travel distances, catering to individual preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, providing a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch delivers a muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound, significantly quieter than traditional mechanical switches, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. The Cabbage Tofu switch will provide a more lively and crisp sound, while the MX Silent Red switch offers a deep and rich sound with minimal noise.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch is described as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with enhanced responsiveness. Conversely, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is noted for its textured feel, providing noticeable friction when pressed, which may appeal to users who prefer a bit of resistance in their keystrokes. The Cabbage Tofu switch will offer a silky smooth typing feel with effortless keystrokes, while the MX Silent Red switch may provide a more tactile and textured typing experience.
Overall, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cabbage Tofu switch excels in providing a lively and sharp sound profile with a creamy and responsive typing feel, ideal for those who prioritize tactility and responsiveness. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red switch stands out for its quiet operation and textured feel, making it a great choice for those seeking a quieter typing experience with a bit of resistance. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so selecting between them will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch or the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, you should take into account your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a switch with improved tactility, swift rebound, and a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, the Cabbage Tofu may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent typing experience with a slightly heftier feel, the MX Silent Red switch would be more suitable, offering a quieter sound profile with a muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience. Choose wisely based on what fits your needs best.
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